Public outdoor spaces in Upper Rockridge?
Hi there! We will be moving to Upper Rockridge and I’m hoping there are public outdoor spaces I’m just not finding in my research. In our current more central neighborhood our nanny takes our son for walks to nearby parks twice a day and is very concerned about the lack of sidewalks and the distance to Lake Temescal, which appears to be the closest park. Do kids ever go to the lawns of one of the schools or nearby churches for example? I know she is also concerned about social opportunities for her once shelter orders are lifted. Thank you!
May 25, 2020
Parent Replies
Hi there-this was our nannies concern also when we moved to UR from SF. I have to say it was a challenge and our nanny ended up driving a lot more to get to parks or kid activities. Families do use the public school's yard (Chabot) close to our house as a playground on the weekends. I am not sure about other schools/churches in UR. Chabot makes it a point to leave the yard open on the weekends for families so I think Hillcrest might do the same thing.
It really depends on where exactly you are in Upper Rockridge. If the nanny drives and you're close to Highway 13, the nanny can drive to Montclair Village that has lovely shops, park, library, etc. If you're closer to Chabot Elementary School, a short drive to Frog Park (under Highway 24) is a popular spot. Lake Temescal is nice, too. Most schools do not have lawns in Oakland, and those that do don't keep it green unless it's artificial turf. If you are close to where 24 meets 13 / Caldocott Tunnel, it's a very short drive to Tilden Park. If you are close to Moraga Ave. next to Piedmont, Draceana Park or Piedmont Park is also within a close driving distance.