Fort Baker

 
FOBA Marina and Grounds Stephen Kasierski
 

Fort Baker, the 9th and final "Post-to-Park" conversion in the Golden Gate National Parks, is a 335 acre former 1905 U.S. Army post located immediately north of the Golden Gate Bridge. This hidden gem of a site consists of over 25 historic army buildings clustered around a main parade ground, a sheltered harbor protected by a jetty, a number of historic gun emplacements, and trails and forested areas climbing gently up from San Francisco Bay.

Tips and Highlights

  • Go fishing and crabbing off the pier at Horseshoe Cove; no fishing license required.
  • Launch your kayak or sailboat at the at the boat ramp in Horseshoe Cove. Sailing lessons and boat rentals are available at the small yacht harbor.
  • Hike Drown Road and the Chapel Steps Trail for a moderate 1 mile loop.
  • There are easy walks along the waterfront and along the bluffs-all have spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay.
  • Explore seacoast fortifications at Battery Yates on the eastern bluffs.
  • Look out for the variety of wildlife and plant species at Fort Baker, including the endangered Mission Blue butterfly and its host plant, the silver lupine. At Horseshoe Cove and the fishing pier one can spot shorebirds, sea lions and harbor seals.
  • Please park along the waterfront at Horseshoe Cove or at the trailhead at Drown Road, located off of East Road.
  • Many cyclists approach Fort Baker on Conzelman Road from the Golden Gate Bridge. There are relatively flat routes around Murray Circle and along the waterfront. A short but steep climb takes you to the access road to Sausalito.
 

Looking For More Information

Map of Fort Baker area

Fort Baker Map

Marin Headlands/Fort Baker Map provides you with road and trails info.

Historic photo of cannons at Fort Baker

Fort Baker History

Learn about the history of Fort Baker.

View across Horseshoe Cove with Golden Gate Bridge behind

Horseshoe Cove Self Guide

The historical and natural significance of Horseshoe Cove history walk.

Sign for cell phone tour stop with tree trunks behind

Fort Baker Cell Phone Tour

Take this audio tour to learn about historic Fort Baker.

Historic photo of baseball player on Fort Baker parade ground

Parade Ground Self Guide

Learn about army innovations a Fort Baker's Parade Ground.

Grassy lawn of restored parade ground with restored buildings and flagpole behind

Parade Grounds Restoration

Read about the Restoration of Parade Grounds at Fort Baker.

Scenic view of Fort Baker

Dog Information Page

Visit our page to learn more about this designated on-leash dog walking area.

View of rehabilitated whate officers' quarters with red roof

Architectural Style

Identify these elements on the buildings at Fort Baker.

California poppies in front of the Fort Baker chapel

National Parks Conservancy

Visit the Parks Conservancy website for more information.

 

Park Partners at Fort Baker

Bay Discovery Museum

Bay Discovery Museum

Discover and create at this indoor/outdoor children's museum at Fort Baker

Cavallo Point

Cavallo Point

Cavallo Point offers contemporary-style and restored historic lodging options.

U.S. Coast Guard Station Golden Gate

U.S. Coast Guard Station Golden Gate

The U.S. Coast Guard protects the public, the environment, and national security.

Travis AFB Sailing Marina Center (Presidio Yacht Club)

Travis AFB Sailing Marina Center

Since the end of the War, the Travis Marina has opened up for civilian use.

Last updated: May 21, 2026

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Golden Gate National Recreation Area
201 Fort Mason

San Francisco, CA 94123

Phone:

415-561-4700
United States Park Police Dispatch: Non-Emergency: 415-561-5505 Emergency: 415-561-5656

Contact Us