Welcome 
​Lake Merritt in Oakland, California is one of the most unique urban spaces in the United States. Its three mile shoreline in the center of an exceptionally diverse city is a special place where nature and nurture migrates and mingles daily. 
​This tidal lagoon is home to the United States' oldest designated wildlife refuge dating from 1870.
​In 2020, we celebrate its 150th anniversary. 
Lake Merritt Wildlife Refuge 150th Anniversary. Promo for upcoming documentary 4:32
150th Outtakes 4:33

new virtual tour videos
  Diversity Project, Street Art by East Bay LGBTQ+ Healing Arts Center Volunteers.  2:08
Skidaddle early morning quick-zip around lakeside path. 4:44
 Necklace of Lights,  Dusk to Dark along the Necklace of Lights. 8:02
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American White Pelicans visit Lake Merritt, July 3
COVID-19 updates:
​Do not crowd ​the lake area --
wear masks if not 6' social distancing
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​Litter problem at the lake

​Pack it In / Pack it Out
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Mint bush flowering at Veterans Building
lakemerritt.org is an independent, ad-free site with current information about Lake Merritt and links to the volunteer groups and advocacy agencies working for the common good of the lake and the lake area community. It also serves as the portal for the LM Advocates, a coalition of LM organizations.
Underlined words are links.
  • ​View Calendar for on-going activities and things to do​. (Covid cancellations until further notice)
  • Lake Merritt Links lists important advocacy organizations in support of the lake & the lakeside area.
  • ​Volunteer page is being developed and will coordinate LM events involving volunteering
  • Birds and Gardens webpages showcase the lake park's natural diversity. Newly revised visual guide to lakeside birds.
  • Recreation links opportunities for boating, biking, croquet, lawn bowling, running and acro-yoga
  • LM Projects has current info on Measure DD improvements
  • View Park Info, map & info on rental fees, parking, grilling and restroom locations.
  • Contact for LM questions, comments, and/or suggestions.
  • Archives has photos of past projects and events at LM
FAQOakland Parks permit and rental phone contact is  510-238-3187.   Oakland Parks Reservation info.
PROBLEMS?
Download the app OAK 311 to report littering, down trees/branches, unsafe conditions, park rule violations... 
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7 creeks flow into Lake Merritt Watershed ©Oakland Public Works
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62 Storm Drains flow into Lake Merritt
Upcoming Events Next 30+ days
  • MOST CALENDAR ACTIVITIES AT THE LAKE HAVE BEEN CANCELLED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE​
 Gardens at Lake Merritt are open daily 8:30 to 3:30
  • July 4, Oakland Municipal Band Concert Cancelled
  • ​July 14,  Park & Rec Advisory Commission, 4:30 - 6
  • ​July 18, Gardens at LM Volunteers, 9 - 12
  • July 20, Measure DD Community Coalition, 7 pm zoom
  • July 22,  ​​Lakeside Park Bird Walk,  9 - 12
  • ​July 25,  LM Weed Warriors Volunteers, 9 - 12
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​BLACK LIVES MATTER FAMILY MARCH  June 7

​Oakland Band Summer Concert Series cancelled.
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Lakeside Park, Lake Merritt, Oakland CA
  lakemerritt.org and photos ©2011-2020