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Parks

A visitor excited about being on Alcatraz Island.
Alcatraz Island is a vital player during World Cup, Super Bowl

As summer and the World Cup approach, rangers are preparing to welcome another global audience, and Alcatraz will be a great place to soak in the excitement.

Western Snowy Plovers and Buffleheads are among the birds you can spot at Crissy Field
Crissy Field birding basics: Spot these birds in San Francisco

Crissy Field is a wonderland for birdwatchers of all levels. We've put together an introductory guide to some of the wonderful bird species you can encounter when out at Crissy Field.

Must-See Destinations in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

Whether you're planning a quick afternoon escape, a full day of hiking and sightseeing, or an extended visit to San Francisco, there's always something new to discover. Here are the must-see destinations in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area for any trip to the parks.

A small blue disc-shaped creature, Velella velella, on a beach
Where to find mysterious blue 'Velella velella' in the GGNRA

These unique, jellyfish-like creatures wash up in great numbers during spring and early summer months along various shorelines, including San Francisco's Ocean Beach, Marin County's Rodeo Beach, Stinson Beach, and more.

Crissy Field is a place to gather with family and friends, thanks to its transformation 25 years ago!
25 years of Crissy Field

We’re celebrating 25 years since the public and partners came together to turn Crissy Field into a beloved destination. Before that transformation, Crissy Field was a broken concrete parking lot. 

A person walks their dog along Milagra Ridge in San Mateo County.
Dog-Friendly Park Sites in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) is one of the most dog‑friendly destinations in the National Park System, offering an impressive collection of designated trails, beaches, and open spaces where you and your pup can explore together.

Baker Beach
Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

Spanning the entrance to San Francisco Bay, this engineering marvel links San Francisco to Marin County while standing at the heart of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

Fog globe of redwood forest
Holiday activities in the GGNRA: New memories await in nearby national parks

‘Tis the season for a 3-hour outdoor adventure "Family HoliDAY" packed with fun, wow and discovery. The Golden Gate National Recreation Area in the San Francisco Bay Area is a perfect destination for multigenerational families looking to create unforgettable hikes and memories.

Oak forests on Mount Tamalpais.
Forests of Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Mt. Tam

Stretching across the hills and shorelines of San Francisco and Marin, the forests of Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) provide shade, habitat, and a living connection between people and nature.

Sunrise from the Marin Headlands showing the Golden Gate Bridge.
Parks are open, and so is our gratitude: 2025 government shutdown updates

This page covers the 2025 government shutdown in October and November 2025.