Recreation Services and Programs

Links

EBparks Online: Browse classes and activities online, or register online
Program Guides: To read about current Recreation classes, download the current
guide:; > Mar. - Apr. 2010
Regional in Nature: Download the RIN in
Acrobat PDF format
Contact Us: For custom
tailored programs,
or general questions about Recreation Programs, please contact us by e-mail HERE

The Recreation Services Unit provides resources and services that are consistent with the District mission and that appeal to diverse ages, abilities, cultures and economic backgrounds. We strive to be the public resource for learning and experiencing new outdoor-based recreational activities.

Free Outdoor Movie Nights
Special Interest Classes
Day Camps
Trails Challenge
Kids Challenge
Community Outreach Programs

Below, you will find a general listing of our programs. For information on current class times, fees, and locations, please visit EBParksOnline

FREE Outdoor Movie Nights

FREE outdoor movies are shown in various parks throughout the summer. All movies shown on our giant outdoor screen are G or PG rated. Come early to secure a seat and join the pre-movie activities. Movie begins at sunset. We suggest participants bring warm layers, flashlights, chairs, and snacks. Parking fees may apply. No pets allowed. Rain will cancel.

Special Interest Classes

Archery
An introduction to archery is taught by Redwood Bowmen Association in beautiful Roberts Regional Park in Oakland. Topics covered include recreational archery, safety and terminology followed by hands-on practice out on the range.

Biking
Our new Biking and Birding the Bay Series programs include a naturalist-led bike ride; bike clinic focusing on gear, ethics and safety; and a BBQ lunch. Come explore the shorelines of various parks!

Boating/Kayaking
We offer a variety of kayaking programs for all ages, from skill-building to nature tours, taught by certified instructors. All classes include instruction on basic paddling techniques and are offered at various parks throughout the District.

Camping/Backpacking
Explore remote areas of the East Bay hills! Experienced recreation staff and Park naturalists lead the hikes and teach you the basics of this challenging, yet rewarding activity. No experience necessary.

Fishing
Beginning anglers can learn the basics of trout fishing, cat-fishing, bass fishing, or fly-casting at various District lakes or piers. Courses include instruction on fish habitat and ecology, knot tying, rigging, casting and gear selection.

Float Tube Fishing is designed for the intermediate to advanced angler, however, beginners are also welcome. This popular class includes on-land instruction followed by instructor-guided fishing on the water.

Golf
An Introduction to Golf class is taught at Tilden Golf Course, Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley. Learn pre-shot and full-swing fundamentals, and become familiar with terminology and equipment.

Hiking
Experience the wonderful world of llama packing! Take a turn leading a llama and learn about handling, caring for, and packing with them. Llamas carry your lunch while you hike in Redwood Regional Park in Oakland.

Nature Exploration
Become a modern day treasure hunter with your family and friends in our GPS Scavenger Hunt class! Use a GPS unit while hiking on the pre-set route of your choice. Learn about nature including, plants, flowers, animals, rocks and history. Courses are held in various District parks.

Pet Programs
Our Pet First Aid/CPR class focuses on how to save a pet’s life during an emergency, minimize a pet’s trauma after injury, and safely transport an injured pet to the veterinary clinic, and more! Classes are held at Lake Chabot Regional Park in Castro Valley.

Wilderness Skills
Learn about Basic Land Navigation while using a map and compass for on-trail navigation or if traveling to a desolate location. No experience in the outdoors is necessary. Classes held at various District parks.

Day Camps

Park’n It Summer Day Camp
Our dedicated staff lead children on park explorations including swimming, fishing, hiking, arts & crafts, games, and more! Extended child-care available. Week-long camps offered at various parks. Ask about our family discount (not available online).

Leaders in Training
This program is designed to give teens an opportunity to learn what it takes to be a Recreation Leader (camp counselor). They receive hands-on training while assisting our camp staff during Park’n It Summer Day Camp.

Day Camp Operators
Both for-profit and non-profit day camps must have a permit in order to operate in the East Bay Regional Park District. Please visit our Permit Page for more information.

Trails Challenge

This annual program challenges participants to hike 5 of the 20 trails, or 26.2 miles, listed in the Trails Challenge guidebook by December 1 and receive a Trails Challenge commemorative pin. For special online registration through the Regional Parks Foundation, click HERE.

Kids Challenge

This annual program is for children ages 17 and under. Our Kids Challenge guidebook is filled with 10 fun activities and one bonus trip for kids in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service. Take this great opportunity to experience the Regional Parks with your child(ren) through hiking, camping, swimming, and more!

Community Outreach Programs

Day Camp Partnerships
Our Park’n It Day Camp teams up with local schools and service providers for a week-long summer day camp experience in the Regional Parks. Kids enjoy activities including, boating, hiking, interpretive programs, arts & crafts, and more, all while learning about the natural environment.

Current partnerships are:
• Bowmen Elementary, HUSD
• Cambridge Elementary, MDUSD
• Downer Elementary, WCCUSD
• Family Support Services of the Bay Area

Overnight Camping Partnerships
Our Community Overnight Camping Program provides outdoor experiences to underserved populations. Through various activities, participants become more aware of their natural surroundings and of the benefits of outdoor recreation.

Current partnerships are:
• Family Support Services of the Bay Area
• City of Oakland Parks & Recreation Inclusion Program
• Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Programs (BORP)
• Lincoln Childcare Center
• Youth Enrichment Strategies

Our Community Outreach program activities support the California Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights. Funding support is made possible by the Regional Parks Foundation. Outreach is focused on schools with 90% or higher kids on lunch assistance programs as well as non-profit community organizations that exclusively serve underserved populations.