Parks

Graphical illustration of a mountain lion from Favianna Rodriguez
Free colorful wildlife Zoom backgrounds from artist Favianna Rodriguez

Download these colorful backgrounds for your video chats through Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet.

California poppies seen in the Golden Gate national parks.
Best Bay Area wildflower trails without the crowds

Make sure you preserve the bloom in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area! Check out some of our top picks for trails that have wildflowers without the crowds.

Seal Rocks seen in the Pacific Ocean near San Francisco's Lands End.
Lands End: How to find its hidden secrets

A sign at Lands End states: "Terrains that have been shaped by human activity in response to nature have a name—cultural landscapes." Here's a sampling of what you can learn on one of our member tours of the area.

Stairs down to Black Sands Beach
Black Sands Beach
Beach

You’ll feel like a pirate as you descend the steps to the black sand on this hidden beach in the Marin Headlands.

Some spots in the Golden Gate National Parks, like this overlook in Tennessee Valley, are wonderful for reflection.
Tennessee Valley Beach
Beach

The 1.8-mile, well-groomed trail to Tennessee Beach begins at the trailhead parking lot, about a mile down Tennessee Valley Road.

The Golden Gate Bridge as seen from China Beach.
San Francisco’s China Beach: The Eras Tour

China Beach, the small, sandy cove nestled between Baker Beach and Lands End, isn’t just a hidden gem, it’s a prized jewel.

Lidia D'Amico opens a window to the ocean on Alcatraz.
Ask a park scientist: Lidia D'Amico, the bird biologist of Alcatraz

National Park Service biologist Lidia D’Amico works, in short, for the birds.

Overlooking Stinson Beach
Marin County Beaches

Whether you’re a beachcomber, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) parklands in Marin County have a coastal paradise for everyone.

Rodeo Valley Trail
Leave No Trace Seven Principles

Learn more about the "Leave No Trace Seven Principles" to help minimize our actions may have on plants, animals, other people, and even entire ecosystems.

Ocean Beach visitors warm up beside a bonfire in the iconic fire pits as a golden sunset illuminates the sky.
Ocean Beach bonfires: How to snag a fire pit

Where else can you roast s'mores while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean? So bundle up and head out to these beaches for a memorable time out.

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