Montclair Park

A Piece of Oakland History

Montclair Park came to life with a helping hand from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) back in 1938-39. Covering 6.7 acres, this green space has been a favorite of Oakland locals for generations.

Shaded by towering redwoods and Monterey cypress trees, it offers a woodland-like atmosphere in the middle of the city.

Nature's Sanctuary

The park centers around a pond with a water feature. It's home to a lively community of ducks, geese, turtles, and colorful koi that glide beneath the surface. Walking paths encircle the water, good for a relaxing stroll while observing the pond's wildlife.

The pond has seen better days - overgrowth and litter have been ongoing challenges. Many regulars will tell you that a good restoration would breathe new life into this cherished feature.

The greenery and tall trees provide cool shade and a natural environment within Oakland.

Kid-Friendly Play Zones

The park has play areas for different age groups. There's a cozy tot lot where the little ones can toddle around, a playground for the 5-12 crowd, and - our personal favorite - a whimsical "Wild West" themed area complete with a Wells Fargo stagecoach play structure.

These play spaces got a safety upgrade in June 2022 with new, cushioned rubber mat surfaces. On sunny days, the playgrounds buzz with energy as families set up tents, creating an almost festival-like vibe.

Get Your Game On

Active types will appreciate the tennis courts (which double as pickleball courts - three reservable and one public), a baseball diamond, and basketball hoops on a half court. There's even a modest skate park with a half pipe for those looking to practice their tricks.

The open grassy areas are ideal for impromptu soccer matches, frisbee games, volleyball, or just spreading out a blanket for a lazy afternoon. Plus, the flat terrain makes getting around easy if you're dealing with mobility issues.

Picnic Area

Near the pond, there's a picnic area with grills under the trees. The space can accommodate several groups.

If you're planning a weekend gathering, you can reserve picnic tables on weekends and holidays (Memorial Day, July 4, and Labor Day) from 9 am to 7 pm. For weekday reservations, just reach out to the Montclair Recreation Center.

Community Hub

The Montclair Recreation Center in the park offers various programs for locals. While indoor activities have faced some limitations, the center typically runs after-school programs, summer camps, and seasonal activities like soccer camps for the tiny-tot crowd.

Good to Know

You'll find restrooms near the basketball court and half pipe. They're not exactly spa-quality, but they do the job and usually have toilet paper.

Fair warning: the park gets pretty packed on weekends, and parking can be a challenge. Dog lovers are welcome to bring their four-legged friends, but keep them leashed - there are busy streets nearby and plenty of children at play.

Finding Your Way

Tucked behind Highway 13 and right next to the Montclair shopping district, this park naturally draws in residents from the surrounding hills. Its location close to Montclair Elementary School and Montclair Village makes it easy to combine a park visit with shopping or grabbing a bite to eat nearby.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 10PM.