Adventures in the Presidio
An interactive map guides explorers of all ages through the Presidio, San Francisco’s very own 1,491-acre park.
Project type
Print
Deliverables
Illustration, Visual Storytelling
Agency
Presidio Trust
The problem
How might we educate and engage Presidio visitors beyond the typical amenities that parks offer?
60,000 trees. More than 300 bird species. 13 distinctive plant communities. 300 native plant species—16 of them endangered, including the wildflowers San Francisco lessingia and Presidio clarkia, which are found in only two locations worldwide. 433 historic structures. 21 different neighborhoods. 24 miles of natural and restored trail.
And 3,000 people call it home.
How do we capture even a fraction of the magic that this unique place holds?
The vision
Captivate park visitors with an adventure map that inspires exploration of the Presidio’s natural wonders.
The process
This project began in 2014 while I was working as an environmental educator in the Presidio. The park was my outdoor classroom, where I guided students through its diverse landscapes and ecosystems. As both a scientist and an artist, I aimed to merge design and creativity with environmental education, ensuring scientific accuracy while fostering curiosity and critical thinking.
Recognizing my passion for illustration, Senior Park Experience & Partnerships Specialist Damien Raffa encouraged me to bring a Presidio adventure map to life. As the vision for the map began to unfold, each element was drawn with subtle variations, evoking the organic beauty of nature. To authentically capture the Presidio’s dynamic landscape, I hand-painted the base with watercolor to reflect the park’s topography and meticulously illustrated surface details to mirror the natural intricacies of the environment.
Results and impact
Adventures in the Presidio embraces the remarkable story of an army post-turned-recreational park that serves a diverse community of plants, animals, and people. The map serves as a gateway to understanding the Presidio’s unique history and the extensive restoration efforts that have revitalized its natural spaces.
Originally created as an educational tool for San Francisco students, the map has since reached a far broader audience. To date, over 100,000 copies have been distributed to visitors of all ages and from around the world, guiding them through the park’s habitats, trails, historic structures, and breathtaking views.
On display at the San Francisco Public Library in 2015 (proud relative not included in visitor experience).
A story that transforms with time
The Presidio, like nature itself, is constantly evolving. Over the years, the park has undergone significant changes—restored habitats, new trails, and ongoing conservation efforts. As a result, the map is not a static document but a living project, being redrawn as it adapts alongside the park’s transformation.
By combining artistry with environmental education, Adventures in the Presidio bridges the gap between science and creativity, offering an interactive and visually stunning way for visitors to connect with the park’s past, present, and ever-changing future.