Presidio of San Francisco050

This was the Spaniards' first outpost when they claimed the San Francisco Bay for themselves in 1776. Two centuries later in 1994, the 1,500 acre Presidio was converted from the oldest active military post in the United States to a National Park. It remains the city's largest green space and is a treasure for nature buffs and military history enthusiasts alike.

A good starting point for new visitors is Julius Kahn Park, a lovely playground that also offers opportunities to explore the woods behind it. Other popular spots well worth a visit include Baker Beach, a broad beach with a striking view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and Crissy Field, a stretch of dunes and water right next to the Marina Green.

For a general introduction to the Park, stop by the Visitor Center in the old Officers' Club at 50 Moraga Avenue to get information and see if one of the Park rangers who host is leading a guided tour past some of the most popular attractions. Among other things, you can visit the garrison at Fort Point; the Presidio Museum, which houses artifacts from the time of California's Spanish rule to World War II; an original log cabin; free standing cannons at Pershing Square on the Main Post on Montgomery Street, or the San Francisco National Military Cemetery. Use the "Kids on Trails" trail guide, available at the Visitor Center, to walk the Ecology Trail.

The Presidio is better for walking than biking if you've got kids in tow. It's hilly and there's quite a bit of traffic on the main roads. We recommend looking at the map on the Park website, driving to one of the more remote areas, and then getting out to hike and take in the peace and quiet.

Parties: Host a birthday party or picnic at the nearly hidden El Polin Spring, a former well during the years of where the Spanish once got their water occupation. From Presidio Blvd. turn onto MacArthur Drive, then turn left into El Polin Loop and follow until it dead-ends into the park. Another nice party place is Julius Kahn Playground, which has a Recreation Center you can use. Call the City of San Francisco Recreation and Park Department to reserve it for your party. Camps: Lone Mountain Children's Center offers two one-week, half-day Summer Camp Sessions at its Presidio location, behind the former Public Health Hospital at 15th Avenue and Lake Street. To be eligible, a preschool age child must have turned three by February, and have had some prior preschool experience. The summer camp offers a variety of art and crafts projects, stories, and as much outdoor time as weather permits.