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The Mysteries of Alcatraz Island - How to Plan Your Visit with Children

  • Dec 27, 2023
  • 3 min read

Hey, Camp Chaos enthusiasts! Buckle up for another thrilling episode as we take you on a journey to the infamous Alcatraz Island. This time, our RV rolls into San Francisco, and we're ready to unlock the mysteries behind the iconic rock.


Join Mike, Casey, Harper, and Jack as we navigate the chilling history and haunting stories that surround this enigmatic island.


Mike holds Harper on Alcatraz Island during our visit to San Francisco
Mike and Harper were excited to be visiting the historic island. Is it haunted? You be the judge

Getting to Alcatraz with Little Ones: Tips and Tricks


Visiting Alcatraz with small children might sound like a daunting task, but fear not – we've got you covered with some Camp Chaos-approved tips to make the most of your family adventure.


  1. Book Tickets in Advance: Alcatraz tours are popular, so snag your tickets early. Booking in advance ensures you secure a spot on the ferry, and you won't be left scrambling at the last minute.

  2. Morning Excursion: Consider scheduling your visit in the morning. The weather is often more forgiving, and you'll have ample time to explore before the island gets crowded.

  3. Pack Essentials: Load up your daypack with snacks, water, sunscreen, and layers. San Francisco weather can be tricky, and you'll want to be prepared for changing conditions.

  4. Kid-Friendly Audio Tour: Alcatraz offers an award-winning audio tour, and yes, there's a special version for the little adventurers. It's engaging, informative, and provides a captivating history lesson suitable for all ages.

  5. Stroller Accessibility: Alcatraz isn't the most stroller-friendly destination, but you can still bring one along. Opt for a lightweight, collapsible stroller, as you might need to fold it up on the ferry.

  6. Explore the Outdoor Areas: Let the kiddos burn off some energy in the open spaces on the island. The views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco skyline are breathtaking, and it's an excellent opportunity for a family photo op.

  7. Bring Snacks: We cannot stress this one enough! There are concessions on the ferry but most of them are fairly unhealthy and a bit overpriced. We brought some small sandwiches and crackers which was just enough to tide us over until we got back to the San Francisco mainland.


Harper eats a cracker on the Alcatraz ferry
Snacks, snacks and more snacks! They were a lifesaver


Alcatraz: More Than Just a Prison

As we explored the historic cellblocks, the kids wide-eyed with curiosity, we couldn't help but feel the weight of the island's history. The penitentiary, once home to notorious criminals, is a captivating glimpse into the past. Harper was particularly fascinated by the tales of daring escapes and life behind bars – she's got a future as a junior detective, for sure.


But what intrigued us even more were the whispers of paranormal activity. Alcatraz has gained a reputation for being one of the most haunted places in America. From ghostly apparitions to mysterious sounds, the island's eerie history leaves a lingering presence that you can almost feel.


Jail cells sit empty inside Alcatraz in San Francisco
Hundreds of inmates once occupied these cells, which stand as a startling reminder of just how many people came to the island

The Haunting of Alcatraz: Fact or Fiction?

While exploring the cellhouse, we couldn't shake the feeling that we weren't alone. The tales of Al Capone's banjo tunes echoing in the corridors and the infamous "Battle of '46" seemed to linger in the air. Many visitors, including park rangers, have reported unexplained occurrences, adding to the island's mystique.


Is Alcatraz haunted? Well, that's for you to decide. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, there's no denying the chilling atmosphere that envelopes the island.


A stirring pot sits in a large kitchen inside Alcatraz prison.
The dining area inside the prison was large, and many prisoners claim that the facility had the best food of any institution


Camp Chaos Verdict: Alcatraz Rocks!


Our Alcatraz adventure was nothing short of mesmerizing. The blend of history, mystery, and family-friendly exploration made it an unforgettable experience. So, if you find yourself in the Bay Area, make sure to include Alcatraz Island on your RV travel itinerary. It's a journey through time, a lesson in resilience, and a captivating exploration of the unknown – all in a day's adventure for Camp Chaos!



 
 
 

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