East Avenue Park

Natural Setting

Located in Hayward, this nearly 27-acre urban retreat is a breath of fresh air with its rolling hills and scattered trees. It's actually part of a 140-acre greenbelt - pretty impressive for a city park, right?

The gentle slopes around the park aren't just pretty to look at - they reward you with some expansive views of the surrounding area. Take a stroll along the hiking trails and you'll find yourself under the cooling shade of pines, cedars, and eucalyptus trees. You'll appreciate that natural canopy on those California sunny days.

Park Features

What gives this park its charm are the little natural touches - creeks trickling through and wooden bridges that make you feel like you've escaped the city entirely. There are steps carved right into the hillsides, making it easy to explore different parts of the park no matter your fitness level.

The open lawn areas are fantastic for whatever outdoor activity you're in the mood for - tossing a frisbee, having a picnic, or just sprawling out with a good book. The grassy area is expansive enough that you won't feel cramped, even on busier days.

If you're bringing kids along, the playground is a definite highlight with two separate play structures. The little ones have their own toddler-friendly area, while older kids can tackle the more challenging equipment. The bigger structure features a rock wall, rope ladder, big slide, and swings - enough to keep energetic kids entertained for hours.

Recreation and Amenities

Looking for an outdoor meal spot? The park has a nice picnicking and BBQ setup. You'll come across some picnic tables scattered around, but the open spaces are just as great for throwing down a blanket. There are BBQ grills available too, complete with designated boxes for disposing of hot charcoal safely.

Feel like exploring further? The park connects to a canyon with hiking trails that offer peaceful walks through more rugged terrain. It's a great way to access the broader trail network in the area without having to drive elsewhere.

Yes, there are restrooms available - they're those standard steel facilities you see in most H.A.R.D. (Hayward Area Recreation District) parks. Nothing fancy, but they're kept clean and do the job when nature calls.

Wildlife and Accessibility

Keep your eyes peeled while you're here - the park is home to various bird species, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some deer wandering through. It's these unexpected wildlife encounters that make visits here a bit more special.

Dog owners, you'll be happy to know this park is particularly dog-friendly. While there's no enclosed dog park area, there's plenty of space for your four-legged friends to explore, especially along those canyon trails.

Getting around is fairly easy thanks to ADA-compliant walkways across the park. There's parking available too, however on busy days it can fill up quickly.

Community Use

During summer months, the park hosts summer day camps for local kids. Programs like Camp Potowatami offer Thursday night skits and sleepovers that have become annual traditions for many families.

East Avenue Park offers a peaceful atmosphere. With well-maintained grounds and a quiet location, it's a nice place to escape the hustle and bustle without having to leave the city.