Codornices Park | Berkeley Waterfall, Cement Slide, and more
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Berkeley, CA is home to many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, but one of the most popular and beloved is Codornices Park. Nestled in the Berkeley Hills, this park offers stunning views of the Bay Area and a wide range of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages, including the infamous cement slide and tucked away, hidden waterfall.
Here are 10 things to see and do at Codornices Park:
1. Cement Slides
The park’s famous 40 foot cement slide is a must-see for anyone visiting Codornices Park. This steep, winding slide is made of smooth concrete and offers a thrilling ride for adults and kids.
The setting, under a huge oak tree, is idyllic.
Be sure to bring a piece of cardboard or a towel to sit on, and be prepared for a wild ride!
Pro Tip: Wear sturdy pants! I have seen some folks rip holes in their thinner attire – baring more than they intended!
2. Berkeley Waterfall
One of the best ways to experience the park’s natural beauty is to take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the hillside.
These trails offer stunning views of the Bay Area, offer some serenity from the city, but my favorite escape is Berkeley’s hidden waterfall in Benner Canyon.
NOTE: This waterfall is on private property – while the owner does allow it, ALWAYS be respectful of their property and the natural terrain.
To get to the waterfall, simply head past the playgrounds wooden ‘San Francisco Cable Car’, over to the Tamalpais Path. You will need to enter through a Private Property gate if you choose to go (I say this, as I am not giving you permission, simply sharing that all indications show that the owners are ok with this). Once through the gate, follow the creek to the falls. It’s certainly a hidden gem in Berkeley.
3. Hiking
As mentioned above, Codornices Park offers a variety of hiking trails that cater to hikers of all skill levels.
For a leisurely stroll, take the paved path that meanders along the creek and through the park’s beautiful landscapes. This trail is ideal for families with small children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. My kids loved mucking around in the creek.
If you’re seeking a more challenging hike, head up the hillside trail. This is a steeper, winding trail, that offers views of the surrounding area.
For a longer and more diverse hike, consider combining both trails for a complete park experience.
Be on the lookout for wildlife – there are plenty of birdwatching opportunities, as well as the occasional deer!
4. Playground
As with any playground, it’s an excellent place for kids to burn off some energy and have some fun. The Codornices Park playground features swings, slides, and climbing structures, as well as plenty of grass space to run around and play.
My kids have spent many days exploring this park and all it as to offer. The classic metal slides and wooden structures are a nice reprieve from the sterile, traditional ‘safety first’ plastic playgrounds that are seen at most parks these days.
5. Jane Hammond Softball Field
The South end of Codornices Park is home to the Jane Hammond softball field, which is a perfect spot for a pickup game or a more organized league.
In 1996, Hammond played a crucial role in establishing the micro-division of the softball league, which provided an opportunity for first-graders to get involved in the sport and develop a passion for it from an early age.
Over time, the micro-division has expanded to include kindergarteners as well, and it currently meets every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the field.
It is a great tribute to Jane, and the field is well-maintained and offers a great place to spend a sunny afternoon.
You are able to reserve a time slot for the field here.
6. Basketball Court
Berkeley’s basketball enthusiasts will love the park’s basketball court, which is open to the public and free to use. The court is brightly colored and offers a great place to work on your jump shot or play a pickup game with friends.
The surrounding grassy areas offer family or friends a close spot to watch and simply enjoy the parks’ atmosphere.
7. Picnic
Codornices Park has several picnic areas, which are great for a family outing or a peaceful lunch with your significant other.
These areas are well-shaded thanks to the mature trees, including oaks and redwoods, and offer plenty of space to spread out and relax.
So pack a lunch and spend the day at the park.
8. Reserve a Facility
If you are planning an event in advance, Codornices Park has facilities available for rent, including 3 designated picnic areas and the softball field.
The group picnic areas, with capacity up to 80 people, are perfect for parties, meetings, and other events.
You are able to reserve a spot here
9. Berkeley Rose Garden
Situated just a stone’s throw away from Codornices Park, the Berkeley Municipal Rose Garden is a must-visit destination for flower enthusiasts.
To get there, simply take a stroll through the tunnel that runs beneath the road from the grassy area of Codornices Park, and you’ll emerge on the other side, ready to explore the Rose Garden.
This beautiful garden boasts over 3,000 rose bushes of 250 varieties, as well as stunning views of the Bay Area. With its proximity to Codornices Park, a visit to the Berkeley Rose Garden is the perfect addition to your day out in the East Bay Area.
10. Take in the Views
Speaking of views, be sure to take in the stunning views of the Bay Area from Codornices Park and the Berkeley Rose Garden.
The park offers panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, and the surrounding hills, and is a great place to watch the sunset.
I suggest bringing layers for possible change in weather, as the Berkeley hills often get cooler and breezier.
What are the hours at Codornices Park?
The park is open from 6:00am – 10:00pm, unless otherwise stated.
Is Codornices Park free?
Yes, Codornices Park is free. There are fees to reserve the group picnic areas.
What park has the big slide in Berkeley?
Here! Head to the cement slide in Codornices Park in Berkeley for the biggest slide in the area. The 40-foot concrete slide is a blast for kids and adults!
For more concrete slides, Brigadoon Park in San Jose has a great set.
Does Codornices Park have Bathrooms?
Yes, not very far from the playground.
What is parking like at Codornices Park?
There is free street parking, and I’ve always been able to get close parking.
What else is there to do near Codornices Park?
Here are some nearby places you might want to consider visiting:
Tilden Regional Park
Just a few miles away, Tilden Regional Park offers stunning views of the Bay Area, as well as hiking trails, a farm, botanical garden, steam train, and a carousel.
The 2,000 acres is a fantastic destination to get away from the bustle of the Bay Area and Berkeley. Definitely add it to your exploration list!
Indian Rock Park
Indian Rock Park is a must-visit destination for any outdoor enthusiast in Berkeley. This features unique geological formations, with the centerpiece being a massive rock outcropping, popular with rock climbers and hikers alike.
The panoramic views of the Bay Area are top-notch, especially at sunset.
Bottom line – be sure to go to Indian Rock in Berkeley for bouldering if you love rock climbing!
Shorebird Park and Adventure Playground
The Shorebird Park Nature Center and Adventure Playground are situated on the eastern shoreline of the San Francisco Bay in Berkeley.
The Adventure Playground is a unique play space that allows children to use their creativity and imagination to build their own structures using wood, hammers, nails, and other materials.
Despite its appearance as a broken-down junkyard, the Adventure Playground is a quirky gem in Berkeley that offers an immersive experience for kids to explore and create, rather than sticking to traditional play structures.
By allowing kids to unleash their imagination and explore, you’d be surprised at the incredible structures they can create.
In addition to the Adventure Playground, visitors can also walk through the park’s wetlands, beach, and grassland habitats, providing an excellent opportunity to observe local birds, insects, and other wildlife.
However, be aware of the wild turkeys roaming around!
UC Berkeley Botanical Garden
The UC Berkeley Botanical Garden has over 12,000 plants from around the world. Visitors can explore various sections, take in some amazing views and thoroughly enjoy the nature and environment.
With such a variety in areas, it almost feels like you are out on a hike. Definitely worth exploring!
Berkeley Walks – Updated Guide Book
Discover the quirky charm and hidden treasures of Berkeley on foot with the updated guidebook, Berkeley Walks, featuring 21 self-guided tours that showcase stunning views, secret pathways, unusual gardens, and surprising landmarks. A perfect book for one of America’s most fascinating cities.
Before You Go …
If you plan on going into San Francisco, be sure to check out the Seward Street Slides.
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