Highlight • Rest Area
Road cycling
5.0
(3)
Bushrod Park is a cherished urban green space nestled in the North Oakland neighborhood of Oakland, California, within the vibrant San Francisco Bay Area. Spanning over 10 acres at an elevation of approximately 12 meters, this expansive park serves as a vital community hub, offering a blend of recreational facilities and natural beauty. It is bordered by Martin Luther King, Jr. Way to the west and Claremont Avenue to the east, making it a central feature of its namesake neighborhood.
Visitors consistently praise Bushrod Park for its diverse amenities and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite gathering spot for families, joggers, and dog walkers alike. The park's well-maintained sports fields, including baseball, tennis, and multi-use areas, are a particular highlight, alongside modern play zones for children. Many appreciate the sense of community fostered here, with its tranquil paths and lush greenery providing a peaceful escape from city life.
Before visiting, it's helpful to know that Bushrod Park is easily accessible, situated between Shattuck Avenue and Racine Street, and 61st and 59th Streets. Its central location in North Oakland provides excellent access to major highways and public transport options, including nearby BART stations and bus lines. The park is well-equipped with essential facilities, including a community center, restrooms, and water fountains, ensuring a comfortable visit for all.
Bushrod Park is an ideal destination year-round, with its extensive facilities catering to a wide range of activities. Whether you're looking for an active afternoon on the sports courts, a leisurely stroll along its tree-lined paths, or a family picnic, the park offers something for everyone. On clear days, visitors can even enjoy inspiring panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and its iconic bridges, adding to the park's appeal.
Many who explore Bushrod Park are captivated by its rich history as a "cradle of champions," where numerous renowned athletes, including baseball legends and basketball stars, honed their skills. The presence of a professionally run recreation center, complete with a gymnasium and weight room, further enhances the park's appeal, providing year-round opportunities for fitness and community engagement. The sound of children playing and birdsong often fills the air, creating a lively yet serene environment.
Discover the many facets of Bushrod Park, from its historical significance to its modern recreational offerings. With a variety of routes and activities available, komoot can help you plan your visit, whether you're interested in a brisk walk, a family outing to the playground, or enjoying a game on one of its famous courts. This vibrant Oakland green space promises a rewarding experience for all who explore its grounds.
Cycling is not permitted at this location
Tips
October 9, 2020
Road cycling

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Bushrod Park 🌳

5.0
(3)
341
riders
73.9km
03:47
1,270m
1,280m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5.0
(2)
158
riders
71.3km
03:45
1,330m
1,330m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5.0
(1)
134
riders
26.3km
01:31
540m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Elevation 10 m
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Wednesday 20 May
22°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Bushrod Park offers a pleasant walking loop that encircles its 10 acres, providing a tranquil experience amidst towering trees and lush greenery. While not a challenging trail system, it's perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or walking your dog. The paths are generally flat, making them accessible for most visitors.
Absolutely! Bushrod Park is highly family-friendly. It features modern play zones with safe swings and slides, as well as a clean sand play area, making it a popular spot for children. There are also picnic areas available for family gatherings, and the open green spaces are great for kids to run and play.
Yes, Bushrod Park is a popular spot for dog walkers. While dogs are generally welcome, they should be kept on a leash in designated areas. There are ample open spaces and paths suitable for walking your dog, making it a great place for your canine companion to get some exercise.
Bushrod Park is well-situated for easy access. Street parking is typically available around the park's perimeter, though it can fill up quickly during peak times. For public transport, the park is in close proximity to two BART stations and major bus lines, making it convenient to reach without a car. Its location near Highways 24, 880, 580, and 13 also makes it easily accessible by vehicle.
Bushrod Park is very well-equipped. It features a professionally run recreation center with a full-sized gymnasium, a weight room, and a kitchen. Outdoor amenities include well-maintained sports fields for baseball, softball, football, and soccer, as well as lighted tennis courts and recently refurbished lighted basketball courts. Restrooms and water fountains are also available near the community center and benches.
While Bushrod Park is a well-loved community hub, its tranquil paths lined with towering trees and lush greenery offer peaceful nooks for relaxation. On clear days, visitors can enjoy inspiring panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay and its iconic bridges, which can be a pleasant surprise for first-time visitors.
As a vibrant community park, Bushrod Park can get quite lively, especially on weekends, during sports events, or when community activities like summer movie nights and seasonal festivals are hosted. While it's a popular spot, its 10 acres provide ample space for visitors to spread out and enjoy the various amenities.
The park's modern facilities, including the recreation center, are designed to be accessible. Many of the park's paths are paved and relatively flat, making them suitable for wheelchairs. However, it's always advisable to check specific path conditions upon arrival for the most comfortable experience.
Bushrod Park is located within the North Oakland neighborhood, which is part of the vibrant Temescal District. This area offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and other amenities within walking or a short driving distance. You'll find options ranging from casual eateries to coffee shops where you can grab a bite or a drink before or after your visit.
Bushrod Park has a rich history dating back to 1903 when Dr. Bushrod Washington James donated the land. It's often referred to as a "cradle of champions" because many renowned athletes, including baseball legends Rickey Henderson and Frank Robinson, and basketball stars Gary Payton and Jason Kidd, honed their skills on its fields and courts. The Oakland Raiders even used it as a practice facility in the early 1960s.