John McLaren Park - San Francisco, California

Blank B.

Wow, what an incredible park!!! I entered from the backside, and I was immediately stricken by the views. I wandered around for a bit, found several places to sit, tons of shade, plenty of people about. I am excited to come back.

There was shaded picnic tables along the trails, and then a whole section of the park dedicated to them. There was 2 playgrounds. They both looked nice and kids were using them. For clarification, the picture I included of the turtles was just of some art I spotted along one of the trails, not the playground. As for restrooms, before I went in there was a city truck just leaving so I think it had just been cleaned. I think they are well-maintained. However, I would add a trash can if they don't want people flushing down things they shouldn't. There was also a pond and an amphitheater. There was construction happening, which I kind of enjoyed.

After I spent a while on one side of the park, I looked up the bus stop to go home, and as I was walking to it, I realized how vast the park was. So many trails, and the hills provide for great angles of the city and neighborhoods. I fully recommend this for park lovers.

Allan Gaia Candelore

What a gem! They're quite a few bodies of water, so many birds, and many trails!!

I hiked up it today in the rain, and had to leave a bit early,, This park is calling me back, she has a strong presence ?

Krishin Asnani

Like embarking on some treasure hunt, I came here from Russian hill to find its tennis courts for a few sets with friends who chose this venue ;
It’s otherworldly as if out of a fairytale. Quiet , eerie and peaceful - all at once!

Eddie Corwin

Great place to walk dogs - very large off leash area. A coupe good playgrounds for kids and picnic areas. Tennis and pickleball courts, golf course. Amphitheatre with shows in the summer or for kids to play on / preform. Good views of San Francisco, Daily City, Brisbane and the bay.

Iqbal Hussain

This is one of the best parks I've ever been to. Spread over 300 acres there is something for everyone whether you love nature or like to take the pet dog out for a walk on a trail surrounded by cypress, pine, and eucalyptus trees. There are paved and unpaved trails for walking where you can get a stunning view of parts of the Bay area. There are a couple of duck ponds where you can see the ducks waddling away as well as the Jerry Garcia amphitheatre used to stage plays by school kids and to have other community events. There is also a separate play area for small children as well as space for family picnics. On the perimeter of the park you have the wonderfully named paved looped trail called the Philosopher's Way where people can rest and take in the view. There are several tennis courts, a large baseball practice area, and a nine hole golf course. Toilets are clean and conveniently located.
People living in the area may complain about the amount of local and community taxes they have to pay but when you have places like the John McLaren park in your neighborhood you should count your blessings. A daily walk or jog here is a real joy that you'll be hard pressed to find in other urban environments.
It's a well kept secret for the neighborhood residents who probably want to keep it that way instead of having crowds come and spoil the rustic charm of this park.

Inna Velyka

So great place! My child live it! In the middle of the park - that is why many birds and tries. Truly recommend!

carguybikeguy

This park is two blocks away from my children’s school. They spend a good portion of their educational time in and around this park. My oldest class has often built TP like structures, so that they can have classroom instruction outdoors in their own little space. Even when they’re not in school, they ask to come here and explore. My children are amazing little hikers and have shown me much more of the park than I ever would’ve discovered on my own. There are numerous playgrounds. Our favorite is the newly refurnished Redwood Playground. But there are several ideal for all ages of kids. In addition to decent picnic areas you may reserve with Rec and Parks.

While we are there, one of our favorite activities, if we are not hiking or playing, at one of the several playgrounds is to construct fairy houses out of found fallen limbs, leaves, moss, eucalyptus leaves, and other found things. When my youngest gets especially creative, he asks me to bring my bow saw, hatchet, and mallet so we can manufacture the pieces we need for his grand ideas.
So between the little teepees the classes build together, and my children’s thoughtfully built færie houses, you will find little structures throughout the park. Be careful! They are færie houses after all!
Also great for doggos and finding peace.
Drive slowly and enjoy.

Beatriz Lim

Great park! Lovely place to take your dog on a walk along the pavement or on the trail. When it’s clear, there’s gorgeous views of the city on one side and the water on the other. They also have free tennis courts that are available to book online!