A massive Steller sea lion hauled out at Pier 39 Friday, dwarfing the usual California sea lions and drawing crowds. Experts say keep your distance and watch via the webcam.

A mountain lion was seen Tuesday in Rohnert Park's G section. Police say there is no immediate threat while wildlife officials offer safety guidance.

An Oakland nonprofit sank roughly $3 million into a proposed 37‑acre Castro Valley nature camp. County panels denied permits after neighbors raised wildfire, water and traffic concerns; the nonprofit has appealed.

Peninsula Open Space Trust bought the Bechtel family's 1,921‑acre Mead Ranch for about $24.3 million, preserving a key wildlife corridor south of San Jose.

California State Parks bought the 153‑acre NoraBella tract for $2.415M, expanding Big Basin to protect watersheds and anchor a Saddle Mountain welcome area.

A Bolinas citizens group filed an alternative petition to protect Duxbury Reef that emphasizes education, signage and adaptive management instead of a full fishing ban. State staff will review competing filings ahead of regional hearings this spring.

Santa Rosa approved a master plan to remake MLK Jr. Park, but about $4 million remains unfunded and a fight over synthetic turf persists.

Yosemite is not requiring reservations for the Horsetail Fall “firefall” during the Feb. 10–26, 2026 window. Park staff are deploying traffic controls and urging winter-ready gear and patience.

Gray whales have been seen in San Francisco Bay weeks earlier than usual; researchers are tracking the visitors and training mariners to reduce ship strikes.

A newly opened 547‑acre Sonoma Coast preserve is overflowing into the Bodega Harbour neighborhood, prompting town halls and possible 'No Parking' rules. Neighbors want quick fixes.

San Pablo Reservoir reopens limited launches after a yearlong golden mussel closure. Inspections and 30‑day quarantines will determine which boats can launch.

A mountain lion wandered into Pacific Heights; animal-control teams worked overnight to capture and re-release the cat, and no injuries were reported.

A draft parks strategy would add 87 acres but carries a roughly $1.2 billion price tag, forcing Mountain View leaders to choose between major land buys and neighborhood fixes.