Mcnear Peninsula Waterfront Park
Rate this placeNearby: Walnut Park Wickersham Park
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
McNear Peninsula Waterfront Park is located in San Rafael, California, and offers visitors a scenic view of the San Francisco Bay.
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Summary
The park is an ideal destination for individuals and families looking to spend time outdoors, take a walk, or have a picnic with friends. The park is spread across 55 acres of land, with several points of interest to explore.
One of the park's most popular attractions is the McNear Brickyard, which was a major brick manufacturing facility in the late 19th century and early 20th century. The facility operated from 1894 to 1946 and played a significant role in the development of San Francisco. Visitors can explore the remains of the brick kilns and the brickyard chimney, which are now designated as historic landmarks.
Another point of interest is the wetlands trail, which offers a scenic walk along the marshland and a chance to observe local wildlife, including birds, fish, and other animals. The park also has playgrounds, picnic areas, and a large grassy area perfect for playing sports or flying kites.
The best time to visit the McNear Peninsula Waterfront Park is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is pleasant, and the park is in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views of the bay, take a walk along the wetlands trail, and explore the historic brickyard. The park is open daily from 8 am to sunset and is free to the public.
In conclusion, the McNear Peninsula Waterfront Park is a must-visit destination for individuals and families looking to spend time outdoors and explore the rich history of San Rafael, California. With its scenic views, historic landmarks, and recreational facilities, the park offers something for everyone.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
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