This is one of the best parks I've ever been to. Spread over 300 acres there is something for everyone whether you love nature or like to take the pet dog out for a walk on a trail surrounded by cypress, pine, and eucalyptus trees. There are paved and unpaved trails for walking where you can get a stunning view of parts of the Bay area. There are a couple of duck ponds where you can see the ducks waddling away as well as the Jerry Garcia amphitheatre used to stage plays by school kids and to have other community events. There is also a separate play area for small children as well as space for family picnics. On the perimeter of the park you have the wonderfully named paved looped trail called the Philosopher's Way where people can rest and take in the view. There are several tennis courts, a large baseball practice area, and a nine hole golf course. Toilets are clean and conveniently located. People living in the area may complain about the amount of local and community taxes they have to pay but when you have places like the John McLaren park in your neighborhood you should count your blessings. A daily walk or jog here is a real joy that you'll be hard pressed to find in other urban environments. It's a well kept secret for the neighborhood residents who probably want to keep it that way instead of having crowds come and spoil the rustic charm of this park. Restrooms: Clean and located in several areas Dog-friendliness: Very dog friendly and dog owner friendly. The canines have a great time here given what I've seen of our dog's happiness at being here relative to a walk on the street Picnic area: Lots of space for families to barbecue meat on the large number of grills located widely throughout the park.