Fort Winfield Scott
Fort Winfield Scott is located along the Presidio’s western shore which it once defended.
Fort Scott is set in a historic forest of cypress and eucalyptus trees in the western Presidio, with commanding views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s an easy walk from the Golden Gate Bridge.
Built between 1909 and 1912, for half a century this 30-acre campus held the headquarters for defending the Bay Area’s coastline. Today, it hosts homes and workplaces, an athletic field, Presidio Nursery, and the popular Log Cabin. Still more buildings await their future use.
Explore the hidden history of Fort Winfield Scott in with KQED’s Bay Curious.
Getting to Fort Winfield Scott
Fort Winfield Scott, San Francisco, CA
Fort Scott Parking
There are several paid lots at Fort Scott off Ralston Avenue, as well as a lots near the Log Cabin and Fort Scott Field.
Why We Love Fort Winfield Scott
Though just a short stroll from the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Scott is a quiet space where nature and history mix. You’ll see the earliest example of the Mission Revival architectural style at the Presidio, which set the precedent for white buildings with red roofs that is now typical of most Presidio buildings. And you might also see a Red-tailed hawk.
Accessibility at Fort Winfield Scott
Parking spots for those with mobility limitations are available near public buildings and visitor destinations. There is an accessible portable restroom near Fort Scott Field.
Insider Tip
This is a great spot for birdwatching. The historic parade ground comes alive every spring with native plants, including Smooth Owl’s Clover, once thought endangered. It’s not uncommon to see herons and hawks while enjoying a picnic on the lawn.
History and Nature at the Golden Gate
At the core of the 30-acre Fort Scott campus are 10 Mission Revival-style barracks around a historic parade ground, now an expansive natural habitat supporting native plants and animals, including herons and hawks.
History of Fort Winfield Scott
Fort Winfield Scott introduced the Mission Revival architectural style to the Presidio and was one of the largest construction projects in its history. It housed and trained 1,000 artillerymen who operated the nearby coastal gun batteries like Battery Chamberlin. For much of the 20th century, it was also the site of the Coast Artillery headquarters for the seacoast defenses around the Bay Area. Rendered obsolete by 1950, the guns were removed from the batteries, and Fort Scott was used for other Army purposes.
Hidden History
Tucked away in an attic of one of the barracks (Building 1216) are murals painted by the 21st Engineer Company in 1956-57 when their commanding officer decided the walls of their training room were too boring. Covering all phases of Army life in vivid color, they provide a rare glimpse into life at the Presidio in the 1950s. When the building is one day rehabilitated, we hope to make this art available to the public.
Fort Scott Field
Fort Scott Field can be used by the public. Scheduling for organized teams, leagues, schools, and private use is determined by lottery. Learn more on the Presidio playing fields page.
Special Events at the Log Cabin
The rustic Log Cabin at Fort Scott is one of San Francisco’s most popular wedding reception venues, with indoor and outdoor space and a view of the San Francisco skyline.
Presidio Nursery
Each year, Presidio Nursery at Fort Winfield Scott grows thousands of native plants for restoration sites around the park. They offer regular volunteer opportunities for the public.
Nearby Overlooks
If you’re looking for a photo of the western coastline that Fort Scott once defended, you’ll find it at the nearby Golden Gate Overlook and the Pacific Overlook.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is an accessible portable restroom near Fort Scott Field and additional restrooms in a building behind the basketball court. Additional restrooms are at the Golden Gate Bridge.
The closest place to buy food and beverages is the Round House Café at the Golden Gate Bridge.
Nature Notes
It’s our goal to make sure people can enjoy the Presidio’s natural beauty for generations to come. We work to protect native plants and animals while reducing our impact on the environment.
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Experience the Presidio
The Presidio is San Francisco’s national park site, with endless trails, fun events, and unforgettable vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge.
