Picnic Areas

Explore picnic areas in Golden Gate Park, John McLaren Park, and numerous neighborhood parks across the city. Sites include amenities such as barbecue grills and tables, perfect for birthday parties and social gatherings. Larger open areas are also available for big groups and activities like kickball or jump houses.

Booking and Contact Information

Book your reservation online via the Picnic Area Directory , or call the reservation desk at 415-831-5500 (Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.). For specific inquiries, email RPDReservations@sfgov.org .

Sites may be reserved up to 90 days in advance . For dates further out, please contact the Permits office .

Fees

Review the current reservation and park impact fees: Picnic Impact Fees (PDF) .

Coyote Warning

April through August is coyote pup-rearing season. Before your visit, please check for active warnings at your chosen site: SFRPD Coyote Information .

Barbecue Grills

Charcoal grilling is strictly limited to sites with built-in grills. Single propane grills (tank size 1 quart or smaller) are permitted only in the following Golden Gate Park locations:

• 14th Avenue East Meadow
• Bunny Meadow
• Dahlia Dell
• Doughboy Meadow
• Elk Glen
• George Washington Grove
• Hellman Hollow
• Hoover Redwood Grove
• Lindley Meadow
• Marx Meadow
• Old Speedway Meadow
• Peacock Meadow
• Pioneer East Meadow
• Pioneer Log Cabin
• Robin Williams Meadow
• Blue Heron Lake Boathouse
• Strawberry Hill

Large Picnics (Groups over 100)

Gatherings exceeding 100 attendees require a Large Picnic Application . We recommend contacting us to confirm availability before applying.

Cancellations and Refunds

• Deadline: Changes must be made at least 10 business days prior to the event.
• Fees: Subject to a fee of the higher of $34 or 20% of the reservation cost.
• Refunds: An additional fee applies (higher of $17 or 20% of refund amount). Processing must go back to the original payment method.
• Short-Notice: No changes or cancellations are accepted within 10 business days of the event.