Alcatraz Island NPS Spend the night in Cell Block D on Alcatraz. Apply through a lottery every November to be chosen. The cost is $2000 for a group up to 35 people and also requires a 1-2 hour service project. Groups are given a tour and a BBQ. Prices change so make sure you understand current pricing. Application

Andrew Molera SP There are 24 identified trail sites. Camping is allowed only at these sites with a maximum of four people per site. Registration will continue to be on a first-come, first-served basis. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=582

Angel Island State Park (link to page) Camped at the three Ridge campsites (8 campers each) for our Golden Gate Bridge to Tiburon cycling trip. The Ridge sites gave us spectacular views of SF.

Anthony Chabot Regional Park EBRP Camped at the site for the Briones Orienteering outing There are several youth group campsites. See Group Campsite page for more information. Telephone (510) 562-2267 for camping information or reservations https://www.ebparks.org/parks/anthony_chabot/

Arroyo Seco Monterey Two small lakes provide tranquil fishing holes and overnight camping available. https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/lpnf/recarea/?recid=10906

Big Basin SP Camped at Sunset Campsite on the Big Basin to Waddell Beach backpacking trip. Big Basin in the Santa Cruz mountains was the first California State Park. Home to the largest continuous stand of ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco, the park consists of over 18,000 acres of old growth and recovering redwood forest, with mixed conifer, oaks, chaparral, and riparian habitats. Elevations in the park vary from sea level to over 2,000 feet. See Group Campsite page for more information.

Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve There are two camping areas. Reservations are required for both--call (510) 562-2267. Neither camping area has water and water must be transported in. See Group Campsite page for more information. The site is a great historical location and see the section on Caving and Mines for more information. Black Diamond EBRP

Black Mountain Backpacking Camp (link to page) backpacking camp 2+ miles from parking lot. Black Mountain is seen in the south peninsula and was the inspiration for Mountain View. The trailhead is accessed from Page Mill Road near the summit. The troop has the Venture patrol hike in from Skyline while the rest of the troop hikes in from the parking lot on Page Mill Road. The troop then hikes down the trail to Los Altos for pick up. There is water at the campsite, but is non-potable and needs to be treated. The campsite is the only campsite located in the thousands of acres preserved by the Mid-Peninsula Open Space District Map:Black Mountain Brochure

Bothe-Napa Valley SP Located in the heart of the beautiful Napa Valley wine country, the Park offers camping, swimming, and hiking trails that go through stands of coastal redwoods as well as forests of Douglas-fir, tanoak, and madrone. Bothe-Napa SP

Briones Regional Park EBRP Near the Bear Creek entrance are reservable campgrounds for youth groups (telephone 636-1684 for information), and an archery range. See Group Campsite page for more information. (Seasonal parking fee. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/briones/

Butano SP The park features miles of hiking trails, 21 drive-in campsites and 18 walk-in campsites. Restrooms with running water are provided. Drinking water is available at the park in both the campground and in the day use areas. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=536

Castle Crags SP The park offers swimming and fishing in the Sacramento River, hiking in the back country, and a view of Mount Shasta. There are 76 developed campsites and six environmental campsites. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=454

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Castle Rock SP (link to page) Steep canyons are sprinkled with unusual rock formations that are popular with rock climbers. The forest here is crisscrossed by 32 miles of hiking trails. Primitive campsites for backpackers are the only overnight facilities. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=538

China Camp SP Camped as part of Mt. Tamalpais mountain biking. Location has historic Chinese fishing village and has hiking and biking trails as well as access to bay.http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=466

Clear Creek Management Area The Clear Creek Management Area (CCMA) is managed by the Bureau of Land Management. On any given day you may see rockhounds, OHV enthusiasts, miners, hikers, hunters, and others sharing the same area. There is one primitive campground and six staging areas, each with pit toilets and dumpsters. How to get there: From the San Jose area, travel south on Highway 101 to Gilroy. Just past Gilroy, take the Highway 25 exit towards Hollister. Continue through town (Hwy. 25 runs through the town of Hollister) and head south for about 35 miles. You will pass by the Pinnacles National Monument. Turn left onto the Coalinga-Los Gatos Creek County road. Continue approximately 14 miles. At the BLM sign indicating the entrance to the Clear Creek Management Area, turn left. https://www.blm.gov/programs/recreation/permits-and-passes/lotteries-and-permit-systems/california/clear-creek-management-area

Clear Lake SP Clear Lake State Park is on the shores of California’s second largest freshwater lake. The area is popular for all kinds of water recreation, including swimming, fishing, boating and water-skiing. Anglers can catch large mouth bass, crappie, bluegill and channel catfish.http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=473

Coyote Hills Regional Park EBRP The Dairy Glen area is available for group overnight camping through the East Bay Regional Park District reservations office. Call (510) 636-1684 for reservation and must be made at least 14 days in advance. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/coyote_hills/

Del Valle Regional Park EBRP (link to page) There are also several youth group campgrounds, available by reservation only. See Group Campsite page for more information. Telephone (510) 636-1684. Lake Del Valle is known for excellent fishing. The lake is stocked regularly with trout and catfish. There are also large- and smallmouth bass, striped bass, and panfish. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/del_valle/

Ed Levin SCCP (link to page) This 1,544 acre park combines the traditional features of an urban park such as picnicking, fishing and play areas, with the complex trail system of many regional wilderness parks. Youth camping area is available. http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/Ed-Levin.aspx

Forest of Nisene Marks SP With over 30 miles of trails, hiking, jogging and biking are some of the activities to be enjoyed here. Picnic tables and barbecue pits are available. A trail camp is located six miles from the nearest parking lot. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=666

Fremont Peak SP Located near Hollister, the park also features an observatory with a 30-inch telescope, open to the public on selected evenings. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=564

Garin Regional Park EBRP Jordan Pond has naturally reproducing populations of largemouth bass, bluegill and sunfish. The Park District also plants channel catfish in the pond once or twice a year. Anglers aged 16 or older must have a state fishing license. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/garin/

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Half Moon Bay SP Francis Beach, at the end of Kelly Avenue in the City of Half Moon Bay. Venice Beach, at the end of Venice Boulevard off Highway 1.Dunes Beach at the end of Young Avenue off Highway 1.Francis Beach has a campground with 55 individual sites, some suitable for tent camping. One youth group campsite is available. See Group Campsite page for more information. NO beach fires are allowed. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=531

Henry Cowell Redwoods SP Bicycles are allowed only on Pipeline Road, Rincon Fire Road, Ridge Fire Road, and Powder Mill Fire Road. Bicyclists under 18 must wear a helmet. Fishing is permitted in the San Lorenzo River during the Steelhead and Salmon season, approximately November through February. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=546

Henry W. Coe SP Backpacking: you could easily plan a week-long trip, hiking 10 miles a day and camping at a different site every night. The park has space for over 60 backpacking parties, with a maximum of eight people per party. Coe Park has great fishing, with largemouth bass, green sunfish, crappie, and bluegill in its lakes and ponds and elusive rainbow trout in the waters of its creeks. The park has 100 miles of roads and trails that are open to mountain bikes. http://www.coepark.org/

Huddart Park SMCP (link to page) The park is only 3.5 miles west of Highway 84. With barbecue pits, a playground, grassy meadows, and hiking and riding trails. Three youth campgrounds, Toyon areas #1, #2, and #3, are available by reservation only April-October (closed Nov-March). Maximum occupancy of 50 people per site. See Group Campsite page for more information. Restroom facilities are available with running water. http://parks.smcgov.org/huddart-park

Joseph D. Grant SCCP Group youth camping is available by reservation. See Group Campsite page for more information. A large lake and several smaller ponds for fishing. Off of Mt. Hamilton Rd, access to the summer Lick Observatory program. http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/JosephDGrant.aspx

Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP The park stretches from the Big Sur coastline into nearby 3,000-foot ridges. It features redwood, tan oak, madrone, chaparral, and an 80-foot waterfall that drops from granite cliffs into the ocean from the Overlook Trail. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=578

Laguna Seca Recreation Area On the grounds of the Laguna Seca speedway are campsites and there's even a rifle and pistol range available. http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/parks/lagunaseca.html

Lake Chabot EBRP Lake Chabot is stocked with trout and catfish. There are also bass, crappie, and other fish. Services include rental of canoes and boats (electric, paddle boats, or oars), hiking, bicycling, and running trails and group sites are available. See Group Campsite page for more information. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/lake_chabot/

Los Padres NP Campsites from north of LA, through Santa Barbara and up to Monterey.

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Manresa Uplands State Beach SP Camped here for 2003 Coastal cleanup. Located between Aptos and Watsonville http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=545
Memorial Park SMCP (link to page) The Homestead Youth Camp has six separately areas that can be reserved, and that hold 50 youth and leaders each. See group sitepage for more information. http://parks.smcgov.org/memorial-park

Mission Peak Backpack Camp Camped at Eagle Spring Backpack Camp. They offer backpack camping opportunities. Reservation is required. All water should be treated or boiled before drinking. To make a reservation, call 1-888-EBPARKS or (888) 327-2757, press option 2. The backpack camp is on the Sunol side of Mission Peak. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/mission/default.htm#activities

Mount Diablo SP Camped at Buckeye campsite which is just off of the summit trail. There are several grop campsites. See Group Campsite page for more information. Boy Scout and Sentinel Ridge are popular places near Rock City for rock climbing. Check with the ranger for regulations and the best approach. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=517 Report page

Mount Madonna SCCP Held our first annual new scouts camp at Indian Rock group campsite See Group Campsite page for more information. Mount Madonna has a pen of Fallon Deer and also Yurts that can be reserved. http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/MtMadonna.aspx

Mount Tamalpais SP Hiking and Bicycle Trails: More than 50 miles of trail are within the park and connect to a larger, 200-mile-long trail system. Bicyclists are challenged by the twisting road to the top of the park's summit. For groups of more than 8, arrangments must be made through the Marin Water Distict. An alternative site with more information is hosted by the Friends of Mt. Tam.

Official Website: http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=471

New Brighton SB The camping area is on a bluff overlooking northern Monterey Bay. http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=542
Ohlone Wilderness Trail EBRP Overnight camping at designated campsites along the Ohlone Wilderness Trail is allowed by reservation only, and separate arrangements should be made by phoning (510) 636-1684.Wilderness permit is also required to hike in this area from East Bay MUD. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/ohlone/

Pfeiffer Big Sur SP 25 miles south of Carmel along Highway 1 Some campsites are along the Big Sur River. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=570

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Pinnacles National Park Pinnacles is now a national park, having been upgraded from National Monumnet status. Family and group camping is available only near the East entrance. You cannot traverse the park by car between the east and west entrances. Pinnacles is one of the Rim of the Bay hikes, features talus caves to hike through and is home to the endangered California Condor. The area is very popular for rock climbing. http://www.nps.gov/pinn/ or Pinnacles http://www.mtycounty.com/pgs-parks/pinn.html

Portola Redwoods SP The campgrounds are cloved November through March. Portola has family, group and backpack camping sites. Located in the Santa Cruz mountains, the park has 4 backpack camps. For more information on Santa Cruz Backpack Camps. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=539

Reinhardt Regional Park EBRP Several youth group day and overnight camping areas are located within the park. They are available by reservation only; telephone 636-1684 for information. See Group Campsite page for more information. Hiking is popular on the park's many trails. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/redwood/

Royal Oaks MCP It's the perfect location for first-time campers to experience overnight camping in the great outdoors. Located in north Monterey County near Watsonville, Royal Oaks offers a campsite and accommodates up to 100 campers. The campground contains a fire ring/ground stove for bonfires and cooking, restrooms, water and 4 picnic table. https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/home/showdocument?id=24007

Sam McDonald Park SMCP Sam McDonald, a unique and interesting 850-acre facility, is located approximately 3 miles west of La Honda on Pescadero Road. See Group Campsite page for more information. http://parks.smcgov.org/sam-mcdonald-park

Samuel P. Taylor SP The park located in Marin County, offers a network of hiking trails and fire roads, making it easy to hike to the top of Mount Barnabe. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=469

San Antonio Lake MCP 12 trails covering 28 miles for hiking and cycling. Spectacular fishing opportunities. With a variety of fish, including Striped Bass, Bass (Large and Small Mouth), Catfish, Crappie, Carp, Red Ear, and Blue Gill, For group camping reservations: 1-805-472-2311 See Group Campsite page for more information. About 45 miles south of Salinas off of US 101 https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-i-z/resource-management-agency-rma-/parks/lake-san-antonio

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San Bruno SMCP San Bruno Mountain Park is a landmark of local and regional significance, standing asa unique open-space island at the northern end of the Santa Cruz Mountain Range.https://parks.smcgov.org/san-bruno-mountain-state-county-park

San Lorenzo Park MCP Located in King City, the camp has group sites including indoor space for groups staying 2 or more nights. http://www.co.monterey.ca.us/parks/sanlorenzo.html

Sanborn Skyline SCCP Tent camping is available by reservation only. The walk-in campground is closed from the third Saturday in October the third Saturday in March. A popular backpack trek is the Skyline to Sea Trail starting from the Saratoga Gap on Skyline (Highway 35), but you can actually start at Sanborn park, adding about 5.2 miles to the overall trek.

.http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/Sanborn.aspxSanborn Camp Map

Seacliff State Beach SP There is a pier is open for fishing. The beach is also a popular swimming spot. There is a long stretch of sand backed by bluffs. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=543

Sugarloaf Ridge SP Sugarloaf Ridge State Park contains the headwaters of Sonoma Creek. The park also houses a 40-inch telescope at the Ferguson Observatory. It can be rented with the group campsite for private parties. See Group Campsite page for more information. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=481

Sunol Regional Wilderness EBRP Several sites are available by advance reservation only. Phone (510) 636-1684 on weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. High Valley Camp is a hike-in camp located a steep, one-mile walk from the Visitor Center. Camp Ohlone is a seven-mile hike from the park entrance. School Camp is adjacent to the Visitor Center and may be reserved through the Sunol Park office at (925) 862-2601. Group areas are available November through May. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/sunol/

Sunset State Beach SP Camped here for 2002 Coastal cleanup. The beach features pine trees, mountainous sand dunes, and ocean side picnic spots just west of the city of Watsonville. http://www.parks.ca.gov/default.asp?page_id=544

Tilden Park EBRP Group camping facilities for organized groups include Gillespie Camp (75). Phone (510) 562-2267. See Group Campsite page for more information. Has 31 miles of biking and hiking trails and there's even a lake for swimming and fishing. https://www.ebparks.org/parks/tilden/

Toro Park MCP Toro Park’s Youth Overnight Area can be reserved by organized youth groups. This secluded facility has 10 tables, a large sheltered barbecue pit, restroom and shower facilities, a full kitchen, and a fishing pond with a pier. Groups have easy access to park trails and spectacular views of the Salinas Valley. Park is located on the Salinas Highway between Salinas and Monterey. . https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/home/showdocument?id=24011

Uvas Canyon Upper Branch SCCP The park has seven miles of hiking trails including a one mile Waterfall Loop that travels along Swanson Creek past many of the park's waterfalls. http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/UvasCanyon.aspx

Veteran’s Park (link to page) (Monterey City Park) This campground is located a mile above Fisherman's wharf and is within easy hiking distance but is at slight elevation. Great location for taking the Monterey Historic hike. The park is adjacent to the 81-acre Huckleberry nature preserve. It's also next to a small military base and you'll get awaken by reveille and lulled to sleep by taps. Two group areas can be reserved for overnight youth groups of up to 100 people. Each has a large double BBQ pit for cooking, tables, and water is available. Restrooms and showers are available, also. Reservations at 831.646.3865 https://monterey.org/Services/Parks-and-Beaches/Camping-and-Hiking

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Scout Camps

Boulder Creek Scout Reservation Pacific Skyline Boulder Creek Scout Reservation is located 1 1/2 miles from the town of Boulder Creek, California The camp boasts of a quiet and serene camping atmosphere, a shower and restroom facility that meets ADA standards, archery and rifle range, family camp with tents and tent platforms, kitchen, swimming pool, picnic tables, a historic hiking trail and nature trails, camping area, and a pristine meadow campground. https://pacsky.org/camping/bcsr/

Camp Chawanakee Sequoia Council In addition standard summer camp merit badges, they also offer pottery, photography, motor boating, space exploration, small boat sailing, motor boating, and horsemanship. https://www.seqbsa.org/camp-chawanakee/

Camp Chesebrough (link to location of the camp) Silicon Valley Monterey Bay Council This is the local campgrounds owned and operated by Silicon Valley Monterey Bay Council. There are 4 large campsites available that can be divided into smaller areas. Fire rings, picnic tables, piped water, and flush toilets are available. Chesebrough is often used for Outdoor Leader Skills Training, camp-o-rees and Webelos and Cub Scout camps. Pets are discouraged. Reservations are required and made through the council office Fees vary depending on the program - year-round use or summer camp program. Call Council Service Center for information at 408-280-5088 http://svmbc.org/svmbc/campproperties/chesebrough-scout-reservation/

Camp Emerald Bay Western Los Angeles County Council. Emerald Bay is very popular and WLACC requires attendance at one of their other summer camps prior to attending Camp Emerald Bay for troops outside of their council. http://www.campemeraldbay.org/emerald-bay/boy-scout-camp

Camp Herms Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Camp Herms is located in the east bay hills above El Cerrito. This camp serves as a year-round camp with Cub Scout Day Camp in the summer. It is also the base for the Fages Historic Trail, commemorating the trek by Captain Pedro Fages searching for a land route around San Francisco Bay in 1772 The MDSC OA hosts a 20-miler on the Fages every June for those needing the hike for the Hiking merit badge. OA Fages II info
https://campherms.mdscbsa.org/

Camp Hi-Sierra SCC Council CAMP HI-SIERRA is is located at an elevation of 5000 ft. within the Stanislaus National Forest. The North Fork of the Tuolumne River flows through and provides a waterfront lake of endless enjoyment. Troop 494 has been attending Hi-Sierra for many years. http://svmbc.org/svmbc/campproperties/camp-hi-sierra/ Map of Hi-Sierra; Map to Hi-Sierra

Camp Isom Greater Yosemite Council. Camp Isom is a 160 acre primitive camp located along Orestimba Creek in the Coast Range, nine miles west of Newman. One prominent feature of Camp Isom is a permanent spring that empties into a series of three ponds in which fish and water lilies abound. The camp is three miles by air and six miles hiking from Henry Coe State Park. In the past Scouts have hiked from Isom over to Coe Park and exited to Morgan Hill. This is a true wilderness experience. This should be treated as a primitive campground and campers must haul out all trash. There is an outhouse located at the camp http://www.yosemitescouting.org/camping/camp-isom/51469Camp

John Messinger, Greater Yosemite Council. The camp is located on 168 acres in mid elevation pine forest (4200 ft.) about 19 miles drive in a northerly direction from the town Strawberry in the Sierras. http://www.yosemitescouting.org/camping/camp-john-mensinger/51466

Camp Lassen Golden Empire Council The camp is located 45 minutes East of Chico in Northern California and about 60 miles from the famous Lassen Volcanic National Park http://www.gec-bsa.org/camping-/camp-lassen/63197

Camp Linblad, CLOSED Mt. Diablo Silverado Council has sold Camp Linblad and is not available for camping.

Camp Marin Sierra, Marin Council The 320 acres of Camp Marin-Sierra are located in the redwoods of the Tahoe National Forest at an elevation between 5,500 and 5,600 feet. Chubb Lake provides the camp with virtually all the aquatic programs Scouting has to offer except motor boating and waterskiing, which are conducted as a Hi-Adventure activity at nearby Lake Spalding. http://www.boyscouts-marin.org/camping-programs-and-facilities/camp-marin-sierra/4056

Camp Meriwether, Cascade Pacific Council. The mighty Pacific Ocean provides the dramatic backdrop for this full service camp with 2 miles of private beach. The camp includes Lake Chamberlain, a fresh-water lake for swimming and boating, a trading post, a .22 rifle range, a shotgun range, an archery range, a black powder range, scoutcraft, handicraft and an ecology study center. For experienced campers, Meriwether offers high adventure hikes and a rock climbing program on a 44' tower.https://www.cpcbsa.org/meriwether

Camp Noyo, Redwood Empire Council Camp Noyo is a Redwood Empire Council operated camp located between Fort Bragg and Willits. Its exact location is at mile 16 of the Skunk Train, sandwiched in the Noyo River valley. http://www.redwoodbsa.org/Camping/CampNoyo/
Camp Oljato SC Pacific Skyline Council Camp Oljato is located on Huntington Lake in Lakeshore, CA (Fresno County).Our camp's property ranges in elevation from 7,000 to just under 8,000 feet. The camp is about 240 miles from the Pacific Skyline Council, San Mateo/Santa Clara area, about 5-6 hours driving time.

Oljato is accessible only by pontoon boat which run on a regular schedule during our Scout camping season. Camp Oijato has complete aquatics, nature, handicrafts, and shooting sports areas which are complemented by our highly rated dining hall and food service team. http://www.pacsky.org/Camps/Oljato

Camp Pico Blanco Silicon Valley Monterey Bay Area Council Camp Pico Blanco is located in the Big Sur Coast area of Central California, just 12 miles south of Carmel off Highway 1 and inland 13 miles on Palo Colorado Road. The camp is situated on over 800 acres along the North Fork of the Little Sur River and is surrounded by the Los Padres National Forest and bordered by the Ventana Wilderness area. Camp is currently CLOSED due to accessibility issues.

Camp Pollock Camp Pollock, previously owned by the Golden Empire Council is now operated by the Sacramento Valley Conservancy. Located in the heart of Sacramento along the American River, it's a great base of operation for hiking the Sacramento Historic Trail. Reservations can be made through the SVC https://sacramentovalleyconservancy.org/camp-pollock/

Camp Pahatsi Golden Empire Council Camp CLOSED

Pahatsi was destroyoed by a fire and is slowly making it's way back. You can volunteer to help with teh efforst at the following website: http://www.gec-bsa.org/camping/camppahatsi

Camp Royaneh San Francisco Bay Area Council Camp Royaneh, located in the beautiful coastal Redwoods area near Cazadero in Sonoma County. Camp has an olympic size pool, the Diamond Corral horseback, a C.O.P.E course and much more. http://camproyaneh.org/

Camp Whitsett Western Los Angeles County Council. Located in Sequoia National Forest, Camp Whitsett offers an outstanding venue for your troop long-term camp. Camp Whitsett is situated at an elevation of 4300' with its own lake. The camp is located approximately 4 hours north of the San Fernando Valley. It is north east of Bakersfield and 35 miles north of Lake Isabella. Priority for Emerald Bay is given to troops that go first to another WLACC summer camp like Whitsett http://www.whitsett.org/

Camp Wolfeboro Scout Camp. Mt. Diablo Silverado Council Camp Wolfeboro is located on the north fork of the Stanislaus River at an elevation of 5500 feet. The Camp, located at the center of an 80-acre glacier sand flat, with tall lodgepole pines, towering talus slopes, high granite walls, together making up the setting for the majestic surroundings https://campwolfeboro.mdscbsa.org/

Camp Tamarancho, Marin Council Located in the heart of Marin County, this year round camp is located just two miles from Sir Francis Drake Blvd. Camp Tamarancho has over 480 acres of meadows, redwood forested campsites and three, 4 person cabins. Program areas include a rifle range, archery range, lake with swimming and boating area, game field, picnic area, and world-class bike trails. . http://www.boyscouts-marin.org/camping-programs-and-facilities/camp-tamarancho/4057

Cutter Scout Reserve Pacific Skyline Council Cutter Scout Reservation is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains, north of Big Basin State Park in San Mateo County. Camp, boat, fish, hike, have fun! You can do it all right here at Cutter Scout Reservation. http://www.pacsky.org/Camps/Cutter

Rancho Los MososSF Bay Area Council Rancho Los Mochos, located in the hills above Livermore, CA is home to many training courses, Cub Scout camping activities and Spring Camporees. Rancho Los Mochos has many large camp areas, making it ideal for troop, as well as multi-troop functions. Campgrounds feature fire rings for ground fires (restricted use during high fire danger periods), picnic tables and piped water. http://www.rancholosmochos.org/

Wente Scout ReserveWe made our first trip to Wente in August '04 and loved it. SF Bay Area Council's Wente Scout Reserve has tall Douglas Firs and golden meadows on 2,200 acres of hills and forests spell adventure for the Troop that likes to rough it and test its skills. An 80 acre lake offers a natural setting for swimming, sailing, boating and canoeing. Oh, and don't forget horseback riding, black powder and climbing on real rocks. The lake has some of the best fishing in the state and it's free from California fishing regulations so bring your pole! Here's a link to a page describing Wente in more depth: http://wentescoutreservation.org/

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Camping Websites

Federal:

Bureau of Land Management https://www.blm.gov/office/central-coast-field-office

The Bureau of Land Management has many primitive sites across the state. Reservations are made through local field offices. The Central Coast field office has moved from Hollister to Marina. Recreation areas in this region include:

California Federal Reservations System: http://www.reserveamerica.com/camping/California_federal_parks_campgrounds/r/campgroundDirectoryList.do?contractCode=NRSO&pstate=CA

US National Parks http://www.nps.gov/parks.html

Reserve America for other Federal agencies including Army Corp of Engineers and National Forest Service http://www.reserveamerica.com/

California State Parks Includes state parks, beaches, historic parks, and reserves.http://www.parks.ca.gov/ParkIndex/

Regional:

Santa Clara County Parks The website for Santa Clara County parks. Online reservations can now be made through the site. There are maps for all campgrounds located on the site as well. http://www.sccgov.org/sites/parks/parkfinder/Pages/parkfinder.aspx

San Mateo County The website for San Mateo County parks. San Mateo has several group parks including equestrian sites. http://parks.smcgov.org/

East Bay Parks East Bay Parks incorporate parks from several east bay counties. Lots of maps and the parks range from camping to fishing and boating. https://www.ebparks.org/activities/camping/default.htm

Bay Area Back Country camping http://www.hknot.com/bab/bab.html

Bay area family camps: http://www.campsbayarea.com/overnight-and-sleepaway-camps.html

Monterey County Parks Includes city, county & state parks located within Monterey https://www.co.monterey.ca.us/government/departments-i-z/resource-management-agency-rma-/parks/resources/youth-camping

Sonoma County Parks Link: http://www.sonoma-county.org/parks/

Private:

PG&E Recreational sites including campsites http://www.pge.com/en/about/environment/pge/recreation/index.page

KOA Campgrounds KOA features tent and cabins at various locations throughout the state. http://koa.com/states-provinces/california/

Hostel Websites

Fort Mason HostelSan Francisco, near Fisherman's Wharf Fort Mason, Building 240, San Francisco, CA 94123; Phone: (415) 771-7277 Hostelling International-San Francisco-Fisherman's Wharf is located at Fort Mason in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, an urban national park on the Bay. Fort Mason is also home to museums, galleries, and theaters. The nearby Bikecentennial route makes this hostel a perfect stop for cyclists. Dorm beds: 163; Private rooms: 6

Fullerton Hostel 1700 North Harbor Blvd, Fullerton, CA 92835; Phone: (714) 738-3721 This cozy hostel with a great self service kitchen and fire place is located just six miles north of Disneyland, Disney's California Adventure, the Anaheim Convention Center and seven miles from Knott's Berry Farm. The hostel is situated in Brea Dam Park with a picnic area and golf driving range. The hostel offers three small dorms and it is a quiet, restful place to relax while in the Los Angeles area. Dorm beds: 20; Private rooms:0

US Hostels Hollywood Los Angeles http://www.hostels.com/hostels/los-angeles/usa-hostels-hollywood/824

Klamath Redwood Klamath National Park Currently Closed.

Los Altos Hills Hidden Villa 26870 Moody Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022. Phone: (650) 949-8648. There are more than seven miles of trails for guests to roam in the hills behind the hostel. San Francisco, San Jose, Stanford University, and the towns of "Silicon Valley" are all close by. Hostel Available only September through May. http://www.hiddenvilla.org/rentals/hostel

Montara Near Half Moon Bay 16th Street at California Hwy 1, Montara, CA 94037; P.O. Box 737, Montara, CA 94037 Phone: (650) 728-7177 On the rugged California coast, 25 miles south of San Francisco, historic 1875 lighthouse and turn-of-the-century buildings have been preserved and restored by HI-AYH and the California Department of Parks and Recreation, in cooperation with the Coast Guard. Explore the coastline; watch annual gray whale migration (Nov-April). Visit the nearby James Fitzgerald Marine Reserve, a four-mile stretch of tide pools full of starfish, crabs, mussels, abalone, and sea anemones. Enjoy beaches, swim, surf, kayak, jog, horseback ride, windsurf and bicycle along the shore.

Monterey HostelCannery Row 778 Hawthorne St., Monterey, CA 93940; Phone: (831) 649-0375 The hostel is located 4 blocks from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck's Cannery Row, minutes from Fisherman's Wharf and the world famous 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy whale watching, scuba diving and kayaking on scenic Monterey Bay. Bike, rollerblade or stroll Monterey Bay's coastline recreation path

Marin Headlands Hostel Fort Barry, Building 941, Sausalito, CA 94965; Phone: (415) 331-2777 HI-Marin Headlands sits on a hillside in the serene Marin Headlands just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The hostel's turn-of-the-century buildings are surrounded by beaches, forests, and rolling hills. Rodeo Lagoon and Beach provide an abundance of wildlife and native plant life to study. Hike numerous scenic trails nearby (Mount Tamalpais State Park, Muir Woods National Monument, and just out the door in the Marin Headlands). Dorm beds: 80; Private rooms: 7; Dorm rate: $18-20; Private room rate: $45 (up to 2 adults & 2 kids) call for details and reservations.

Pigeon Point LighthouseSan Mateo Coast 210 Pigeon Point Road, Pescadero, CA 94060; Phone: (650) 879-0633 Perched atop a cliff on the central California coast 50 miles south of San Francisco, the 115-foot Pigeon Point Lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in America, has been guiding mariners since 1872. View the annual gray whale migration (Nov-April). Explore tide pools, 100 yards north. Hike through the amazing 1,000-year-old redwoods nearby. Explore close by Pescadero Marsh, the feeding and nesting place for more than 150 species of birds, and Ano Nuevo State Reserve, the breeding site of northern elephant seals (Dec-March).

Planet Venice Hostel VBH is a budget inn for travelers in Los Angeles, located right at the beach. Guests enjoy private bathrooms, Free breakfast in well-appointed kitchen and recreation areas, and a free internet computer in every room and free wi-fi. The hostel is open 24 hours.

Point Reyes Hostel Pt Reyes State Park Off Limantour Rd., Point Reyes National Seashore, CA
Mail: P.O. Box 247, Point Reyes, CA 94956; Phone: (415) 663-8811 HI-Point Reyes is two miles from the ocean in a secluded valley on Point Reyes National Seashore

Sacramento Hostel Downtown 925 H Street, Sacramento, CA 95814; Phone: (916) 443-1691

Step back into another century as you relax in the quiet comfortable elegance of this 1885 Victorian mansion in the heart of California's state capital. HI-Sacramento is an easy walk to Amtrak, Greyhound, or public transportation and many attractions: Old Sacramento Historic District on the Sacramento River, the California State Railroad Museum, Sutter's Fort and Indian Museum, the Governor's Mansion, the State Capitol and Capitol Park.

San Diego Downtown 521 Market, San Diego, CA 92101; Phone: (619) 525-1531 This downtown hostel is located on the corner of 5th and Market in the soul of the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter (16 blocks of cafes and restaurants, clubs, shops, galleries and landmarks)

San Diego Point Loma Point Loma 3790 Udall Street, San Diego, CA 92107-2414; Phone: (619) 223-4778 Explore San Diego during the day; then enjoy the evening in the courtyard at the hostel near Ocean Beach. Dorm beds: 58; Private rooms:5; Dorm rate: $16-20; Private room rate: $38-44

San Francisco City Center 685 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA 94109; Phone: (415) 474-5721The hostel is just a short walk from the beautifully restored City Hall, weekly open-air farmers markets that offer a delectable array of native fruits and vegetables, the famed cable cars. Union Square, Japantown and Chinatown are a fifteen minute walk, and Fisherman's Wharf, the Mission District, and Ocean Beach are all easily accessible with convenient public transportation.

San Francisco Downtown Hostel Downtown 312 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; Phone: (415) 788-5604 A block from the excitement of Union Square, in the theater district, this hostel (formerly the Hotel Virginia) provides private and small dorm rooms. Right outside the front door is a variety of restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Union Square is a great place to people-watch or enjoy a picnic under the palm trees. Just two blocks away at Powell and Market Streets are the world-famous cable cars, which will give you a breathtaking ride to Fisherman's Wharf and the Bay.

San Luis Obispo Hostel Central Coast 1617 Santa Rosa Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401; Phone: (805) 544-4678 HI-San Luis Obispo, Hostel Obispo is the perfect stopover for travelers along the coast of California. Halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, it is close to many spectacular sights, including Motana de Oro State Park, 4 beaches, and amazing volcanic peaks.

San Pedro Hostel Los Angeles 3601 South Gaffey Street, #613, San Pedro, CA 90731-6969; Phone: (310) 831-8109 A million-dollar view is waiting for you at this seaside hostel in the Los Angeles South Bay community of San Pedro. Located in scenic Angel's Gate Park, Hostelling International - Los Angeles South Bay has panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island and features spectacular sunsets.

Santa Cruz Hostel 321 Main St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060; Mail: P.O. Box 1241, Santa Cruz, CA 95061; Phone: (831) 423-8304. HI-Santa Cruz is located in the restored 1870's Carmelita Cottages on Beach Hill. It is only two blocks from the beach, boardwalk, amusement park, and wharf and five blocks from downtown.

Santa Monica Hostel Los Angeles 1436 2nd Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401; Phone: (310) 393-9913. Santa Monica is an excellent base for seeing Los Angeles. With good public transportation, the hostel is also a convenient bus ride from the airport. The hostel has regularly scheduled trips to Disneyland, Universal Studios, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and Mexico. At HI - Los Angeles/Santa Monica you are only 2 blocks from the beach.

Tecopa Hostel Death Valley 2000 Old Spanish Trail Hwy., Tecopa, CA 92389; P.O. Box 306, Tecopa, CA 92389; Phone: (760) 852-4580 The center of Death Valley National Park is 60 miles from the hostel, and mountains and valleys are everywhere waiting to be explored. The free Tecopa Hot Springs offer steaming, fragrant mineral baths. The hostel's view tower is often used for relaxing star-gazing, and sleeping under the stars.

Yosemite Bug House Midpines 6979 A Highway 140, Midpines, CA 95345; P.O. Box 81, Midpines, CA 95345. The Yosemite Bug Hostel, is just 20 miles from spectacular Yosemite National Park on several forested acres. The area has great opportunities for mountain biking, skiing, rafting, and hiking. The hostel is just three miles from the Merced River Scenic Area and hiking trails access.

Norcal Hostels

Hostelling International USA

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Modified June 9, 2020