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Bison Paddock: A Glimpse of the American West in Golden Gate Park

Witness the majesty of American bison in an unexpected urban oasis. A testament to conservation in Golden Gate Park since 1891.

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The Bison Paddock in Golden Gate Park offers a surprising encounter with American bison in the heart of San Francisco. Since 1891, these majestic animals have roamed within the park, serving as a reminder of the country's wild heritage and conservation efforts.

A brief summary to Bison Paddock

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Bring binoculars for a closer view of the bison, as they may be grazing towards the back of the paddock.
  • Visit during the morning hours for a quieter experience and optimal viewing conditions.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Japanese Tea Garden or a visit to the California Academy of Sciences.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the California Academy of Sciences, walk west along John F. Kennedy Drive for approximately 15 minutes. The Bison Paddock will be on your right. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Union Square, take the Muni 5 bus towards Ocean Beach. Get off at Fulton St & 28th Ave, which is near the Paddock. From there, walk south on 28th Ave, then turn left onto John F Kennedy Drive. The Bison Paddock will be on your right. The Muni fare is $3.

  • Driving

    Enter Golden Gate Park via Fulton Street and 30th Avenue. Turn south onto 30th Avenue, then make a left onto John F. Kennedy Drive. The Bison Paddock will be on the right-hand side. Limited free parking is available along JFK Drive. Alternatively, paid parking is available at the Music Concourse Garage, accessible from ভেতরে Martin Luther King Jr. Drive across from the Botanical Garden, or from Fulton Street at 10th Avenue. Parking rates are approximately $5.25 per hour on weekdays and $6.25 per hour on weekends.

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Discover more about Bison Paddock

Nestled within Golden Gate Park, the Bison Paddock provides a unique opportunity to witness a herd of American bison grazing peacefully. This unexpected sight offers a connection to the American West and highlights the park's long-standing commitment to wildlife conservation. The story of the Bison Paddock dates back to the late 19th century when the bison population in North America dwindled to near extinction due to overhunting. In 1891, Golden Gate Park Superintendent John McLaren introduced a small herd to the park as part of a captive breeding program to help preserve the species. The first bison, a bull named Ben Harrison, arrived from a Kansas ranch. Within two years, Ben Harrison and the first female, Sarah Bernhardt, welcomed a calf, leading to an explosion in the park's bison population. Over the years, more than 500 calves were born in Golden Gate Park, playing a crucial role in saving the species from extinction. Originally, the bison were named after public figures, Shakespearean characters, and even members of the British Royal Family. Today, the herd consists entirely of females to maintain a manageable group dynamic. The bison are cared for by staff from the San Francisco Zoo & Gardens, who provide daily care, feeding, and veterinary services. The paddock itself is maintained by the San Francisco Recreation and Park Department. Visiting the Bison Paddock offers a serene escape and a chance to reflect on the importance of conservation. It's a living museum showcasing the dedication and care that can be achieved through conservation efforts.

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