Quarry Lakes Regional Park – Lakes on Lakes

Quarry Lakes Regional Park lies between Fremont and Union City. It has a massive 350 acres of lakes for recreation and contains amenities for water activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. Though hiking, picnicking and barbecuing are also among the weekend favorites. 

Quarry Lakes – What to Expect

• Parking: $5 per vehicle 
• Dogs: $2 per dog – Guide/service dogs are free
• Additional fees for boating use (boats can not have motors)
• Park Hours varies throughout the year – typically open from 7 am to 5 pm
• Swimming area on a beach, a marina for boat launches, fishing, picnic areas, BBQ grills, and fruit garden

History of Quarry Lakes

The Fremont Quarry Lakes formed during mining operations in the mid-19th century. It had been a gravel quarry that supplied gravel for the transcontinental railroad. The quarry extends to some 120 feet below the surface at some points. In 1992, the East Bay Regional Parks and the Alameda Water district purchased the land. They worked to restore the lake and transform it into usable land for recreation in the following years. There are active restoration projects that continue to this day. There are four lakes in the park:

• Horseshoe Lake
• Lago Los Osos
• Willow Slough
• Rainbow Lake

Getting To Quarry Lakes

Quarry Lakes is about 5 min from the Decoto Rd exit on 880. Heading East (towards the mountains) on Decoto, make a right on Paseo Padre Parkway. About half a mile down on Paseo Padre Parkway, make a left on Isherwood Way. 

Parking At Quarry Lakes Park

There are four lots with over a thousand parking spots. It should be relatively easy to find a space. All the parking lots are located on the north side of the lakes, so you’ll need to walk a bit to access the south side of the park. Towing and trailers have dedicated spaces.

Activities At Quarry Lakes Park

Picnic and BBQ

There are multiple locations to BBQ and large grassy meadows with good shade for picnicking throughout the park. Most picnic benches are first come first serve. There are also reservable sites throughout the park. In total, the different sites support a total capacity of 500+ people. The number to call for reservations is 1-888-EBPARKS. 

Hiking and Bicycling

Hikers and bicyclists share the trails. The trails are wide enough that bikers and hikers can enjoy the trail in peace. The trail around the lakes consists of crushed gravel. A road bike might have a difficult time navigating the bumps in the terrain, but I’ve seen people do it. 

Boating and Water Activities

Most crafts without an engine are allowed out on the water. The restriction is there since the water from the lake feeds into the groundwater. This includes sailboats, kayaks, inflatable rafts, and stand up paddleboards. There is a dedicated boat launch dock near the entrance. To get to the boat launch, make a right when you enter from the main entrance.

Swimming

There is a swim beach area with a fee for entrance all year round. You will find that there is a lifeguard on duty during certain hours and seasons. Although you may swim at your own risk without a lifeguard, you can hire a lifeguard for a group of swimmers if needed. Restrooms are available for you to change along with a bathhouse. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to bring dogs into this area. As a side note, there is a max capacity for the area and once it is reached, no new entries are allowed for the rest of the day.

Fishing Area

You can fish in Horseshoe Lake and Rainbow Lake. Throughout the season, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife “plant” fish in the lakes. If you are older than 16 years old, you will need a permit to fish in the lakes. You can purchase a day permit at the booth when you enter the park. The type of fish available to catch will depend on the season and can include catfish or rainbow trout. You can check the California Dept. of Fish And Wildlife website here to when and what fish are deposited into Quarry Lakes.

Dogs at Quarry Lakes Park

Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash all the time. There is a $2 fee per dog you bring into the park. Service dogs and guide dogs can be brought in without a charge. You can hike with dogs on the trails, but they are not allowed in any of the lakes or the swim areas. 

Fruit Garden 

There is a grove of fruit trees in the center of Horseshoe Lake. There are quite a few rare fruit trees that are planted and maintained by the park. Each of the trees is labeled, and you can find a list of them here.  You are encouraged to pick fruits from the trees to enjoy on the spot but it is not where you would go to harvest a basket full to bring home.

Tips For Your Visit

If you are planning to take a hike at Quarry Lakes Park, sneakers are recommended as it is a dirt trail with some uneven footing. Check the signs for any closures and warnings. The swimming can close from time to time due to bad water conditions or restoration efforts. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, Ed Levin Park is 20 minutes away and has a more challenging elevation profile.