Go-To Picnic Spots in 7 San Mateo County Parks
The last two years have highlighted just how important parks and open space are for our mental and physical health. Now, with everything opened up, we can nurture an appreciation for our parks with that favorite summertime activity – picnicking! So, cut up the watermelon and take your friends and family to these old and perhaps new favorites for some summer picnic fun. Junipero Serra Park Junipero Serra Park is lesser known but offers an array of fun family activities for passing a summer day, and you can bring your dog (on-leash) too. Check out the drop-in picnic areas near the Meadow View playground which boasts a spectacular 54-foot double slide that will thrill kids and grown-ups alike. For a nice stretch after lunch you can learn more about the park along the short 0.4-mile Live Oak Nature Trail or catch some outstanding views from the top of Quail Loop Trail. If you seek shade for your large group picnic, reserve the Bay View Picnic Shelter, which as its name suggests, affords epic views of the bay. $6 parking fee; self-guided tour available San Bruno Mountain San Bruno Mountain State and County Park has some of the best views on the Peninsula,…
Looking Forward with Hannah Ormshaw, Assistant San Mateo County Parks Director
Women’s History Month is for celebrating the contributions women have made throughout history and for recognizing the achievements of women in a variety of fields. This month on our social media channels, we profiled four women whose steadfast leadership helped preserve and create some of our county park treasures. We also want to look forward and celebrate female leaders working today to advance their fields and who are making significant contributions to society. Hannah Ormshaw is one of these leaders for the San Mateo County Parks Department. In November, Hannah was named Assistant Director, having previously served as the Natural Resource Manager since 2019. Hannah has an academic and professional background as a geographer and ecologist. In light of her new leadership role, we asked Hannah a few questions to get to know her and what she envisions for her work with the Department.
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SAN MATEO COUNTY PARKS FOUNDATION
General Information
The San Mateo County Parks Foundation was established in 1998 to provide additional financial support for the recreational, environmental and educational programs and projects of the San Mateo County Department of Parks. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer board of directors and has a small staff.
The Foundation seeks grants and contributions from individuals, foundations and businesses. Recognition of gifts is done in accordance with the county's approved donor recognition guidelines. The Foundation does not manage the projects directly. The San Mateo County Department of Parks is responsible for the design, permitting, contracting and maintenance of the projects.
Mission Statement
The San Mateo County Parks Foundation inspires people to care for, learn about and enjoy our parks.
Land Acknowledgement
The San Mateo County Parks Foundation’s office is located on the ancestral homeland of the Ramaytush and Muwekma Ohlone peoples, the original inhabitants and land stewards of the San Francisco Peninsula. As guests, we recognize that we benefit from living, working and recreating here on their traditional homeland. We wish to pay our respects by acknowledging the ancestors, elders and future generations of caretakers of the Ohlone people.
Fundraising Priorities and Current Goals
In partnership with the San Mateo County Department of Parks, the Foundation raises funds to support projects, programs and volunteers for benefit parks and visitors.
We are committed to conserving and improving the quality of our county parks for current and future generations to enjoy.