Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

Things To Do Near Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

Activities at the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial are strictly controlled due to the military-operated location; a ranger will take you on a tour of the area. Within 30 miles, however, you'll find a huge array of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, camping, and water sports. Explore the mountains and waterways, or spend your days taking advantage of the Bay Area's shopping and renowned food scene.

Hiking Trails

• Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park Trails

  Located a few miles west of Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, the Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park trails are a lovely spot for an easy hike. The paths are paved or covered with pea gravel, so they're accessible for hiking, strollers, and bikes. As you walk, enjoy the views of the Carquinez Strait and the Benicia-Martinez Bridge.

  Location

  North end of Ferry Street, Martinez, CA

  Length

  2+ Miles

  Intensity

  Easy

• Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline Trails

  If you're looking for more of a challenge, hike around the hills on the trails at the Carquinez Strait Regional Shoreline. The park sits next to the Radke Martinez Regional Shoreline Park, a short drive from Port Chicago. As you climb high up the ridges, you'll see fantastic panoramic views of the water, the port, and the surrounding cities. This is a great spot to watch ships move in and out of the port. Many of the trails are covered in dirt or grass; they travel through rolling green hills and quiet stands of trees, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Many viewpoints feature wooden benches, so you can relax and take in the scenery.

  Location

  11 Carquinez Scenic Dr, Martinez, CA 94553

  Length

  Varies

  Intensity

  Moderate

Sightseeing

• Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve

  Discover California's coal-mining history at the Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve. Five different coal mines operated in the area in the late 1800s; in the 1920s, the land was used for sand mining. Today, you can learn about the mining history at the Sydney Flat Visitor Center and tour an underground sand-mine chamber at the Greathouse Visitor Center. Rangers also offer tours of the Hazel-Atlas Mine.

  Location

  5175 Somersville Rd, Antioch, CA 94509

• Briones Regional Park

  Lose yourself in the California countryside at Briones Regional Park. With its grassy rolling hills, it looks straight out of a movie. Explore the hills, walk through trees, and enjoy the views from high in the hills. The park is popular with trail runners and picnickers; bring a meal and enjoy it on the picnic tables at the Bear Creek Staging Area and the Alhambra Creek Staging Area.

  Location

  2537 Reliez Valley Rd, Martinez, CA 94553

• Don Fernando Pacheco Adobe

  See a piece of California history at the Don Fernando Pacheco Adobe. This historic building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1844. While the adobe itself is not open, you can explore the grounds and see how settlers lived during the state's early days. If you're traveling with little ones, the adjacent Hillcrest Community Park has an excellent playground.

  Location

  3119 Grant St, Concord, CA 94520

Museums

• Galindo Home Museum & Gardens

  Tour a historic Victorian ranch house at the Galindo Home Museum and Gardens. The house, which was built in 1856, has been completely restored to its original grandeur. Inside, you can wander through the rooms and check out the exhibits that tell the story of Concord. The Concord Historical Society operates the museum and offers guided tours on weekends.

  Location

  1721 Amador Ave, Concord, CA 94520

• Cobra Experience

  If you're interested in vintage cars, don't miss the Cobra Experience. Dedicated to the vehicles produced by Shelby American — namely, the Cobra and the Mustang — this museum is a must-see for auto enthusiasts. Check out a wide range of vehicles from several decades, examine the engines, and see photos from the production facilities. Each car has been lovingly restored; it's rare to see so many pristine models in one location. If you happen to be in town in June, check the calendar for the museum's annual car show.

  Location

  777 Arnold Dr # 200, Martinez, CA 94553

• Benicia Historical Museum

  Learn more about the military presence in this part of California at the Benicia Historical Museum. The location itself is a part of history; it was once used as a camel barn when the U.S. military was experimenting with camels as pack animals before the Civil War. Today, you can walk through the old stone structure to explore exhibits about the original Native American people, the Gold Rush, and the military presence in Benicia. In the Powder Magazine, you can see where explosives were once stored. With its imaginative exhibits, this museum is fun for all ages.

  Location

  2060 Camel Rd, Benicia, CA 94510

Nearby Shops and Restaurants

• Romancing the Home

  Located in a historic part of Benicia, Romancing the Home is a beautiful gift shop. It's easy to spend an hour browsing candles, gifts, home decor, and more.

  Location

  617 1st St, Benicia, CA 94510

• Pegasus Bicycle Works

  Explore the stunning local trails after a stop at Pegasus Bicycle Works. This locally owned bike shop offers everything from new bikes to small accessories.

  Location

  721 Castro St, Martinez, CA 94553

• Mangia Bene Restaurant

  When you're craving authentic Italian food, head straight to Mangia Bene Restaurant. The interior is relaxed and classic, and the exceptional pasta dishes will leave you wanting seconds.

  Location

  1170 Arnold Dr #116, Martinez, CA 94553

• Ginger Thai Restaurant

  Whether you're in the mood for fried noodles or a classic curry, Ginger Thai Restaurant delivers. Bring your appetite so you can indulge in appetizers such as crab wontons and Thai spring rolls.

  Location

  414 Ferry St, Martinez, CA 94553

How To Get To Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial

Since the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is inside the Military Ocean Terminal Concord, it's not possible to drive directly there. On the day of your scheduled tour, a bus will pick you up at the John Muir National Historic Site (4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez, CA 94553). To get there, connect to CA-4; the monument is located just north of the highway between I-80 and I-680. Get off on Alhambra Avenue, drive north, and take a left turn into the parking lot just after the exit.

Address

4202 Alhambra Ave., Martinez, CA 94553

Fee: Entry Fee (per person)

There is no entry fee.

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is a chance to see a turning point in U.S. military history. After your visit to the memorial, enjoy the remarkable California landscape. An RV makes a great home base for adventures in the mountains and cities of the Bay Area.