Fort Point was first garrisoned in February of 1861 and occupied throughout the Civil War. Made obsolete by faster rifled cannons, troops were withdrawn in 1886. The fort was used for storage and training purposes for many years.

Between 1933 and 1937 the fort was used as a base of operations for the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge. During World War II, Fort Point was occupied by about 100 soldiers as part of the protection of a submarine net strung across the entrance to the Bay.

Recreation - This site provides access to history exhibits, walking, picnicking, fishing and touring historic structures. A good place to gather information about the site is in the visitor center. Exhibits in the visitor center focus on Nineteenth century military architecture, armament and soldier life, African American soldier experience, women in U.S. military history and the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Fantastic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay and the Marin Headlands can be seen from the barbette tier. Easy access to the Golden Gate Promenade and Coastal Trail are also available from this site. Ranger-guided tours and cannon drills are scheduled daily. Crabbing programs are offered March through October. Candlelight tours of the Fort are offered during the evenings November through February.

Climate - The weather at Fort Point is generally cool and windy. Summer months can be cold, with the fog rolling into San Francisco Bay. Winters are generally cold with variable precipitation. Spring and Fall generally offer the best weather. Dress warmly for your visit, with layers of clothing and good walking shoes.

Location - Fort Point is located beneath the south anchorage of the Golden Gate Bridge in the Presidio of San Francisco, California.

LAT: 37.8104843
LONG: -122.4766388