Ellis Lake Park

Lake and Wildlife

Positioned in Concord, California, Ellis Lake Park is a 10-acre glimpse of tranquility south of Clayton Road and east of Ellis Street. At the heart of the park sits a peaceful lake that's home to various local wildlife. You'll spot Canadian geese gliding across the water, ducks paddling about, turtles sunning themselves on rocks, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the park's resident river otter. There's even a blind goose that locals have come to adore - a quirky character that adds to the park's charm.

The park offers gentle rolling lawns and a paved pathway that circles the lake, excellent for a leisurely stroll, morning jog, or casual bike ride. Neighborhood residents often use this path for their daily exercise routine. Just a heads-up though - with all those waterfowl around, you'll want to watch your step on those walkways!

Historical Elements

Beyond its natural appeal, Ellis Lake Park carries a piece of local history within its grounds. Standing proudly in the park is the Keller House, a historic building dating back to 1902.

What once served as part of a sprawling ranch owned by the Keller family in the late 1800s now brings the community together as a meeting space for various local agencies.

Family Amenities

If you're visiting with little ones, there's a playground area available. The fenced-in play sets within a gated enclosure offer parents peace of mind while kids burn off energy. The playground is especially well-suited for the under-5 crowd.

Throughout the park, you can find several spots to sit and take in the scenery, including a circular area that works well for small picnics or a quick snack. While some folks do enjoy their lunch here, keep in mind it might not be ideal for elaborate picnic spreads - those waterfowl can be rather curious about your food!

Recreation and Activities

Dog owners frequently make Ellis Lake Park part of their walking routine, but remember that all four-legged friends must stay on leash as per park rules.

The park's main draw is its simplicity - a place for walking, unwinding, and observing nature in action. Despite signs asking visitors not to feed the birds, you'll still see some folks tossing bread crumbs (though it's best not to join them). Nestled in the heart of Concord, this park offers a moment of calm amid the bustle of everyday life.

Park Guidelines

Ellis Lake Park welcomes visitors from 7AM to 7PM Monday and Wednesday through Sunday, with Tuesdays reserved for maintenance.

To protect the park's ecosystem, please don't hunt, disturb, harm, or feed the animals that call this place home.

Your dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times with a leash no longer than ten feet. Note that swimming, bathing, and wading are not permitted except in specifically designated areas and times.

One practical thing to remember - there are no public restrooms available at this park, so plan accordingly.