Ridge Campground
01 reviewnull
Ridge Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reservations through ReserveCalifornia are required for campsites at Ridge Campground. The flat fee for reserving a campsite is $30 per night.
About this campground
Perched high above the shimmering waters of San Francisco Bay, Ridge Campground offers an extraordinary island escape accessible only by ferry or private boat. This environmental campground invites adventurers to discover breathtaking panoramic vistas, winding trails that tell centuries of stories, and historical landmarks that whisper of California's complex past. Here, where city skylines meet wilderness, campers find themselves in a rare sanctuary just miles from urban life.
Camping options at Angel Island State Park include environmental campsites like Ridge Campground, with primitive camping setups.
Historical SignificanceEvery trail on Angel Island traces through layers of American history. From the ancient Miwok people who first called these shores home to Spanish explorers mapping the California coast, the island has witnessed centuries of change. The weathered buildings of Civil War-era Camp Reynolds stand as silent sentinels, while the restored immigration station and WWII internment facilities serve as powerful reminders of both dreams and struggles. Walking these paths, visitors literally follow in the footsteps of soldiers, immigrants, and prisoners who each left their mark on this remarkable island.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with the Bay Area's signature mild climate, Ridge Campground enjoys refreshingly cool conditions throughout the year. Ocean breezes keep summer temperatures comfortable, rarely climbing above 75°F, while winter brings dramatic skies and occasional rainfall that transforms the island into a lush green paradise. The persistent coastal winds create an ever-changing atmosphere, from crystal-clear days perfect for photography to mysterious fog-shrouded mornings that feel like stepping into another world.
ElevationRidge Campground's dramatic setting at elevations reaching 788 feet rewards hikers with some of the most spectacular 360-degree views in California. From your tent site among the trees, trails lead upward through changing ecosystems to viewpoints where the entire Bay Area spreads before you like a living map. On clear days, the vista encompasses five bridges, countless peaks, and the endless Pacific horizon—a photographer's dream and a memory-maker's paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground nestles within a tapestry of California ecosystems where native oak woodlands mingle with aromatic eucalyptus groves and stately Monterey pines. Morning mist often reveals deer grazing in nearby meadows, while curious raccoons and playful seals remind visitors of the island's wild heart. Overhead, majestic blue herons glide on thermal currents, brown pelicans dive for fish in the surrounding waters, and red-tailed hawks patrol the ridgelines. The landscape shifts from dense woodland to open grassland, each turn revealing new perspectives of bay and sky.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of San Francisco Bay, Angel Island showcases California's diverse natural beauty in miniature. The island's varied terrain climbs from sea level to the 788-foot summit of Mount Caroline Livermore, encompassing distinct microclimates along the way. Native plant communities of sagebrush and manzanita paint the hillsides in subtle grays and greens, while groves of eucalyptus and Monterey pine add vertical drama to the landscape. This geological gem offers campers an intimate encounter with coastal California ecology, all within sight of one of the world's most iconic urban skylines.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is hilly, and advance notice is recommended for persons with limited mobility. Accessible restroom facilities are generally available in areas like Ayala Cove but specific details about Ridge Campground are not mentioned.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that Site #5 has plenty of space for tents and trees for hammocks.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight contrasting levels of privacy. Site #4 is noted for being on the bluff with no shade, while Site #5 offers good shade and privacy under trees.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Site #4 has the best view but zero shade," and "Site #5 offers plenty of shade and tent spots."
Best Campsites4, 5, 7, 8, 9
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests per site is unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRidge Campground includes five environmental sites located on a bluff. Sites are arranged to provide privacy and scenic views.
Open and Closed SeasonAngel Island is open year-round, but operations may be restricted during winter and holidays. Ridge Campground is likely subjected to these conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on ReserveCalifornia.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is unspecified, but reservations are strongly recommended.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules not explicitly mentioned for Ridge Campground.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational opportunities are available at Angel Island State Park. Ridge Campground offers scenic views and access to hiking trails, while the general park includes historical tours, wildlife viewing, and water activities such as fishing and boating.
Hiking
The park features well-marked hiking trails, including routes circling the island and ascending Mount Caroline Livermore. Ridge Campground provides direct access to scenic trails.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the park. Common species include salmon and striped bass migrating through Raccoon Strait.Biking
Biking is allowed on the main roads circling the island, but not on foot trails or the road to Mount Livermore.Boating
Boat docks and mooring buoys are available at Ayala Cove for day and overnight use. Payment covers park entrance fees.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and various bird species such as herons and pelicans. Seals and sea lions can be seen feeding offshore.Beach activities
Beaches like Quarry Point offer sandy areas for sunbathing and scenic walks. Perle’s Beach is more exposed to wind and rough waters.Cultural and Educational Programs
Historical tours and interpretive exhibits are available at sites like the US Immigration Station and Camp Reynolds.Winter Activities
Limited winter activities are available due to seasonal closures and restricted ferry services.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are implied but not specifically detailed for Ridge Campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Charcoal grills and camp stoves are allowed, but wood fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours details not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsStrong currents make swimming hazardous near the island. Poison oak is native to the region, and outhouse smells were noted near some campsites.
Active alertsA portion of Perimeter road is closed due to a slide as of 12/13/24. California is experiencing atmospheric river events, affecting weather conditions.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 16.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services would likely be available in Tiburon or San Francisco. Specific details about hospitals or police stations are not provided in the source materials.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates not explicitly mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details provided regarding trash and recycling facilities at Ridge Campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is surrounded by coastal features such as Ayala Cove and Quarry Beach. Currents around Angel Island are very strong, making swimming hazardous.
Common complaints"Site #6 has shade, but the view is blocked by the hill and outhouse. Outhouse smell is very bad."
HostHost information not specified for Ridge Campground.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsAccess to Angel Island is by public ferry or private boat. Visitors can take the Golden Gate Ferry from San Francisco or the Angel Island Tiburon Ferry from Tiburon. The Golden Gate Ferry provides weekday service in winter, while Tiburon ferry service in winter is available by charter only. Coordinates for Ridge Campground: 37.865063, -122.434674.
The campground is accessible via ferry service from San Francisco or Tiburon. Service is limited during winter and holidays. Roads on the island are primarily fire roads and trails, not accessible to vehicles.Nearby places
San Francisco (approximately 6 miles via ferry), Tiburon (approximately 1 mile via ferry).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Tiburon or San Francisco, accessible via ferry. Angel Island itself has limited services, including a café and bike rentals during operating hours.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Ridge Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Ridge Campground’s scenic views and diverse site conditions, including shade availability and privacy. Common complaints include bad outhouse odors and lack of amenities such as potable water and fire rings.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise Site #5 for its shade, tent spots, and hammock-friendly trees, as well as the bluff views from Site #4.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Outhouse smell is a frequent complaint, particularly for Site #6. Users also note a lack of shade at Site #4.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Some users recommend choosing Site #5 for its shade and comfort over other sites. Another recommendation is to prepare for the lack of potable water and amenities.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter closures limit accessibility to the campground, and ferry services are reduced. Spring and summer are noted as ideal seasons for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
Derek R. states: 'Site #4 is the highest on the bluff and has the best view, but it has Zero shade. Absolutely none.' Another user mentions Site #5 as 'Plenty of shade, tent spots, and even trees for...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #4, #5, #7, #8, and #9 are considered the best campsites. Site #4 offers views but no shade, while Site #5 is praised for its shade and versatility.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features at Ridge Campground but note challenges due to the hilly terrain surrounding the park.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the park, except for service animals.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025