TOP 10 Wildlife watching parking areas in San Francisco, California

Bayside Park, located in Marin County, California, is a serene and picturesque park situated along the shores of the San Pablo Bay. This waterfront park offers stunning views of the bay and the surrounding natural beauty of the area. Visitors can enjoy walking along the scenic trails, having a picnic in the designated areas, or simply relaxing and taking in the peaceful atmosphere. Bayside Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.

China Camp Point Picnic Area is a beautiful park located in San Rafael, California, along the shore of the San Pablo Bay. Visitors can enjoy stunning waterfront views, meadows, oak habitats, and a variety of wildlife such as deer, squirrels, coyotes, and numerous birds. The park also features an extensive intertidal salt marsh, where endangered species like the California clapper rail and salt marsh harvest mouse can be found. The park has a rich history, with a Chinese shrimp-fishing village thriving on the site in the 1880s. The museum at China Camp Village tells the story of these hardy shrimp fishermen. Visitors can also explore the beach, swim, picnic, and enjoy activities like wildlife-watching, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

Avalon Park is a serene and picturesque tourist attraction located at 324 Avalon Drive in South San Francisco, California. Nestled in the heart of the city, this park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With lush greenery, winding pathways, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape, Avalon Park is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to read a book, take a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoy a picnic with loved ones, Avalon Park has something for everyone. So come and explore this hidden gem in South San Francisco and experience the beauty and tranquility of Avalon Park for yourself.

Corona Heights Park, located in San Francisco, California, offers some of the best views in the city. Visitors can enjoy a carpet of wildflowers in the spring, including checkerbloom, California poppy, and Douglas iris. The park is also home to the sensitive Johnny jump-up flower, which is the only host plant for the callippe silverspot butterfly. Keep an eye out for the anise swallowtail butterfly, known for frequenting the hilltops of San Francisco. The one-mile trail network at Corona Heights Park winds around the hill and leads to the summit, providing a 360° view of the San Francisco Bay Area. The trails consist of stable, sometimes steep, dirt paths with box step staircases. The trail leading down to the 15th Street tennis courts is the most challenging section with steep terrain and loose gravel.

McLaren Park is a sprawling urban oasis located at 2075 Burrows Street in San Francisco, California. This beautiful park offers visitors a peaceful escape from the city with its lush green spaces, scenic walking trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities, McLaren Park is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, play a game of soccer, or simply enjoy a quiet moment in nature, McLaren Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Brooks Park, located at 373 Ramsell Street in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Farallones, and Mt. Tamalpais. Once home to a variety of wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, and foxes, the park still has native plants that were once used by Native Americans. The park has a rich history, with the land originally part of Rancho San Miguel owned by Jose de Jesus Noe. The Brooks family purchased a half-acre site on the hilltop in the 1920s, and Mrs. Brooks was known for her organic gardening practices. After falling into disrepair, the Friends of Brooks Park formed in 1987 to revitalize the park, leading to the acquisition of surrounding land and the enlargement of the park. Today, the park features a community garden, native plant restoration, and environmental education programs. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and learn about the park's history and conservation efforts. To report any maintenance issues or vandalism, visitors can call 311 or visit the park's website.

Coyote Point Recreation Area is a picturesque park and popular tourist attraction located at 1701 Coyote Point Drive in San Mateo, California, United States. This stunning waterfront park offers breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay and features a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including picnic areas, playgrounds, walking and biking trails, a marina, and a beach for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can also explore the CuriOdyssey science and wildlife center, which offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or an adventure-filled outing, Coyote Point Recreation Area has something for everyone to enjoy.

Grizzly Peak Park is a stunning natural oasis nestled in the hills of Berkeley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in this peaceful and picturesque park. With its convenient location at 50 Whitaker Avenue, Grizzly Peak Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Terrace View Park is a stunning park located at 1421 Queens Road in Berkeley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge. The park features well-maintained walking paths, lush greenery, and plenty of benches for visitors to relax and take in the scenery. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy a picnic or a picturesque backdrop for your Instagram photos, Terrace View Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and sightseers alike.

Benicia State Recreation Area is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 1 State Park Road in Benicia, California, United States. Visitors can enjoy 2 1/2 miles of road and bike paths for cycling, running, walking, horseback riding, and roller skating. Picnicking, bird watching, and fishing are also popular activities at the park. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. The marshland area on Dillon’s Point is a favorite spot for fishing. A parking fee is required for visitors. Three "Enroute" campsites are available for overnight stays on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to motorhomes or vehicles with trailers that are fully self-contained. Tents are not allowed. It is prohibited to collect or destroy anything in the park, including mushrooms. Online reservations are not available for this park. The weather in the area can be changeable, so layered clothing is recommended. To reach the park, take the Columbus Parkway exit on I-780, 1.5 miles west of the outskirts of Benicia. Latitude/Longitude: 38.0780/ -122.1926.

San Leandro Marina Park is a beautiful waterfront park located in San Leandro, California. Situated at 1653 Mulford Point Drive, this park is a popular tourist attraction for both locals and visitors alike. With stunning views of the marina and the San Francisco Bay, this park offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, walking, biking, fishing, and bird watching in this serene setting. The park also features a playground, picnic areas, and a marina with boat rentals. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or a fun outdoor adventure, San Leandro Marina Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Coyote Hills Regional Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 8000 Patterson Ranch Road in Fremont, California. This park, dedicated in 1967, covers 1,266 acres of marshland and rolling grassland-covered hills along the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay. The park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, jogging, bicycling, bird watching, nature exploration, and picnicking. The park is open year-round, with different gate hours depending on the season. The Visitor Center is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Visitors can enjoy educational displays and exhibits at the Visitor Center, which also houses the Possum's Pocket Nature Store. Naturalist-led programs and tours highlight the park's cultural and natural history. The park also features picnic areas with barbeque braziers, water, and shade. The Hoot Hollow picnic area is available for group reservations.

Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is a serene park located at 40500 Paseo Padre Parkway in Fremont, California. This beautiful nature area offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, tranquil lagoons, and scenic walking paths, Stivers Lagoon Nature Area is the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or have a picnic with family and friends, this park has something for everyone. Come and explore the natural beauty of Stivers Lagoon Nature Area today!

Riverview Park is a picturesque park located at 2 Riverview Dr in Pittsburg, California, United States. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the surrounding area, including the beautiful Delta waterways. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the walking paths, have a picnic in the lush green spaces, or even take part in outdoor activities such as fishing or boating. With its peaceful atmosphere and scenic vistas, Riverview Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind amidst nature.

Diablo Foothills Regional Park is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 1700 Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek, California. The park is open from 5am-10pm, with parking lot hours varying throughout the year. The park is a gateway to the beautiful parklands of Mount Diablo State Park and Walnut Creek Open Space, offering sweeping panoramas of the San Francisco Bay Region and rural grasslands. The park features diverse habitats supporting a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, and a range of bird species. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, and nature study in the park's 1,060 acres. The Castle Rock Recreation Area within the park offers reservable group picnic areas and a swimming pool complex that is fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Frederick Street Park is a charming and picturesque park located at 168 Frederick Street in Santa Cruz, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with lush greenery, beautiful flower gardens, and scenic walking paths. Visitors can relax on the benches, have a picnic, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The park is also a great spot for families, with a playground for children to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind or a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll, Frederick Street Park is the perfect destination.

Redwood Picnic Area is a charming outdoor facility located at 200 John F Shelley Drive in San Francisco, California. Surrounded by majestic redwood trees, this picturesque picnic area offers a tranquil and serene setting for visitors to enjoy a meal or gather with friends and family. With plenty of picnic tables, BBQ pits, and scenic views, Redwood Picnic Area is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out in nature. Whether you're looking to have a peaceful solo picnic or host a lively gathering, this institution provides the ideal backdrop for a memorable outdoor experience in the heart of San Francisco.

Seal Point Park is a picturesque waterfront park located at 1901 J Hart Clinton Drive in San Mateo, California. This popular tourist attraction offers stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including seals that can often be seen lounging on the rocks. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for children. Whether you're looking to relax by the water, take in the beautiful scenery, or get some exercise outdoors, Seal Point Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Salt Point State Park, located in Jenner, California, offers a unique coastal experience with rocky promontories, panoramic views, and kelp-dotted coves. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, skin and SCUBA diving, and camping. The park features 20 miles of hiking trails, six miles of rugged coastline, and an underwater park. Dogs are allowed on-leash in certain areas of the park. The park also offers campgrounds with fire-rings, picnic tables, and food lockers. Reservations are recommended for camping, as the campgrounds fill up quickly on weekends. The park is known for its sandstone and Tafoni formations, as well as its diverse marine life. Visitors can explore tide pools, go fishing, or launch small boats in the marine reserve. Hazardous tree conditions are present in the park due to pitch pine canker, so visitors are advised to be cautious of standing dead trees. Admission to the park is $8.00 per vehicle, with camping fees ranging from $5.00 to $35.00 per night. Located approximately 90 miles north of San Francisco, Salt Point State Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Año Nuevo State Park, located at 1 New Years Creek Road in Pescadero, California, is a popular tourist attraction known for its elephant seal viewing opportunities. From April to November, visitors can enjoy a self-guided walk along the Año Point Trail to observe up to 10,000 elephant seals as they breed, give birth, and molt their skin on the scenic dunes and beaches. The park also features the Marine Education Center, housed in a historic dairy ranch, offering natural history exhibits and a bookstore. The park's diverse natural and cultural resources attract visitors from around the world, with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking along ocean bluffs, and exploring the remains of a 19th-century lighthouse on Año Nuevo Island. The park's terrain includes coastal prairie, wetland marshes, and dune fields, providing habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including the endangered San Francisco Garter Snake and California Red-legged Frog.

Boyle Park is a picturesque and serene park located at 11 East Drive in Mill Valley, California. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, scenic walking trails, and beautiful picnic spots, Boyle Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or simply soak up the natural beauty of the surroundings, Boyle Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the tranquility and charm of this hidden gem in the heart of Mill Valley.

The Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End is a breathtaking tourist attraction located in San Francisco, California, United States. This stunning natural reserve offers visitors a chance to explore rugged cliffs, scenic coastal views, and historic landmarks. With miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife watching, this institution is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coastline at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area - Lands End.

Glen Canyon Park is a beautiful natural oasis located in the heart of San Francisco, California. This park offers a variety of hiking trails, lush greenery, and stunning views of the surrounding cityscape. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, birdwatching, and exploring the park's diverse plant and animal life. With its peaceful atmosphere and convenient location, Glen Canyon Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

San Bruno Mountain State & County Park is a stunning natural oasis located in Brisbane, California. This park offers visitors a chance to explore over 2,000 acres of preserved land, featuring a variety of hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area. With its diverse plant and animal life, including rare and endangered species, this park is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're looking to go on a leisurely stroll or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike, San Bruno Mountain State & County Park has something for everyone. Come and experience the beauty and tranquility of this hidden gem in the Bay Area.

Alviso Marina County Park is a picturesque park located at 1195 Hope Street in San Jose, California, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers stunning views of the marina and surrounding wetlands. Visitors can enjoy walking and biking trails, fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking in this tranquil and scenic setting. With its serene atmosphere and diverse wildlife, Alviso Marina County Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Located in Mill Valley, California, the Mt. Tamalpais State Park Visitor Center offers a gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Mount Tamalpais State Park. Visitors can explore the park's diverse landscapes, from cool redwood forests to sweeping hillsides, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding area, including the Farallon Islands and San Francisco Bay. The Visitor Center provides information on hiking trails, wildlife watching, and camping options, including reservations for campsites and lodging. Visitors can also learn about the history of the old Mount Tamalpais Scenic Railway at the Gravity Car Barn and enjoy outdoor plays at the Mountain Theater.

The Portola Redwoods State Park Visitor Center is a tranquil retreat nestled in the redwood forest at 9000 Portola State Park Road, La Honda, California. The center is open Monday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, offering information and resources for visitors to explore the park's 2,800 acres of stunning natural beauty. With 18 miles of trails, waterfalls, and campsites, the park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Silicon Valley. Dogs are welcome in designated areas, and online reservations can be made for camping and day use. The park is a haven for wildlife, including the endangered marbled murrelet, so visitors are encouraged to follow guidelines to protect the environment. Whether you're looking for a scenic hike, a camping adventure, or a chance to volunteer and give back to the community, Portola Redwoods State Park has something for everyone.

Mount Diablo State Park, located in Walnut Creek, California, is a popular tourist attraction and park known for its stunning views and recreational activities. The park has four entrances and offers camping and lodging reservations in advance. Visitors can enjoy cycling, hiking, and picnicking while taking in the breathtaking scenery from the summit, where you can see up to 200 miles on a clear day. The Summit Visitor Center showcases the park's cultural and natural history, while the Observation Deck provides a panoramic view. Dogs are not allowed on trails and fire roads, and drones are prohibited in the park. With safety measures in place, visitors can explore Rock City, Mitchell Canyon, and Diablo Valley Overlook for a memorable experience. Remember to follow park rules, including no collecting of plants or wildlife. Share your feedback with the park staff and plan your visit to Mount Diablo State Park for a memorable outdoor adventure.

Pine Lake Park, located at 100 Vale Avenue in San Francisco, California, is a beautiful tourist attraction and park that offers a serene escape in the midst of the city. The park is currently undergoing repair work in certain areas due to a transmission line failure, overseen by the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission. Pine Lake Park is nestled in a valley with steep, forested slopes and is home to one of the few remaining natural lakes in San Francisco, Pine Lake. The lake is fed by the same aquifer as Lake Merced and is surrounded by willow, tule, and other wetland plants that provide habitat for a variety of resident and migratory bird species. A scenic trail encircles the lake, offering opportunities for bird watching and connecting to the larger trail network that winds through Stern Grove and the Bay Area Ridge Trail.

Mount Tamalpais State Park, located in Mill Valley, California, is a stunning natural oasis just north of San Francisco. This park offers a variety of landscapes to explore, from redwood forests to open grasslands, all with breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and wildlife watching, as well as learn about the park's history at the East Peak Visitor Center and Gravity Car Barn. Camping options are available at Pantoll or Bootjack Campgrounds, with group campsites and rustic cabins also offered. Dogs are allowed in certain areas, but must be kept on leash. The park is a popular destination, so arriving early is recommended to avoid crowds. With its diverse ecosystems and rich history, Mount Tamalpais State Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.