Since 2020, amidst the pandemic and changing local health orders, we had steadfastly kept most of the Regional Parks and trails open. The pandemic has shown us very clearly that we all need parks – now, more than ever. Parks and open space are essential for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
County health officers have affirmed that spending time in parks is beneficial for health, disease prevention, and mental stress relief. Contra Costa County Health Office: Guidance for Parks as an Essential Service During COVID-19 Pandemic [PDF]. View video below.
To keep parks and trails safe and enjoyable for everyone, please observe Trail Courtesy guidelines and bring trash home. Do not leave trash or bags of dog waste on trails. We need YOUR help! Please follow all COVID-19 safety requirements and park regulations. Thank you!
How EBRPD is keeping parks open and safe during pandemic, Aug. 11, 2020, 23m:00s
Park Updates
Camping, Swimming*, and Programs are available. See Calendar of Events.
*Swimming may not be available at certain facilities due to blue green algae, low water levels, or renovation.
Safety Rules & Guidelines in the Parks
Help us keep the Regional Parks safe by cooperating with the statewide health orders and park rules.
Before Heading Out to the Parks
- Visit the following websites for latest state and county guidelines on outdoor gatherings and activities:
CA Department of Public Health: Current Safety Measures
COVID-19 County Updates: Alameda County | Contra Costa County - Download a Park Map at home. Or, at the park, take a photo of the map posted on the Information Board before you begin your hike.
- Bring water for yourself and dog(s)
- Bring hand sanitizer, cloth face covering/mask
- Bring dog leash (6-foot max.) and dog waste bags
While at the Parks



- Park safely and correctly. Respect park neighbors and park staff. Do not block driveway, roadway, emergency exit, or service access road. Parking rules/restrictions will be enforced.
- If upon arrival by foot, bike, or car you observe that a parking lot is full, or a trail is crowded, please return at another time when the park or trail is less crowded.
- Keep a 6-foot distance from other park users
- Wear cloth face covering / mask when within 6 feet of other park users.
- Fish only from shore and piers. Keep 6-foot distance from other anglers.
- Be aware of high-touch points such as trail access gates, benches, bathrooms, etc. Use hand sanitizer.
- THANK YOU for DOING YOUR PART to KEEP PARKS SAFE AND CLEAN for park visitors, park employees, and wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions
Videos
Parks Are Essential - Enjoy Them Safely - Jan. 7, 2021, 1m:00s
County Health Officers: Public Service Announcements
Erica Pan, M.D.: Alameda County Visiting Parks During COVID-19 - May 21, 2020, 0m:30s
Rohan Radhakrishna, M.D.: (English) Contra Costa County Visiting Parks During COVID-19 - May 21, 2020, 0m:30s
Aaron Chapman, M.D.: Mental Health Visiting Parks During COVID-19 - May 21, 2020, 0m:30s
Rohan Radhakrishna, M.D.: (Spanish) Contra Costa County Visiting Parks During COVID-19 - May 21, 2020, 0m:30s
COVID-19 Safety Requirements in Parks
OpenRoad with Doug McConnell - NBC Bay Area
NBC Bay Area: How EBRPD is Keeping Parks Open and Safe During the Pandemic - Aug. 11, 2020, 23m:00s
Visitor Information: COVID-19 - Apr. 9, 2020, 0m:30s
Carry Out ALL Trash - Mar. 26, 2020, 0m:15s
NO Picnicking, NO Groups - Mar. 26, 2020, 0m:15s
6-foot Distancing - Mar. 26, 2020, 0m:15s
OpenRoad with Doug McConnell - NBC Bay Area
NBC Bay Area: Wellness & Access for All in Regional Parks - Jul. 2, 2019, 6m:25s