State Parks and National Parks

Angel Island State Park

Angel Island State Park occupies the largest island in San Francisco Bay and offers visitors a chance to hike or bike through woodlands and meadows, sunbathe and picnic at protected coves and enjoy wonderful views of Marin County, San Francisco and the Golden Gate.

This historic island has been home to a Civil War fort, a major military embarkation facility, a quarantine station, an immigration station and a missile base.

The island can only be reached by ferry or private boat. The paved road that encircles the 740-acre island is a favorite of bikers and hikers.

Numerous other trails crisscross the island and climb to the 788-foot summit of Mount Caroline Livermore, which offers a spectacular view of the bay.

Camping is available at walk-in campsites, but be sure to make a reservation. Dogs, bikes, scooters, and skateboards are prohibited on Angel Island.

Visitors arrive by ferry from Tiburon (415-435-2131) and San Francisco (415-773-1188). Visitors arriving on private boats are charged a day-use fee; that fee is included in the ferry ticket cost.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of California Department of Parks and Recreation http://www.cal-parks.ca.gov.