Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt

History and Development

Tucked between the Temescal and Rockridge neighborhoods in Oakland lies a popular green oasis known as the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt - or as locals affectionately call it, Frog Park. This linear park stretches from Hudson Street to Clarke Street, running alongside Claremont Avenue, offering a refreshing break from the urban landscape.

The story of this space begins in the 1960s when Temescal Creek was channeled underground, leaving behind what would eventually become this treasured community resource. The park as we know it today started taking shape in 2001, thanks to the passionate efforts of Friends of the Rockridge-Temescal Greenbelt (FROG), a community volunteer group that continues to lovingly care for this special place.

Park Areas and Features

The greenbelt actually connects two older parks: Hardy Park at the northern end (nicknamed Big Frog) and Redondo Park to the south (affectionately called Little Frog). If you look closely, you'll notice the play structures have character - they were community-built during an impressive "Big Build" event in October 2001 when 1,300 volunteers rolled up their sleeves to create something special.

One of the park's most charming features is a reconstituted creek that meanders through the greenbelt. This thoughtful nod to the original Temescal Creek gets its water pumped up from the culvert below. During warmer months, parts of the creek are sometimes daylighted, creating a wonderful splashing spot for kids to cool off.

Throughout the park, you'll find artistic elements that reference the area's ecology and history, designed by Oakland artist Mark Brest Van Kempen - subtle reminders of the landscape's past life.

Playground Areas

The park has two distinct playground zones that work well for different age groups. Up north, you'll find a delightful old-school wooden playground that resembles a castle and train. With its nooks and crannies, this structure invites imagination and adventure while keeping safety in mind.

Head south and you'll find a more contemporary playground designed with younger children in mind, helpful if you're visiting with kids of different ages. The equipment includes slides, monkey bars, swings, and a spinning merry-go-round with a climbing gym that's popular with older kids.

There's also a sandbox that tends to be a hit with the little ones. Both playground areas are well-maintained and thoughtfully designed to spark creative play.

Recreation Facilities

Beyond the play structures, the park offers some solid recreational options. Basketball enthusiasts can shoot hoops on the court nestled under Highway 24. If you're bringing your four-legged friend along, you'll appreciate the Hardy Dog Park, a compact fenced area next to the modern playground where dogs can run free.

Scattered throughout the greenbelt are whimsical lily pad-shaped benches and tables - perfect spots to enjoy a picnic while keeping an eye on playing children. The generous grassy areas and the scenic walking trail that connects to the DMV provide ample space for family outings and casual strolls.

Art and Community Events

If you wander to the northern edge of the park under Highway 24, you'll come across the impressive 120-foot-long "Oceanus" mural. Originally painted in 1977 and lovingly restored in 2003, this artwork creates an underwater world populated with sea creatures and divers - a surprising burst of color in an unexpected place.

The park has a vibrant community life, hosting semi-annual clean-up events on Earth Day in April and Creek-to-Bay Day in September. Since 2006, Sunday mornings have seen the Temescal Farmers Market bring fresh produce and local goods to the adjacent DMV parking lot.

Visitor Information

You can find street parking along the park, however spaces can be limited, especially near the freeway section. The park is technically open 24 hours, but most families tend to visit during daylight hours.

While Highway 24 does create some background noise, it's remarkable how the park still manages to feel like a peaceful retreat from city life. Restrooms are available, however you might occasionally find them closed for maintenance.