Park Stories

Media have been buzzing about recent great white shark sightings in the area. But we went to find out the truth about these mysterious (and unfairly maligned) fish, by asking noted biologists such as Parks Conservancy Trustee Dr. John McCosker.

With #GivingTuesday coming up on Dec. 1, remember how our national parks give kids a sense of wonder, peace, and purpose. See how even a $10 donation can help supply young people with an outdoor experience they’ll cherish forever.

Christine (Chris) Lehnertz, who was named General Superintendent of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area in May, is not only new to this park but also relatively new to the National Park Service (NPS).

Flanked by a beloved filmmaker and a legendary conservationist, Sue Gardner wowed an audience of 1,500 scientists and policy makers in Brazil. See how she shared the Conservancy’s work abroad—and hear the lessons she learned about civic engagement around the world.

With “boo”-tiful sites aplenty, the Golden Gate National Parks are full of places to take your date on Halloween (or some other dread and dreary night by the Bay)—especially if you want him or her seeking safety and comfort in your arms.

Fifty years ago, biologists gathered a convening with an unprecedented specific purpose—saving a species on the brink, the Peregrine Falcon. Learn about that pivotal event and how you can support the GGRO’s hosting of an important raptor conference this fall, which continues to draw inspiration from the ’65 meeting.

Be the first to see the design for the New Presidio Parklands, topping the Presidio Parkway tunnels and connecting Crissy Field with the Main Post. After months of public workshops and thousands of ideas from the community, the “schematic design” phase is ready for launch. Learn where and when to attend the big presentation.

Early in September, the Surgeon General made the simple (but highly salutary) act of walking a national priority across America. Learn how the Institute at the Golden Gate is heeding Dr. Vivek Murthy’s call, and how you can get “on a stroll” here in our parks.

Get a real insider’s view of one of the Conservancy’s most innovative—and impactful—youth programs: LINC. A recent graduate of the program returned this summer to produce a video that captures the moments that can change a high schooler’s life.

On Oct. 3-4, 2015, enjoy a sampler (Tam-pler?) platter of Tamalpais fun: hikes and walks; ranger talks; volunteer activities; an art exhibition preview; a community festival featuring food, music, and crafts; and an opportunity to hear about the One Tam vision.

What’s the greatest number of raptor (bird of prey) species seen in one day on Hawk Hill? And what’s the highest volume of raptors spotted in a day? Read on to find out—and learn how you can witness a possible “best day” at the West Coast’s premier hawk migration monitoring spot.

Learn how an amazing young leader’s memory continues to inspire, see how Crissy Field Center’s environmental education programs continue to lead and innovate, and discover how our I-YEL interns are giving a powerful and compelling voice to their generation.