Open Space in Livermore

The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District operates four (4) open space parks: Sycamore Grove, Holdener Park, Garaventa Wetland Perserves, and Brushy peak, as well as the open space trails, and the glorious Camp Shelly. We coordinate and conduct nature and environmental education, interpretive programs and outdoor nature activities. Our open space parks allow you to explore nature right in your own backyard. Sycamore Grove Park is highly accessible yet large and ecologically diverse enough to immerse yourself in nature. Get up, get out, and explore with the Livermore Area Recreation and Park District.

The health and safety of our community is our highest priority. In accordance to the Alameda County Public Health Department's current Health Order, Livermore Area Recreation and Park District is offering limited camp and program opportunities. During this time, our parks and open spaces are open as they serve as an essential resource for public health and wellness. 

For more information about our programs, please visit our Activity Guide page or please contact our District Office Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 925-373-5700. For more information about our COVID-19 response in accordance to Alameda County Public Health Department, please visit our COVID-19 News and Information website page.  

Activity Guide

COVID-19 News and Information

To ensure the health and safety of our community and park users, and to limit the transmission of COVID-19, please follow the below requirements while utilizing our parks and Open Paces: 

• Pack-in, Pack-out your garbage and recyclables - There are reduced service levels due to employee restrictions based on the public health order.
• You MUST keep a minimum of six (6) feet between you and other park visitors at all times. 
• Have a face mask with you at all times to use in case you are unable to maintain a minimum of six (6) feet distance from others.
• Practice safe trail etiquette as we are experiencing higher than normal numbers of visitors to our open space parks.
• To avoid overcrowding, we suggest visiting the park on less crowded days or times, or taking a walk in your neighborhood.
• The park may close at anytime due to overcrowding to ensure visitors are able to maintain the required six (6) feet of physical distance from other, or fire danger.
• "High touch" amenities such as play structures are closed and prohibited from use.
• Bring your own Mutt Mitt and clean up after your pet. We no longer provide them in the dispensers.
• Be mindful if choosing to utilize restrooms and use at your own risk.
• Practice healthy hand washing habits using soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds as required by the public health Order.

*We will no longer be restocking mutt mitts in the parks. Please remember to bring your own mutt mitt and dispose of your pet waste in an appropriate receptacle to help keep our parks clean.

Mutt Mitt Notification

Valley Wilds Newsletter

Sign up to receive the Valley Wilds, our monthly e-newsletter containing a schedule of upcoming programs and events, park news and articles about natural and cultural history. You can download the past issues on our newsletter page, or sign up to receive it in your email each month.

View the Valley Wilds Newsletter

Sycamore Grove Photography Permit

The Livermore Area Recreation and Park District requires commercial photographers to have a permit when taking photographs within Sycamore Grove Park. Applications are accepted on a first-come-first-serve bases Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. There is a minimum of 48 hours processing for all application request; excluding weekends. Applicants are required to pay a $50 fee along with submitting the application for processing. Permits include two parking passes and access to Sycamore Grove Park on the reserved date from 7:00 a.m. to sunset (unless otherwise noted on the permit). For more information contact the District at registration@larpd.org.  

Sycamore Grove Photography Application