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 Magazine. More about our publications here.

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View of wind turbines and solar panels from atop an Alcatraz cruises boat.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area is now carbon neutral. Here’s what that means.

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

Volunteer of the season: Meet Robert Feist, who met his wife on a Mt. Tam hike!

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

Reflections on biological and cultural diversity in our communities

Are diverse communities stronger communities? It is not as simple as you think.

Cloud hovers over the Golden Gate Bridge

Watch: Golden Gate National Parks featured on special episode of 'OpenRoad'

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!

Parks Conservancy Public Information Coordinator Melissa De Gant helped visitors understand the scope of the Redwood Renewal project in Muir Woods.

Five Questions About … Redwood Renewal, saving coho salmon in Muir Woods

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.

Listen to the sounds of environmental justice in San Francisco

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, former National Park Service Director Fran Mainella, at the Hartzog awards ceremony

Parks Conservancy CEO wins award for commitment to inclusion in national parks

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.

Redwood fog globe, available at Parks Conservancy stores and online.

Celebrate San Francisco's beloved fog this holiday season with an award-winning fog globe

Give a gift that feels good with one of our award-winning fog globes.

Fort Mason's Great Meadow during a sunset

Hit the Trail: Fort Mason

Fort Mason is a popular destination for history buffs, weekend revelers, and everyone in between. It’s a refuge on San Francisco’s northern waterfront, providing exceptional views of the larger San Francisco Bay.

Hidden gems of the GGNRA you have to see to believe

Here’s an insider’s guide to some of our favorite hidden gems of the GGNRA. From secret beaches to undiscovered redwood groves, these spots provide a chance to get into nature and steer clear of the crowds.