West Oakland Farm Park has it all: a farm, playground, greenery, event space, animals, and an inspiring mission. My kids loved visiting with the chickens, roaming through the rows of flowers and vegetables, and climbing all over the play structure.
The 1.5-acre park is managed by Acta Non Verba, an organization committed to building a stronger community by cultivating fresh food and nurturing connections. A visit to the park offers more than just fun; it’s a chance to teach children about the origins of food, the value of sustainability, and the wonders of nature.
West Oakland Farm Park Features
Location: 2847 Peralta Street in Oakland
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Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 10 am – 6 pm, Tuesday & Thursday 2 – 6 pm, and Saturdays 10 am – 2 pm.
Parking: Easy and free street parking.
Restroom: Yes (closes 30 minutes before the park closes).
Shade: The green space provides very little shade, as most of the harvested plants need full sun. The seating area and playground do have wooden canopies that provide shade.
Surfaces & Surroundings: There are both dirt and paved paths in the farm area. Wood chips are near the play structure and swings. The entire park has a fence around it.
Lunch tables & seating: Plenty of benches and wooden tables scattered throughout for large group gatherings, birthday parties, or meetings.
Unique Features: Play structure includes slide, bridge, monkey bars, and several climbing opportunities; farm-themed playhouse; a four-way bouncy toy; suspended stepping stones; and a big kid swing and seat swing (no baby bucket swings). Wide variety of farm plants and animals appeal to mixed-age groups; clean grounds; opportunities to learn/observe about growing food and plants; and beautiful native plants.
Enclosed Farm Area is Little-Kid Friendly
The farm area is fully fenced in with the perfect space for nature exploration. This area includes vegetable and herb gardens, community plots, two chicken coops, an orchard, a bee apiary, an outdoor classroom, a “free-range” rabbit, and more. The ANV urban farm’s mission is to connect neighbors, provide a safe space for recreation, and enhance access to healthy foods in Oakland. If you & the family want to get your hands dirty and help keep the earth clean, Community Farm Day happens on the first Saturday of each month.
The chickens were a hit with my kids. There is a large coop in the back, plus a smaller coop with an observation area near the herb garden. Chance, the rabbit, also roams throughout the grounds, but we didn’t have a sighting on our most recent trip.
I like to encourage my kids to use all their senses when in a garden. There are so many plants and insects to see, touch, hear or smell on the farm grounds. But, visitors are asked to refrain from picking the produce and flowers. Games like “I Spy” or a scavenger hunt are also fun ways to keep kids engaged and extend a visit. We were there on a Saturday morning, and there were even free archery lessons taking place!
Farm Park Playground Suitable for 5+
In the corner of the park is the playground. This area is best for five years and up, though my fearless toddler held her own. The play structure has a smaller footprint but offers a range of features to keep kids moving and playing. It’s fenced in on two sides and located away from the main entry gate, but still a good idea to keep your eye on the younger kids.
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The playground isn’t directly next to the farm area, so supervising multiple kids in both areas can be a challenge. I recommend starting at the farm, then moving to the playground. There’s also a small grassy area between the entry gate and the playground, which may be nice for picnicking on a blanket.
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The Bottom Line on West Oakland Farm Park
West Oakland Farm Park is a great option for preschoolers to elementary-aged big kids. The park is relatively quiet. The farm animals and crops offer plenty of nature-based entertainment and education. The playground is small but mighty. The grounds are clean and inviting; the staff is dedicated to supporting the community. We’ll definitely be back!
Nearby Willow Park offers a clean and well-kept playground >
