Baker Beach -- a GGNRA-managed area a mile or so south of the Golden Gate Bridge. Take Lincoln Boulevard west and turn north on Bowley Street. There are both on- and off-leash areas so watch for the signs. This is as close as you'll get to the ocean side of the Bridge so it's almost always cool and breezy.

Golden Gate Park -- Two off-leash areas are available: Walk in near 39th Avenue & Fulton Street or drive in at 38th Avenue to a fenced area near the Bison field. The fence is low so be alert for a dog that may want to jump it. The area can become very muddy during the rainy season. The second off-leash spot is near the intersection of Stanyan & Fulton Streets. The big drawback is that this is a popular spot for people-pooping. Since dogs tend to go for a treat like that, be prepared! Yuck!!

Land's End -- another GGNRA-managed area that is definitely on-leash!! Take El Camino del Mar until it ends, or follow Ocean Drive past the Cliff House.

Mountain Lake Park -- The best and most spectacular dog-park in S.F. Enter at 8th Avenue and Lake Street to reach the dog-run area, or 9th Avenue to find the wheel-chair access and doggy water fountain. The off-leash area is between two signs on the east side of the park.

Ocean Beach -- This is not exactly a park -- it's the whole beach, but it is GGNRA-managed so it is mostly on-leash. Dogs are allowed off-leash south of Sloat Boulevard or North of Fulton Street, but beware that these areas may become impassable at high tide!! DO NOT let your dog stray or you're in for it with the NPS rangers!! There are also a lot of washed-up breach critters which dogs love to roll in, so unless you want a stinky dog in your car . . .! Which reminds me, parking is a problem. Try to find a spot between Fulton and Lincoln Way and be prepared for cold breezes, even in the warmest months.