In the Marin headlands adjacent to the city of Sausalito, California, the United States Army maintained a fort for coastal defense. Fort Baker was part of a system of forts in and around San Francisco Bay. President Millard Fillmore set aside the area for military purposes in 1850, but the Army first acquired the land that would become Fort Baker in 1866. At that time, the Army occupied it as the Lime Point Military Reservation. In 1897, the reservation became Fort Baker, and in 2002 the Fort was transferred from the military to the National Park Service. An active Coast Guard station also operates on the grounds of Fort Baker.
Battery Yates
The U. S. military began a modernization effort under the direction of the Endicott Board in 1885, and one of the Board’s priorities was harbor defense. Thus, in 1903 Battery Yates was constructed overlooking the harbor. The battery included six M1902 three-inch rifles, and is situated on the bluffs just east of Fort Baker. The guns were taken down and dismantled in 1943; however, the concrete emplacements are still in there. The emplacements are a short hike from the main buildings of the fort, and the view from the battery is impressive.
Cavallo Point
Many national parks feature lodging, often in historic buildings, and Fort Baker is no exception. The Cavallo Point Lodge at Fort Baker features 68 historic accommodations retrofitted to meet modern standards for safety and comfort. These buildings were originally officers’ quarters and facilities supporting the military operations at Fort Baker. 74 additional accommodations have also been built with a contemporary theme, and the Cavallo Point Lodge is now seeking LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) from the United States Green Building Council. With LEED certification, the visitor will know that the buildings are constructed and maintained with green principles in mind. At the Lodge, visitors will find first-class restaurants, a spa, and a cooking school, as well.
Outdoors at Fort Baker
Seals and sea lions can often be seen in and around the harbor. Fort Baker is home to the mission blue butterfly, protected by the Endangered Species Act of 1973. At some times of the year, the visitor may see this beautiful butterfly on and around the silver lupines it prefers as a host plant. There are several short hikes one can take around the grounds and along the waterfront. Kayaking and sailing adventures can be arranged at the harbor, as well. In addition, the Bay Area Discovery Museum on the grounds at Fort Baker offers Bay walks, classes, programs, and performances designed to enhance its mission of engaging children with the environment in and around San Francisco Bay. The Institute at the Golden Gate brings together professionals, partner organizations, and volunteers to promote and protect the natural resources in and around the Bay Area.
Because it is so close to San Francisco and the headlands around the Golden Gate Bridge, Fort Baker is a perfect place for a vacation close to the vibrant, urban environment of the cities around the Bay. At the same time, Fort Baker offers the visitor a unique place to experience nature in Northern California.
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