Park Stories

Highlighting the people, engaging programs and beautiful places that make the Golden Gate National Parks special. Can't get enough? Sign up for our monthly E-ventures newsletter, and become a member today to receive our gorgeous Gateways newsletter quarterly. More about our publications here

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San Francisco Critter Socks Collection.
Article
To help kids learn about park wildlife, we developed our San Francisco Critter Socks Collection. The collection celebrates three species that make their home in our park: raccoons, bobcats, and mule deer.
Walking up to the Alcatraz Cellhouse.
Park E-Ventures Article
Instead of a trip to the movies, why not enjoy a staycation adventure and tour our most famous historic movie location, Alcatraz Island!
Green sweat bee (Agapostemon texanus) on flower
Article
In an era when insect declines are making international news, One Tam decided data about pollinators could help assess the resilience of Mount Tam’s ecosystems.
Sunlight breaking through stormy cloud over Alcatraz
Park E-Ventures Article
Sunlight might be in short supply during the winter months, but your parks have a bright season ahead. Celebrate the new decade by maximizing your time in the parks.
Tipi on Alcatraz with Golden Gate Bridge in background
Park E-Ventures Article
November 20, 1969. That day marked the beginning of the Occupation of Alcatraz by the Indians of All Tribes, a key milestone in the history of the island, our country, and the broader Native American civil rights movement.
View of wind turbines and solar panels from atop an Alcatraz cruises boat.
Park E-Ventures Article
Golden Gate National Recreation Area has achieved carbon-neutral park operations. But what does that really mean? Let's break down what goes in to our park's carbon footprint, take stock of what we've accomplished so far, and think about where to go from here in our continuing effort towards sustainability.
A volunteer gathers plants on a hill top
Article
The national parks have a never-ending “to-do” list, and a great portion of this list is taken on by our amazing volunteers. This season we’re pointing a spotlight on a very special volunteer who has been working with us for almost six years!
Sun shines through trees onto a stream and walkway in a forest
Article
Are diverse communities stronger communities? It is not as simple as you think.
Cloud hovers over the Golden Gate Bridge
Article
Watch this televised special to learn about the parks’ strong foundations and bright future welcoming all who want to bask in their beauty. Or watch just to enjoy some of that beauty from afar!
PICs at Muir Woods.
Gateways Article
In the fall of 2019, a special project launched at Muir Woods to help save endangered coho salmon. Redwood Renewal involves removing large boulders (“rip-rap”) from Redwood Creek and adding fallen trees and branches to create small pools for juvenile coho salmon to thrive.
Youth in the Urban Trailblazers program on a hike through the Presidio.
Gateways Article
Youth at the Crissy Field Center have become podcasting pros, and you can hear their work on your way to work!
Chris Lehnertz (left) with her award’s namesake Fran Mainella
Article
Chris Lehnertz was honored with the Fran P. Mainella Award by the Clemson University Institute for Parks in recognition of her long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion in our nation’s parks.