Archive for the ‘Recreation’ Category

Antioch Water Park After Dark: Christmas in July this Friday night

Tuesday, July 9th, 2024

By City of Antioch Recreation Department

The Antioch Water Park presents Christmas in July featuring Aloha Ice this Friday, July 12, 2024! Enjoy refreshing shave ice, delight in a special appearance from Santa, and embark on an exciting scavenger hunt throughout the park!

Along with these fun activities, the first 50 people to enter the park will receive vouchers for FREE shave ice from Aloha Ice!

Tickets are $11 per person at AntiochWaterPark.com or $13 at the door and include night swim.

The Antioch Water Park is located inside Prewett Family Park at 4701 Lone Tree Way.
*Shave ice is not included in admission, without voucher, all shave ice must be purchased.

Don’t miss out and come celebrate with us!

East Bay Park CLOSURES extended through Saturday; REOPENING Sunday, July 7

Saturday, July 6th, 2024

Swim facilities, shoreline regional parks remain open

By Jen Vaya, Public Information Specialist, East Bay Regional Park District

Parks previously closed by the East Bay Regional Park District will remain closed through Saturday and will reopen Sunday morning. Some hill and inland East Bay Regional Parks were closed on Tuesday, July 2, due to extreme fire conditions and excessive heat.

Park status is subject to change depending on conditions. Check www.ebparks.org before heading to a park.

The National Weather Service-Bay Area has extended its Red Flag through Saturday, July 6, with Level 2 restrictions in effect DISTRICT WIDE. A Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks.

Level 2 Extreme Fire Danger Restrictions Include:

  • No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional parks, trails, and shorelines. (Prohibited year-round)
  • NO fireworks. Fireworks are not permitted in any Regional Parks. (Prohibited year-round)
  • No open fires or barbecues of any type. Only gas-fueled stoves are allowed.
  • Drive only on designated roadways – no off-road driving. Do not drive or park on dry grass, as heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.
  • Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

Parks Closed and Reopening Sunday:

Park Closed and Reopening Sunday:

•   Anthony Chabot
•   Bishop Ranch
•   Black Diamond Mines •   Briones
•   Brushy Peak •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Claremont Canyon •   Contra Loma
•   Deer Valley
•   Dry Creek
•   Diablo Foothills (trails closed) •   Dublin Hills
•   Five Canyons •   Garin •   Huckleberry •   Las Trampas
•   Leona Canyon •   Mission Peak •   Morgan Territory •   Ohlone
•   Pleasanton Ridge •   Round Valley •   Sibley
•   Sobrante Ridge
•   Sunol
•   Sycamore Valley •   Tilden (trails closed)
•   Vargas Plateau •   Vasco Caves •   Vasco Hills •   Waterbird •   Wildcat Canyon

Anthony Chabot Campground will remain closed through Sunday, July 7. Please check www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures for the most updated information.

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety tips:

  • Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.
  • Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve will be closed Saturday, July 6

Friday, July 5th, 2024
Photo: EBRPD

Reopening Sunday, July 7 (subject to change).

By East Bay Regional Park District

Due to high temperatures and extreme fire danger, Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch will be closed Saturday, July 6. Dry and windy conditions are expected, which can lead to extreme fire weather risks.

When the park is open again, please still take precautions when hiking in the heat. Here are some safety tips:

• Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.

• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

• Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.

• Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.

• Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

• No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.

• No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.

• Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.

• Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

To learn more about East Bay Regional Park closures visit www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures.

Stay safe, everyone!

East Bay park closures extended through Friday, July 5

Friday, July 5th, 2024

Swim facilities, shoreline regional parks remain open

Some hills and inland East Bay Regional Parks closed due to extreme fire conditions and excessive heat

Weather Service extends Red Flag , Excessive Heat Warnings through Saturday, July 6

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

Parks closed Tuesday by the East Bay Regional Park District will remain closed during this week’s increased temperatures and extreme fire danger (subject to change). The National Weather Service extended a Red Flag Warning and Excessive Heat Warning through Saturday, July 6. The Park District will reassess conditions and provide additional information Friday evening. 

A Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks. The Park District closed the following parks/areas below on July 2.

Park Closures:

•   Anthony Chabot •   Bishop Ranch •   Black Diamond Mines •   Briones •   Brushy Peak •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Claremont Canyon•   Contra Loma •   Deer Valley •   Dry Creek •   Diablo Foothills (trails closed) •   Dublin Hills •   Five Canyons •   Garin •   Huckleberry•   Las Trampas •   Leona Canyon •   Mission Peak •   Morgan Territory •   Ohlone •   Pleasanton Ridge •   Round Valley •   Sibley •   Sobrante Ridge•   Sunol •   Sycamore Valley •   Tilden (trails closed) •   Vargas Plateau •   Vasco Caves •   Vasco Hills •   Waterbird •   Wildcat Canyon

Also, Anthony Chabot Campground will be closed through the weekend. Please check www.ebparks.org/alerts-closures for the most updated information.

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety rules and tips:

  • Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.
  • Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.
  • No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.
  • No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.
  • Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.
  • Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Park Happenings for July: News from the East Bay Regional Park District 

Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024
Source: EBRPD

No fireworks in the parks, feedback needed on Briones Pilot Project, campfire, state bat-related activities, save the date for National Night out

For information regarding recent park closures due to increased wildfire risk, visit www.ebparks.org/about-us/whats-new/news/swim-facilities-and-shoreline-regional-parks-remain-open-through-heat-event. 

By Dave Mason, Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs, East Bay Regional Park District

Fire Safety Advisory – Fireworks are not allowed in East Bay Regional Parks. July is a special month full of sunny days and warm summer nights. It’s also a time to take extra precautions due to the increased risk of wildfires in Regional Parks and neighboring communities. With July 4th celebrations coming up this week, remember that fireworks are not allowed in Regional Parks or shorelines.

Source: EBRPD

Wildfire safety remains one of the East Bay Regional Park District’s top priorities. Be fire smart and aware of fire danger levels, red flag warnings, and fire safety. The Park District urges all visitors to enjoy their Regional Parks safely and responsibly. Be prepared for the upcoming wildfire season – visit www.ebparks.org and search for “Fire Safety Tips.”

Lakeside Laps on July 20 at Lake Chabot Regional Park. Lakeside Laps is a trail running and walking event hosted by the Regional Parks Foundation in partnership with Brazen Racing Sports & Community. In celebration of the East Bay Regional Park District’s 90th Anniversary, Lakeside Laps proceeds will benefit the Regional Parks Foundation and its mission to connect youth with nature and expand access to parks.

Register today for the family-friendly Trout Trot 5K, 10K, or half marathon – all fitness levels are welcome! The Finish Line Festival will feature snacks, vendors, photo walls, awards, and more. Food and beverages provided by Equator Coffee, Harmless Harvest, and Drake’s Brewing Company. For registration info, start times, and general event information, visit www.brazenracing.com/lakesidelaps

Photo by Jen Vanya. Source: EBRPD

Feedback Needed on the Briones Pilot Project. The Briones Pilot Project was launched in April 2023 in a portion of Briones Regional Park to test new ways to safely share trails, improve the trail experience, and protect habitat, wildlife, and watersheds. At the recent Briones Pilot Project Community check-in meeting, about 75 community members – hikers, cyclists, and equestrians – joined the East Bay Regional Park District staff to discuss the first year of the pilot project and provide their feedback on what has improved and where challenges remain. Feedback is needed! Visit the project webpage to fill out an online survey or drop a comment on the interactive map at www.ebparks.org/BPP

Photo by Carl La Rue. Source: EBRPD

Save the Date: National Night Out on August 6 at Lake Chabot. An exciting evening of community bonding and fun at Lake Chabot awaits! The East Bay Regional Park District is hosting its second annual National Night Out on August 6 from 4-7 p.m. at Lake Chabot Regional Park, where parkgoers are invited to come together to celebrate and strengthen community ties. Meet the Park District’s public safety officers, firefighters, lifeguards, and park rangers who are instrumental in keeping the community safe. Visit with Park District naturalists at the Mobile Visitor Center and learn about the nature exhibits on display. Stroll around Lake Chabot and enjoy the lake’s serene beauty. All are welcome to this FREE event. For more information, visit www.ebparks.org/nno.

Family campfire with co-op group at Lake Del Valle. Photo: EBRPD

Campfire gatherings first became popular in the United States around the turn of the last century, with growth in the National Park system. At the time, there was an incentive to get more children out of urban cities and into the nature of these new National Parks, and the result was the emergence of summer camps and campfire programs. By the 1920s, more than 1,000 summer camps were offering outdoor activities such as canoeing, archery, hiking, arts and crafts, and fire-making. These camps also developed new traditions like campfires, s’mores, and sing-a-longs. Today, this tradition continues throughout the East Bay Regional Park District.

Experience unforgettable evenings under the stars with captivating campfire programs at Del Valle Regional Park, Big Break Regional Shoreline, Dumbarton Quarry Campground on the Bay, and Anthony Chabot Campground. These family-friendly events offer nature education, storytelling, and stargazing, while fostering a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Engage in hands-on activities, learn about local wildlife, and connect with the community around the warmth of the fire with naturalist-led campfire programs. Go to www.ebparks.org/calendar and search for “campfire.” Campfire programs are subject to change due to Park District fire restrictions and National Weather Services-Bay Area Fire Advisories and Red Flag Warnings.

CA State Bat golden-haired pallid bat. Photo: EBRPD

Did you know that California has a state bat? The pallid bat was designated as the California state bat in October 2023. Its golden fur, diverse range of habitats, and positive effects on the environment fit in well with the rest of the Golden State’s symbols. These golden-haired pallid bats, as well as other bat species, are found at parks throughout East Bay Regional Park District. Join Park District naturalists for bat-related activities all summer long! Go to www.ebparks.org/calendar and search for “bats.” Learn more about the bats of the East Bay at www.ebparks.org/programs/digital-learning/naturalist-videos/plants-animals/bats.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Power outage closes Antioch Community Center, Water Park, Prewett Library Wednesday

Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024
Source: City of Antioch

By City of Antioch

Due to an unexpected power outage, the Antioch Community Center, Prewett Library (4703 Lone Tree Way), and the Antioch Water Park (4701 Lone Tree Way) in Prewett Family Park will be CLOSED on Wednesday, July 3rd.

*Please check back for updates.

Swim facilities, shoreline regional parks to remain open through heat event

Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024
Source: EBRPD

Hills and inland East Bay Regional Parks closed due to extreme fire conditions, excessive heat

Contra Loma Park in Antioch closed, Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg open

By Dave Mason Public Information Supervisor, Public Affairs East Bay Regional Park District

Many East Bay Regional Parks will remain open for visitors during this week’s increased temperatures. Park guests are encouraged to take special precautions to prepare for the heat while enjoying the open shoreline parks and swimming facilities.

The National Weather Service-Bay Area issued a Red Flag Warning and Excessive Heat Warning for inland East Bay areas and an Excessive Heat Watch for coastal and bayside areas beginning Monday, July 1, at 11 p.m. The Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions are expected, leading to extreme fire weather risks.

Due to possible high fire risk, the Park District will be closing the parks/areas below beginning Tuesday, July 2, through Friday morning (subject to change).

Park Closures:

•   Wildcat Canyon •   Tilden (trails only) •   Huckleberry •   Sibley •   Leona Canyon •   Claremont Canyon •   Anthony Chabot •   Sobrante Ridge•   Sunol •   Ohlone •   Mission Peak •   Vargas Plateau •   Five Canyons •   Garin/Dry Creek •   Pleasanton Ridge •   Dublin Hills•   Sycamore Valley •   Bishop Ranch •   Las Trampas •   Briones •   Carquinez/Crockett Hills •   Black Diamond Mines •   Contra Loma•   Deer Valley •   Round Valley •   Morgan Territory •   Brushy Peak •   Vasco Hills •   Vasco Caves •   Waterbird

Swim facilities and Shoreline Regional Parks will remain open. Follow these safety rules and tips:

•   Avoid the hottest part of the day. If you do visit, go in the morning or early evening when it is cooler.

•   Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.

•   Wear sunscreen and lightweight, light-colored clothing.

•   Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen the heat’s effects on your body.

•   Don’t forget your pets! Carry water for them.

•   Swim only in designated areas.

•   No smoking. Smoking is prohibited in all regional trails, parks, and shorelines.

•   No open fires or barbecues of any type. Gas-fueled stoves are permitted.

•   Stay on designated roads – no off-road driving. Heat from a vehicle’s undercarriage can start a fire.

•   Secure all tow chains – dragging tow chains can spark fires.

Contra Loma Park & Swimming Lagoon in Antioch Closed, Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg Open

The Contra Loma Swim Lagoon is closed for the 2024 swim season and has been closed for the past few years due to ongoing renovations.

However, the Park District has partnered with the City of Pittsburg and the Ambrose Parks and Recreation District to provide alternative swim access and programs at Ambrose Aquatic Center in Pittsburg. The District’s support allows the Aquatic Center to be opened seven days a week during the 2024 swim season. Visit www.ambroserec.org/ambrose-aquatic-center for more information.

See updated list of park closures.

The East Bay Regional Park District is the largest regional park system in the nation, comprising 73 parks, 55 miles of shoreline, and over 1,330 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and environmental education. The Park District receives an estimated 30 million visits annually throughout Alameda and Contra Costa counties in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Antioch July 4th parade cancelled following excessive heat warning

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024
Source: City of Antioch

Live entertainment, dunk tank and fireworks will happen

Activities begin at 6:00 p.m.

Watch the Dunk Tank Fundraiser Livestream on Instagram @antiochrec_ca

By City of Antioch

After announcing earlier Tuesday, July 2, 2024, that the annual July 4th “parade and festivities are moving forward as planned” as of 6:05 p.m., the City of Antioch changed course and issued cancelled the parade and issued the following announcement:

The City of Antioch is cancelling the Independence Day Parade because of forecasted hot weather. The US National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area/Monterey California issued an excessive heat warning and heat advisory that will remain in effect until July 9th at 11:00 p.m.

The remainder of the event will start at 6:00 p.m. in historic Rivertown. Families can enjoy rides and games along with our dunk tank fundraiser in the Kids Zone, music by Universal Soul and Foreverland, and Food Truck Thursdays by the Foodie Crew, followed by our spectacular fireworks show over the Delta at 9:15 p.m.

Thank you to our community for your patience. Please stay cool and be safe this 4th of July!”

Source: National Weather Service

The National Weather Service for the San Francisco Bay Area/Monterey California issued the following Tuesday afternoon:

“An Excessive Heat Warning and a Heat Advisory is in effect now until 11 PM NEXT Tuesday. San Francisco will be under a Heat Advisory now until 7 PM Thursday. High temperatures in the upper 90s to near 110 are expected in the Excessive Heat Warning, while highs from the lower 80s to mid-90s are expected within the Heat Advisory. In addition, limited overnight cooling is expected for areas away from the immediate coast and in higher terrain. Never leave people or pets in vehicles! Limit outdoor activities during the afternoon and evening. Stay hydrated and take cooling breaks.”

As previously reported, two cooling centers plus, hydrating and misting stations in Rivertown will be provided during the celebration.

·Cooling Centers: City Hall and the Nick Rodriguez Community Center will be open as cooling centers during the event.

·Misting Stations: Stay refreshed with misting stations located throughout festivity locations.

·Hydration Stations: Free water stations will be available to keep you hydrated throughout the day.