Tilden Regional Park - Orinda, CA
Tilden Regional Park is a remarkable destination for anyone seeking a dog-friendly outing near Orinda, California. Spanning forests, meadows, ridges, and lakes, this expansive park offers a unique escape just outside of the city. With a network of pet-friendly trails and designated areas where dogs can be off-leash, it’s a favorite among dog owners looking for a blend of nature, exercise, and adventure. The views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the East Bay are breathtaking, and Lake Anza provides a tranquil setting for picnics or a swim (fee required at the beach).
Dog lovers appreciate the well-maintained, accessible trails that suit all walking levels—from beginners to advanced hikers—and the abundance of benches and shaded spots along the way. The nearby Little Farm, Tilden Merry-Go-Round, Botanic Garden, and extensive picnic areas make this park a great family destination, with something for everyone—kids and dogs included. Be mindful that trails can get muddy after rain and weekends can be busier as locals flock to enjoy this natural haven.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, dogs are allowed off-leash on certain trails, as indicated by park signage.
- What are the park’s leash requirements? Dogs must be leashed in most areas except where signs expressly indicate off-leash is permitted.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? There is Lake Anza for swimming, but there is a $5 fee for the beach area. Dogs should follow posted rules regarding water access.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? Yes, there are many picnic and BBQ areas available for use throughout the park.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, much of the park’s trail network is well-shaded by trees, and there are picnic shelters available.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, you’ll find benches and picnic tables along trails and at scenic outlooks.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Trails can become muddy after rainfall, especially in wetter months.
- Where is the best place to park? Free parking is available at several lots throughout the park, including near Lake Anza and trailheads.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Tilden is renowned for its extensive, interconnected hiking and walking trail system.
Reviews
It’s a beautiful experience. Today it was raining so the trail was muddy. I crossed the bridge but turned back toward the parking area after viewing the lake.
It’s a beautiful experience. Today it was raining so the trail was muddy. I crossed the bridge but turned back toward the parking area after viewing the lake.
It’s a beautiful experience. Today it was raining so the trail was muddy. I crossed the bridge but turned back toward the parking area after viewing the lake.
Tilden Regional Park is one of my favorite places in the Bay Area and a park that never feels the same twice. Tucked into the Berkeley Hills, it is a world of its own with forests, meadows, lakes, ridges, and open spaces that make you forget you are so close to the city. Every visit feels like a new adventure, whether I am walking quiet trails under the trees, looking out at sweeping views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, or spending the day around the lakes and picnic areas with family and friends.
One of the highlights for me is Lake Anza. The trail around the lake is peaceful, and on warm days people swim at the small beach or set up picnics nearby. The Tilden Merry-Go-Round is another classic, a beautiful carousel from the early 1900s that still brings joy to kids and adults alike. The Little Farm is also special, with goats, cows, chickens, and pigs that you can visit and even feed. Families love it, and it adds to the park’s charm and variety.
The Botanic Garden is another gem, showcasing native California plants in a way that feels like a walk across the whole state. Beyond that, the park has golf courses, campgrounds, BBQ and picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is a place with something for everyone, no matter what kind of day you want to have.
For me, Tilden is more than just a park. It is a place to recharge, to connect with nature, and to make memories. Whether I am hiking the ridge trails, feeding the animals at the Little Farm, or just sitting by Lake Anza watching the light on the water, Tilden always leaves me feeling grounded and grateful. It is one of the true treasures of the Bay Area and a place I will always return to.
Tilden Regional Park is one of my favorite places in the Bay Area and a park that never feels the same twice. Tucked into the Berkeley Hills, it is a world of its own with forests, meadows, lakes, ridges, and open spaces that make you forget you are so close to the city. Every visit feels like a new adventure, whether I am walking quiet trails under the trees, looking out at sweeping views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, or spending the day around the lakes and picnic areas with family and friends.
One of the highlights for me is Lake Anza. The trail around the lake is peaceful, and on warm days people swim at the small beach or set up picnics nearby. The Tilden Merry-Go-Round is another classic, a beautiful carousel from the early 1900s that still brings joy to kids and adults alike. The Little Farm is also special, with goats, cows, chickens, and pigs that you can visit and even feed. Families love it, and it adds to the park’s charm and variety.
The Botanic Garden is another gem, showcasing native California plants in a way that feels like a walk across the whole state. Beyond that, the park has golf courses, campgrounds, BBQ and picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is a place with something for everyone, no matter what kind of day you want to have.
For me, Tilden is more than just a park. It is a place to recharge, to connect with nature, and to make memories. Whether I am hiking the ridge trails, feeding the animals at the Little Farm, or just sitting by Lake Anza watching the light on the water, Tilden always leaves me feeling grounded and grateful. It is one of the true treasures of the Bay Area and a place I will always return to.
Tilden Regional Park is one of my favorite places in the Bay Area and a park that never feels the same twice. Tucked into the Berkeley Hills, it is a world of its own with forests, meadows, lakes, ridges, and open spaces that make you forget you are so close to the city. Every visit feels like a new adventure, whether I am walking quiet trails under the trees, looking out at sweeping views of the Bay and Golden Gate Bridge, or spending the day around the lakes and picnic areas with family and friends.
One of the highlights for me is Lake Anza. The trail around the lake is peaceful, and on warm days people swim at the small beach or set up picnics nearby. The Tilden Merry-Go-Round is another classic, a beautiful carousel from the early 1900s that still brings joy to kids and adults alike. The Little Farm is also special, with goats, cows, chickens, and pigs that you can visit and even feed. Families love it, and it adds to the park’s charm and variety.
The Botanic Garden is another gem, showcasing native California plants in a way that feels like a walk across the whole state. Beyond that, the park has golf courses, campgrounds, BBQ and picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It is a place with something for everyone, no matter what kind of day you want to have.
For me, Tilden is more than just a park. It is a place to recharge, to connect with nature, and to make memories. Whether I am hiking the ridge trails, feeding the animals at the Little Farm, or just sitting by Lake Anza watching the light on the water, Tilden always leaves me feeling grounded and grateful. It is one of the true treasures of the Bay Area and a place I will always return to.
What a fantastic outdoor space, a little oasis right near the city. Saw a bunch of critters, large and small. Met the king of the forest, some surly squirrels, two cows, a couple of very sleepy pigs, and the ambassador of Pack Rat Trail. We’re soooo lucky to have these outdoor spaces so closeby! Great place for kids to learn about animals and a cool network of beginner friendly trails with a variety of flora. Remember to respect the wildlife while we visit their homes.
What a fantastic outdoor space, a little oasis right near the city. Saw a bunch of critters, large and small. Met the king of the forest, some surly squirrels, two cows, a couple of very sleepy pigs, and the ambassador of Pack Rat Trail. We’re soooo lucky to have these outdoor spaces so closeby! Great place for kids to learn about animals and a cool network of beginner friendly trails with a variety of flora. Remember to respect the wildlife while we visit their homes.
What a fantastic outdoor space, a little oasis right near the city. Saw a bunch of critters, large and small. Met the king of the forest, some surly squirrels, two cows, a couple of very sleepy pigs, and the ambassador of Pack Rat Trail. We’re soooo lucky to have these outdoor spaces so closeby! Great place for kids to learn about animals and a cool network of beginner friendly trails with a variety of flora. Remember to respect the wildlife while we visit their homes.
Amazing trails to run and hike on. Looked like fun camping as well. Nice and shaded.