Crane Cove Park in San Francisco’s Dog Patch neighborhood opened a brand-new playground last month, and it has quickly become one of our favorite stops on stroller runs around the city.
We’ve lived in Mission Bay long enough to remember when Crane Cove was still a construction site, blocked off by heavy fencing. When the park first opened, we loved skipping rocks at the small beach, playing in the open field, and learning about the area’s industrial past. Still, it always felt like something was missing , a playground (and an indoor bathroom!).
In 2023, we unexpectedly joined a San Francisco Port Authority community walk through Mission Bay and learned that the original plans did include a playground. Unfortunately, park funds ran out before it could be built, so Crane Cove opened without one.
Even without a playground, Crane Cove was already a beautiful park with incredible views and rich history. But last winter, when we spotted playground equipment finally going up, I was thrilled. It felt like the missing piece was finally falling into place, and I knew Crane Cove would become a more regular stop for our family.
Crane Cove Park – Know Before You Go
- Location: 18th Street & Illinois Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
- Unique Feature: Large rope jungle gym with a slide overlooking the Bay
- Fenced In: No , the playground opens onto a grassy field overlooking the beach and sits next to a driveway used for loading and unloading water gear
- Surface: Astroturf
- Bathrooms: Yes, located next to the YMCA
- Lunch Tables & Seating: Concrete block seating surrounds the playground; picnic tables are located on the opposite side of the YMCA
- Shade: Limited , some shade is cast by the YMCA building
- Parking: Street parking (likely metered)
- Public Transportation: T Line Stop on 20th Street
What We Love: The playground and park offer plenty to do, all with incredible waterfront views.
Cons: The playground requires close supervision for younger kids, as it sits right next to an active driveway.
Crane Cove Tot Lot & Rigger’s Yard
The playgrounds are located on the north side of Crane Cove, overlooking the beach. The tot lot is the most eye-catching area, featuring a towering neon-pink rope structure topped with a massive tunnel slide.
The playground includes:
- A large rope play tower with a slide
- A smaller, fort-style structure designed for younger children
- An accessible merry-go-round (that spins surprisingly fast!)
- A swing
The views of the Bay and East Bay are truly unparalleled , easily some of the best of any playground in San Francisco. It’s a wonderful place to relax while watching cargo ships cross the water, and I highly recommend stopping by before a Warriors game or anytime you’re in the area.
I’ll admit, I didn’t initially realize that Rigger’s Yard was considered part of the playground. The ghost piles resemble public art installations commonly seen around Mission Bay, and they didn’t immediately capture my kids’ attention. Still, they add to the park’s industrial character and sense of place.
Other Fun Things to Do at Crane Cove
- Read about Crane Cove’s history as a former shipyard
- Have a picnic at the south end of the park
- Check out the Big Art Loop instalment
- Kayak or paddleboard along the waterfront
Crane Cove Park continues to evolve, and this new playground truly completes the space. It’s now one of the most scenic and enjoyable places in the city to play, relax, and soak in San Francisco’s waterfront views.
Looking for More Things to Do in Mission Bay?
If you’re exploring Crane Cove, be sure to check out my other blog posts featuring free and family-friendly things to do around Mission Bay. From waterfront walks and parks to library stops and hidden neighborhood gems, Mission Bay is full of simple outings that are perfect for families with kids of all ages.
You can find more Mission Bay ideas right here on the blog , perfect for pairing with a playground visit or stroller-friendly city day.
Seven Founding Hills 
Leave a comment