January 15, 2017
Welcome Lake Merritt in Oakland, California, is one of the most unique urban spaces in the United States. Its 3.4 mile heart-shaped shoreline in the center of an exceptionally diverse city is the place for man and nature to migrate, meet and mingle daily. It is also home to the oldest designated wildlife refuge (1870) in the United States.
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.
Use LM Link page to contact specific organizations.
Lake Merritt protected under California Wildlife Act (1870)
See Park Rules & Fees.
Lakeside Park issues visit/contact the City of Oakland's website Oaklandnet.
62 storm drains and 8 creeks flow into the Wildlife Sanctuary / tidal lagoon known as Lake Merritt, which is subject to the rise & fall of SF Bay tides. Only rain down the storm drains!