Who We Are

The Hayward Area Recreation & Park District is an independent special use district providing park and recreation services for over 250,000 residents living within a 64 square-mile area which includes the City of Hayward, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo and the unincorporated Ashland, Cherryland and Fairview districts. The Park District, known locally as “H.A.R.D.”, is the largest recreation district in the State of California. Since its creation in 1944, the District has provided residents with many beautiful facilities and parks, as well as hundreds of educational and recreational classes and programs. The mission of the Park District is improving the quality of life for citizens of all ages by providing a variety of recreational activities, special events, facilities and services that encourage life-long learning, fitness and fun.