National Recreation Area · California
Golden Gate National Recreation Area
Experience a park so rich it supports 19 distinct ecosystems with over 2,000 plant and animal species. Go for a hike, enjoy a vista, have a picnic or learn about the centuries of overlapping history from California’s indigenous cultures, Spanish colonialism, the Mexican Republic, US military expansion and the growth of San Francisco. All of this and more awaits you, so get out and find your park.
Things to do
- Arts and Culture
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Group Camping
- Fishing
- Saltwater Fishing
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Hiking
- Front-Country Hiking
- Horse Trekking
- Horseback Riding
- Living History
- Reenactments
- Junior Ranger Program
- Surfing
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Museum Exhibits
Weather & when to go
Winter is characterized by sporadic rain and cool weather punctuated by brilliant sunshine. In winter the grass greens. Trees and flowers dormant through winter start blooming in late February or early March and last until May or June. By July, summer fog predominates in most coastal areas of the park. Grasses and plants have now turned to the golden brown and muted grays characteristic of California summer and fall. September and October skies are clear and sunshine is abundant everywhere in the park.
Operating hours
Parking Lots
Although this urban park is accessible 24 hours a day in most areas, most parking lots are open between sunrise to sunset.
Day Use Areas
These areas are open from 6 a.m. until 1 hour after sunset. Marin County: - Conzelman Rd (west, between traffic circle and Field Rd.) - Kirby Cove (except registered campers with permits) - Muir Beach - Muir Beach Overlook - Stinson Beach San Francisco County - Fort Point (north of the gate and adjacent areas) - China Beach - Fort Mason – Black Point Stairway to Van Ness Ave. - Lands End - Sutro Heights Park
Muir Woods National Monument
Muir Woods National Monument is open daily with hours varying throughout the year. Please check the Muir Woods National Monument park website for the most current, up to date information. In accordance with CDC, state, and local public health guidance related to COVID-19, these hours and availability of programs may vary.
Point Bonita Lighthouse (beyond the tunnel)
We are currently open the following days/hours: Monday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday: CLOSED Thursday: CLOSED Friday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm Saturday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm Sunday: 12:30pm - 3:30pm
Nike Missile Site
The Nike Missile Site in the Marin Headlands is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 12pm to 3pm for demonstrations and programs, unless otherwise posted.
Battery Townsley
Battery Townsley is open every first Sunday of the month between 12:00pm to 4:00pm for guided tours.
Fort Point National Historic Site
Fort Point National Historic Site is open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm unless otherwise noted on Fort Point's website.
Campgrounds
Haypress Campground
Kirby Cove Campground
Hawk Campground
Bicentennial Campground
Rob Hill Campground
FAQ
- Is Golden Gate National Recreation Area free to visit?
- Golden Gate National Recreation Area does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Golden Gate National Recreation Area?
- Although this urban park is accessible 24 hours a day in most areas, most parking lots are open between sunrise to sunset.
- Do I need a reservation for Golden Gate National Recreation Area?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.