Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Park

Managed by the East Bay Regional Park District, the park offers many recreational activities. The two-acre Dry Creek Garden features footbridges from where visitors can enjoy a view of the creek and nearly 200 native and exotic plants. Visitors can fish for largemouth bass, bluegill and sunfish from Jordan Pond pier.

Access point: 1320 Garin Avenue, Hayward

Parking fee: $5 per vehicle (when kiosk is attended); $4 per trailered vehicle.

Information and map: www.ebparks.org/parks/garin

Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, fishing. Garin Barn Visitor Center (open seasonally on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day from 11:30am-6pm).

Insider tip: Visit the park in late summer when the Garin Apple Festival celebrates antique apple varieties.

Photo: Vincent Zammit