Kirby Cove Campground is typically open Spring through Fall.
Descend through a grove of cypress, eucalyptus and pine to a one-of-a-kind view of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay as you look east to a panorama view of the city. The steep, mile-long trail to the cove begins at the parking area above Battery Spencer on Conzelman Road, which is eye-level with the bridge's towers.
Kirby Cove features a reservable day-use site and five overnight campsites. Each campsite can accommodate up to 10 people (parking restricted to three vehicles per site). The day-use site can accommodate up to 35 people (parking restricted to four vehicles). Pit toilets, barbecue pits, picnic tables, and fire rings are available, but there's no potable water.
Tips and Highlights
- Although campsites are available by reservation only, the public is invited to walk the trail and picnic on the beach or bluffs. No pets are allowed at Kirby Cove.
- Walk in your own water, and plan on an uphill walk back up from the cove.
- Campground reservations go quickly, make sure to reserve well in advance at recreation.gov.
- Scan the skies in autumn for migrating hawks, kestrels, harriers, falcons, and other raptors.
- The waves are usually gentle on this beach, but there is no lifeguard.
- Explore Battery Kirby (1898-1934) by the cove's beach.
- Kirby Cove presents challenges to visitors with disabilities. Arrangements can be made in advance to allow vehicle access to the picnic site for disabled guests with a valid DMV placard; call (415) 331-1540.
