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White buildings with red roofs at Crissy Field with blue bay and Golden Gate Bridge and fog behind.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area

warningPark Closure7 warnings calendar_monthMar–May, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
Golden Gate National Recreation AreaYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure China Beach Construction & Seacliff Avenue Closures Fall - Winter 2026

Park's China Beach renovation of bathhouse, lower terrace, and picnic areas is in progress. See 'more' for link to Phase 3 of China Beach project below. SFPUC waterline replacement project will cause parking restrictions, lane closures, and access controls along Sea Cliff Avenue. Details open_in_new

Park Closure Alcatraz Island to Temporarily Close in Fall for Dock Repairs

Date Posted: 9/28/2026 Alcatraz Island, part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, is scheduled to temporarily close beginning on Oct. 26, 2026, while crews replace pilings that secure the ferry dock to the island. Repairs are expected to be completed by Nov. 18, 2026. For Details open_in_new

Caution Auto-Theft Warning - Only Bring What You Need to the Park

You can prevent vehicle break-ins in parking lots and scenic overlooks. Before leaving your car for even a short period of time: 1) Remove all valuables, 2) Lock your doors. 3) Take your wallets, purses, backpacks, keys, key fobs, cell phones, and electronics with you. Read artic Details open_in_new

Caution Intermittent Road Closure Field Road Near Battery Wallace October 1

Expect delays on the northeast-bound lane of Field Road between 7:30am and 4:30pm. For visitor and worker safety please obey traffic controls. Staff will be working to improve visitor experience by removing two invasive trees that obstruct the view of the historic field of fire f

Information Upper Fort Mason Roads and Parking Area Closures Fall 2025 - Fall 2026

Roads and parking areas at upper Fort Mason will have closures during utilities and seismic retrofit projects. Closures planned Fall 2025 through Fall 2026. Lots will be fenced and used as staging areas for projects occurring at Fort Mason. Signs will be posted in advance of util

Information Presidio Trust Trails Annual Coyote Pupping Season is April to October

To prevent dog-coyote conflicts, avoid seasonally closed sections of the Park Trail and the Bay Area Ridge Trail to dog walking. Explore open dog-friendly trails instead and remember to keep dogs on leash. Visit the Presidio Trust's website for more details. Details open_in_new

Information Ocean Beach Fire Season in Effect through October 31, 2026

Fires allowed ONLY in park provided concrete fire rings between Stairwells 15 and 20. Do NOT make fire rings using rocks, logs or other items. When the Bay Area Air Quality Management District declares a Spare the Air Day, NO campfires, beach fires, or outdoor grills are allowed Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Golden Gate National Recreation Area encompasses a diverse range of landscapes, including coastal cliffs, forests, and historic sites. It attracts visitors for its scenic views, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks, such as Alcatraz Island and Muir Woods.

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The area is a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, offering trails for hiking and biking. Travelers often come to experience the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and explore the rich history of the region, including the remnants of military installations and the Sutro District.

In pictures

Mori Point view north with yellow an blue flowers, the blue-green Pacific Ocean and Mt. Tamalpais.
Mori Point view north with yellow an blue flowers, the blue-green Pacific Ocean and Mt. Tamalpais.

Things to do

Hawk Hill Birdwatching
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Birdwatching in the high hills of the Marin Headlands at Hawk Hill Overlook.

Rodeo Lagoon Birdwatching
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Birdwatching in Rodeo Lagoon

Nike Missile Site in the Marin Headlands
30-90 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Visit and explore a Nike Missile site and learn about the role of the military installations here in the Marin...

Visit the New Industries Building
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Visit the New Industries Building to see exhibits on Prison Labor and the commemorative exhibit, Red Power on...

Hike the Bolinas Ridge Trail
1-11 Hours · Winter/Spring

Admire redwood forests and expansive views of the Olema Valley on this dog-friendly, multi-use trail. This up-...

Walk the Cross Marin Trail
1-5 Hours · Winter/Spring

The up-to-10.6-miles- roundtrip Cross Marin Trail is a relatively flat, easy trail that follows the historic N...

Bike the Bolinas Ridge Trail
1-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

Enjoy open, grassy hillsides, redwood forests, decent climbs, and bumpy downhills on this multi-use trail. Thi...

Presidio Birdwatching
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Birdwatching in the Presidio.

Crissy Field Birdwatching
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Birdwatching in Crissy Field

Archives Visit
1-3 Hours · Winter/Spring

Always open by reservation, The Park Archives and Records Center is excited to host visitors, researchers, and...

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge
1-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

Bike the Golden Gate Bridge!

Torpedo Wharf Fishing
1-4 Hours · Winter/Spring

Fishing at Torpedo Wharf near Fort Point and Crissy Field.

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1972
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
Varies by location, some areas wheelchair accessible
Address
Golden Gate National Recreation Area, San Francisco, CA 94123
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
415-561-4700
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Parking can be limited, especially on weekends.
Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly.
Some trails may be steep and require sturdy footwear.
Reservations are recommended for popular sites like Alcatraz.

Photo: NPS photo/Will Elder