Ohlone Park
Ohlone Park Map
About Ohlone Park in Berkeley
Ohlone Park is a public linear park located in Berkeley, California, United States. The park stretches for five blocks along Hearst Avenue, from Sacramento Street on the west to Milvia Street on the east. It was developed on BART-owned property after the City of Berkeley decided to underground the BART tracks within the city limits.
The park's history dates back to the late 1960s when citizens began planting sod and trees on the vacant strip left after BART construction, initially dubbing it "People's Park Annex." After negotiations between the city and BART, the land was leased to Berkeley for one dollar per year. The park was officially dedicated on June 7, 1979, and named after the Ohlone people, the indigenous inhabitants of the area.
Ohlone Park spans approximately 9.8 acres and features a variety of recreational amenities. The park includes multiple play areas for children of different age groups, with both traditional and nature-inspired play structures. A large grassy field provides ample space for various activities and sports. The park also incorporates a community garden, allowing local residents to cultivate plants and vegetables.
One notable feature of Ohlone Park is its off-leash dog area, established in 1979. It is considered one of the first dog parks in the United States and has undergone renovations over the years to improve its facilities. The park also includes paved paths that are part of the Ohlone Greenway, making it popular among cyclists and pedestrians.
In the late 1990s, Native American artist Jean Lamarr designed and painted a mural on a large concrete vent within the park. The mural depicts the history of the Ohlone people, adding cultural significance and visual interest to the park.
Ohlone Park serves as a valuable green space in the heart of Berkeley, providing residents with opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and community gathering. Its linear design along Hearst Avenue makes it easily accessible to the surrounding neighborhoods and contributes to the city's network of open spaces.
