The Bonsai Garden at Lake Merritt (BGLM) is recognized as one of the jewels of Oakland. It is treasured by locals, and it is one of the top attractions for visitors to “The Oaktown”. The BGLM is open to the public free of charge throughout the year, and is entirely managed and staffed by volunteers. All of our trees have been donated to us by bonsai artists and collectors, and we are funded solely through donations. All donations go to support the BGLM.

The BGLM is a subsidiary of the Golden State Bonsai Federation (GSBF), which is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) educational organization, and your contributions are tax-deductible.

Donations can be made online. Please follow the below instructions.