Borel Park

Woodland Oasis

Tucked away at the corner of Barneson and Shafter streets in San Mateo, California, Borel Park is a cozy 1.15-acre green haven right next to Borel Middle School. This small retreat is actually quite new to the neighborhood - it opened in late August 2022, making it the first fresh park space San Mateo had seen since the early 2000s. What was once just an underused corner lot has transformed into a peaceful retreat, although you might find it buzzing with students during school drop-off and pick-up times.

Natural Environment

The designers really leaned into a woodland theme here, working with what nature already provided. We love that they kept the mature trees intact - they offer natural shade and give the park an established feel despite its youth.

The new plantings blend seamlessly with the existing greenery, creating a cohesive natural space. Just a heads up: the park can get a bit breezy, so you might want to bring a jacket, especially when the temperature drops.

Play Areas

Kids have plenty to enjoy at Borel Park. There are two separate play zones - one designed for the 2-5 years crowd and another for children 5-12 years old.

Both areas feature impressive climbing structures and slides, plus there's a merry-go-round that tends to be a hit with the younger visitors. If you have toddlers or preschoolers, the park is particularly suitable for the under-5 set, with play equipment that's appropriately sized for their abilities.

Accessibility and Amenities

Getting around Borel Park is easy with the ADA-compliant pathways that meander through the space. Along your stroll, you'll come across oversized Adirondack chairs - perfect spots to relax while keeping an eye on playing children or just soaking in some nature.

The park offers two grassy areas where you can toss a ball around or simply sprawl out with a book, plus some picnic tables for when you want to enjoy a meal outdoors. One thing to note: there aren't any public restrooms here, so plan accordingly if you're thinking of a longer visit.

Community Connection

Borel Park provides a space for recreation, socializing, and connecting with nature. The location beside Borel Middle School is particularly convenient for families with school-aged kids.

While it's not the largest park around, Borel offers well-maintained grounds and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a good spot for a quick nature break or a peaceful place to unwind.