Search results
Lake Merritt is a large tidal lagoon in the center of Oakland, California, just east of Downtown. It is named after Samuel Merritt, Oakland's mayor in 1867–1869, who had the lagoon dammed turning the tidal lagoon into a salt water lake. It is surrounded by parkland and city neighborhoods.
Learn about the history, wildlife, and attractions of Lake Merritt, the nation's oldest wildlife refuge and a tidal slough in the San Francisco Bay. Explore the lake's islands, gardens, boating center, nature center, and more.
Lake Merritt was the United States’ first official wildlife refuge (in 1870). If you only have three hours Encircled by art deco buildings and 1950s flats, this saltwater and freshwater lake, fed by the estuary and bay, is the first official wildlife refuge in the United States.
Lake Merritt is not a swimming lake. It is a brackish lake, mostly salt water with a little fresh water coming in from some seasonal streams. I have never seen a swimmer in the lake.
- (928)
- Attraction
- Oakland, 94612, California
Lake Merritt is a scenic and historic lake in Oakland, California, that offers boating, bird watching, and cultural attractions. Learn about its history, wildlife, and nearby spots like Jack London Square and the East Bay wine trail.
May 22, 2023 · Why you should plan a visit to Lake Merritt, Oakland's beloved urban oasis. An aerial view of Oakland and Lake Merritt with San Francisco in the background. Lake Merritt is a tidal...
People also ask
What is Lake Merritt known for?
Is Lake Merritt a treasure and liability?
Is Lake Merritt a good place to jog in Oakland?
How did Lake Merritt get its name?
Fed by the adjacent Oakland Estuary, saltwater Lake Merritt is a popular spot, and the 3.5-mile/5.6-km path that circles the lake is always filled with locals jogging before work, stretching their legs at lunchtime, or watching the lakes “necklace of lights”—more than 4,000 lightbulbs on 126 lampposts—blink on at the end of the day.
