Quarry Lakes Regional Park

Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area is a 471-acre park located in Fremont, California. The park is part of the East Bay Regional Parks system and was developed on the site of former gravel quarries. The area's history dates back to the mid-19th century when gravel from the banks of Alameda Creek was used in the construction of the transcontinental railroad's western section.

The park features several lakes, including Horseshoe Lake and Rainbow Lake, which make up about 350 acres of the park's total area. These lakes, along with Willow Slough and Lago Los Osos, are interconnected by well-maintained walking trails. The lakes are used for various recreational activities and also serve as groundwater recharge basins managed by the Alameda County Water District.

Quarry Lakes offers a range of outdoor activities for visitors. The park includes a swimming area with a sandy beach at Horseshoe Lake, which is staffed by lifeguards during summer months. Fishing is permitted in designated areas, with anglers required to have a California fishing license and an East Bay Regional Park District fishing access permit. The park also provides opportunities for non-motorized boating, hiking, and biking.

The park's trail network connects to the Alameda Creek Regional Trail, extending from Niles Canyon westward to Coyote Hills and the Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge on San Francisco Bay. This connectivity allows for extended hiking and biking experiences beyond the park's boundaries.

Quarry Lakes Regional Recreation Area is the result of a partnership between the East Bay Regional Park District and the Alameda County Water District. The property was acquired between 1975 and 1992, with park construction beginning in 1997. The recreational facilities, including turf areas, picnic spots, shade pavilions, and a boat launch ramp, were added starting in 2000.