Kayak Group Camp

For the adventurous California group looking for a truly unique and intimate experience on the San Francisco Bay, the Kayak Group Camp on Angel Island State Park is an unmatched destination. Unlike the other campsites on the island that primarily cater to hikers taking the ferry, this unique group site is specifically positioned to be accessible from the water, making it a favorite among kayakers and those arriving by private small boat. It’s the only campground on Angel Island with direct access to a small beach, enhancing its appeal for paddlers and water enthusiasts.

The Kayak Group Camp is situated on the west side of Angel Island, near the historic Camp Reynolds area. This location offers a different perspective than the other campgrounds, providing relative seclusion and a tranquil setting that is protected from the primary ferry landing activity at Ayala Cove. As an environmental campground within a California State Park, the focus here is on preserving the natural beauty and rich history of the island while providing essential amenities for a memorable, rustic stay.

The site is designated as a group campground with a maximum capacity of 20 campers, making it perfectly suited for large family outings, paddling clubs, scout troops, or corporate team retreats looking for a genuine Bay Area escape. The experience here emphasizes self-sufficiency; you must carry all of your equipment and supplies to the site—whether that's via a strenuous hike from the ferry landing or by paddling directly to the small beach below the camp. The reward is a special piece of the Bay Area that feels miles away from the urban sprawl, even though San Francisco’s skyline is often visible in the distance.

The surrounding island is a treasure trove of historical military and immigration sites, as well as miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. Campers at the Kayak Group Camp are in a prime location to explore the historic West Garrison and Camp Reynolds, making this much more than just a place to pitch a tent—it’s an opportunity for a deep, historical, and nautical adventure right in the heart of California.

The Kayak Group Camp is located on the west side of Angel Island State Park, geographically situated in the San Francisco Bay. Its address is identified by the coordinates VH75+6R, Tiburon, CA 94920, USA, putting it in the general vicinity of the historic West Garrison.

• Water Access: The camp is uniquely the only campsite on the island with direct beach access. This allows groups arriving by kayak or private boat to land and offload equipment, though campers must secure their boats from high tides.
• Ferry Access: Campers not arriving by private vessel must take the public ferry from Tiburon or San Francisco to the Ayala Cove landing. From there, it is a significant hike-in of up to two miles to reach the campsite, involving a paved road with some uphill sections.
• Accessibility: Due to the hike-in requirement and the short, steep trail from the beach to the camp, this site is generally not considered easily accessible for those with mobility restrictions. The park does offer a separate ADA-accessible site (Site #10) near the perimeter road.
• Car-Free Island: Angel Island is entirely car-free for the public, which contributes to the site's peaceful and secluded atmosphere. Bicycles are a great way to explore the island once gear is at the site.

As a group-oriented environmental campsite, the services are functional, basic, and designed to support a self-sufficient outdoor stay for a large party.

• Group Capacity: The site accommodates up to 20 people, making it ideal for larger groups needing to camp together.
• Water: Potable running water is available for cooking and drinking, located at or near the campsite.
• Restrooms: The camp is near a vault toilet (pit toilet), and guests can also access flush toilets near the main day-use areas (a longer walk).
• Campsite Furnishings: The site includes a group picnic area, often with multiple picnic tables. A food storage locker (animal-proof box) is provided and mandatory for securing food from wildlife, particularly raccoons.
• Group Cooking Area: The site includes a barbecue or grill for cooking. Campers must bring their own charcoal or camp stoves as wood fires are strictly prohibited on Angel Island due to fire risk.
• Reservation: Reservations are mandatory and highly competitive. They must be secured through the California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia).

The features of the Kayak Group Camp are focused on its unique location and its function as a base for island and water-based activities.

• Designated for Paddlers: It is the only campsite on Angel Island with direct beach access, making it the premier choice for sea kayakers, canoers, or small private boat groups.
• Group Focus: The high capacity (up to 20 people) and separate location make it excellent for a large, private group gathering in a spectacular setting.
• Seclusion: Located on the quieter west side of the island, the camp offers a feeling of seclusion and tranquility compared to the areas closer to the main ferry landing.
• Historical Proximity: Campers are perfectly positioned to hike and explore the historic West Garrison and Camp Reynolds area, rich with Civil War-era buildings and military history.
• Views: The west side offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco, often cited as highlights, though the view can be partial depending on the exact camp spot.
• Island Exploration: Groups have access to the 13 miles of hiking trails and the 5-mile paved perimeter road for exploring the island's many historical and natural sites.

The Kayak Group Camp is managed by Angel Island State Park. For reservation inquiries and general park information, use the official State Park channels:

Address: Angel Island State Park, P.O. Box 318, Tiburon, CA 94920, USA
Park Office Phone: (415) 435-5390 (Angel Island Ranger Station)
Reservation System: (800) 444-7275 or online at ReserveCalifornia.com

The Kayak Group Camp is arguably the most unique and rewarding group camping destination in the Bay Area for a particular type of California adventurer.

• Ultimate Paddling Destination: For sea kayakers and canoers, this is the only logical choice on Angel Island, offering the convenience of a beach landing directly below the camp.
• Guaranteed Group Space: Securing a reservation for a large group (up to 20) in a spectacular Bay Area location is notoriously difficult; this site provides a dedicated, secluded, and highly desirable option.
• Historical Immersion: The proximity to the historic West Garrison and the ability to explore the entire island's history in the quiet of the evening makes this an exceptionally enriching camping trip.
• Bay Area Escape: Once the last ferry leaves, the island becomes a private paradise, offering an unparalleled sense of solitude and peace that is rare so close to major California cities.

Choosing the Kayak Group Camp means embracing a blend of physical challenge (whether hiking or paddling in) and historical reward, culminating in a truly distinctive, private, and memorable California camping experience.

Kayak Group Camp

VH75+6R, Tiburon, CA 94920, USA