Angel Island State Park

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure with a twist, then consider Angel Island. It’s strategic location has given it a history with the United States military up until the mid 1950′s when it was declared a state park. This article will cover the different activities available, some of them quite unique, including hours, access, and transportation. If you’d like a quick overview of what Angel Island has to offer, then read on to learn more.

<h2> Overview </h2>

Centered in the middle of beautiful San Francisco Bay is the historic Angel Island State Park. Some of the main attractions include camping, hiking, biking, and even segway tours. There is also a small beach and boating available. Travel to the island is only available by ferry. It is usually advisable to make reservations ahead of time.

<h2> Camping </h2>

There are four camping areas within Angel Island. Amenities include running water and pit toilets. There is traditionally less wind at the sites on East Bay. However, the Ridge Sites offer the added advantage of a view of the Golden Gate Bridge and the city of San Francisco. Another area, called the Sunrise Sites, is known for the beautiful picturesque mornings. These sites can be reserved for groups of up to 24 people at a time. There is a smaller beach area on the west site which can accommodate up to 20 people. This beach area is known as the Kayak Camp and includes the ability to go boating.

It is important to note that campers should prepare for a few inconveniences. First, equipment and other belongings must sometimes be carried up to two miles to the camp site. Of special importance is one of the park’s rules on fires. No wood fires are allowed on the island. Therefore, campers should plan ahead and bring camping stoves or charcoal.

<h2> Hiking and Biking </h2>

For hikers, there are over 13 miles of trails to explore on Angel Island. Those who wish to explore the island on a bike can enjoy over nine miles of paved trails too. However, hiking trails and Mount Livermore are not allowed to be traveled via bicycle. It’s not necessary to bring your own bike because rentals are available from the Cove Cafe. For more information, see the website or call the phone number for activity information.

<h2> Special Activities </h2>

Segways, two-wheel motorized personal transport vehicles, are used for special tours on Angel Island. The segway tours are typically held twice a day. All tours begin with a lesson on how to ride and use a segway. So, if you’re into outdoor activities and want to explore them on a leading-edge electric vehicle, then this tour is for you. The tour includes views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and Downtown. All tours are guided by trained professionals for your safety.

For those who want a simpler tour, the island also offers tours via tram. These are open-air buses with a side view. One hour tours guide you around the island while including and audio description of many of the sites. It includes many features of the islands history. For more information, visit the website.

<h2> Hours of Operation </h2>

Travel to the island is arranged via ferry boat. There are a handful of companies offering ferry service to the island which includes the state park entrance fee. Because the companies may offer different rates and times of service depending on the season, you should visit the web page <a href=”http://www.angelisland.com/getting_to_the_island/index.php” target=”_blank”>here</a> to get the most up to date information.

<h2> For More Information </h2>

Angel Island State Park Official Website
http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=468 (official state website)
http://www.angelisland.com (Cove Cave, Rentals, and other commercial information)

Address

P.O. Box 318
Tiburon, CA 94920

Phone Numbers
415-435-1915 (Main Office)
800-444-7275 (Camping Reservations)
415-897-0715 (Activity Information and Reservations)
415-328-4402 (Segway Tours)