San Francisco Parks and Playgrounds

Use this guide to find parks and playgrounds in San Francisco where parents and kids can play and spend time outside together. Browse practical details to help you choose a place for your next outing.

Parks and playgrounds

  1. Nature play + bridge-view picnicPresidio Tunnel TopsPresidio · Nature playground + bridge-view picnic
  2. Hillside play + skyline lawnsMission Dolores ParkMission · Hillside play + skyline lawns
  3. Beach + accessible picnicCrissy FieldPresidio · Beach + accessible picnic
  4. Gardens + playgrounds + lakesGolden Gate ParkGolden Gate Park · Gardens + playgrounds + lakes
  5. Canyon nature + neighborhood playGlen Canyon ParkGlen Park · Canyon nature + neighborhood play
  6. Rooftop garden + playSalesforce ParkSoMa · Rooftop garden + play
  7. Terrace views + community gardenFrancisco ParkRussian Hill · Terrace views + community garden
  8. Hilltop play + picnicLafayette ParkPacific Heights · Hilltop play + picnic
  9. Playgrounds + lake + wild spaceMcLaren ParkMcLaren Park · Playgrounds + lake + wild space
  10. Inclusive play + recreation centerBernal Heights Recreation CenterBernal Heights · Inclusive play + recreation center
  11. Climbing + natural play + picnicMission Bay Kids ParkMission Bay · Climbing + natural play + picnic
  12. Playground + skatepark + poolBalboa ParkBalboa Park · Playground + skatepark + pool
  13. Bay paths + play + scienceCoyote Point Recreation AreaSan Mateo · about 20 miles from San Francisco · Bay promenade beside play and CuriOdyssey

Wildlife to look for nearby · July

These are examples of wildlife parents and kids may notice in parks and natural areas in and around San Francisco.

  1. Coastal wildflower seasonSuccessive yellow, white, pink, and purple blooms · Public coastal grassland and scrub edges
  2. Warm-season pollinatorsBees and butterflies moving among blooms · Flowering gardens, grassland, and scrub
  3. Coastal fogA low marine layer moving inland · Coastal overlooks and west-facing neighborhoods
See the seasonal nature calendar

Explore more in San Francisco

Find more family-friendly ideas and local guides for your city.

See San Francisco guides