Park · Golden Gate Park, San Francisco

Bison Paddock

Bison Paddock
Photo: zensan, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The paddock is a fenced enclosure along John F. Kennedy Drive. Visitors view the bison from the adjacent path. The site has operated since 1891.

Updated September 27, 2026On day 3 of San Francisco & the Coast

Visiting Bison Paddock: what to know

Tickets
Free
Time needed
10 to 20 minutes
Best time
Morning hours
Getting there
Walk or cycle inside Golden Gate Park

San Francisco itineraries with Bison Paddock

Day 3 of San Francisco & the Coast

Golden Gate Park

How Bison Paddock fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Japanese Tea GardenJapanese Tea Garden
  2. 10:15Stow Lake BoatingStow Lake
  3. 11:45Bison PaddockBison Paddock
See all 4 days
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Bison Paddock FAQs

Are the bison visible every day?

The animals are usually present but may move out of view at times.

Can visitors approach the bison?

No. The fence prevents close contact for safety.

Is the paddock open at night?

The area follows park hours and closes after dark.

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