Visitors must make reservations in advance to visit the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, which is open on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, with tours starting at 12:00 PM and lasting about 1½ hours.
There is no entrance fee to visit the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial. Admission is free, though reservations are required for guided tours.
From Oakland, take I-80 East towards Sacramento, exit at Highway 4 East towards Concord, and follow signs to the Military Ocean Terminal Concord, a poignant historical site nestled on the shores of Suisun Bay.
Parking is not available at the memorial; visitors meet at John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez and take a shuttle. No overnight parking or fees applicable.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located on the shores of Suisun Bay in Concord, California, the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is a poignant and historically significant site that honors the lives lost in one of the most tragic events on the American home front during World War II. This memorial, established in 1992 and dedicated in 1994, commemorates the 1944 Port Chicago disaster that claimed the lives of 320 sailors and civilians when two ships loading ammunition and bombs exploded.
The memorial sits on a 5-acre site at the Military Ocean Terminal Concord, formerly the Concord Naval Weapons Station, and is managed jointly by the U.S. Navy and the National Park Service. The area is characterized by the serene waters of Suisun Bay and the surrounding landscape of the San Francisco Bay Area, offering a somber yet beautiful setting for reflection.
While the memorial itself is not centered around a lake, its proximity to Suisun Bay and the surrounding wetlands makes it a place where visitors can observe a variety of wildlife, including migratory birds and marine life. The site is especially evocative during the spring and fall, when the mild climate and blooming flora add a touch of natural beauty to the memorial’s solemn atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the memorial and learn about its history through interpretive programs and exhibits. The nearby town of Concord and the city of Oakland offer additional attractions, including artisan shops, local restaurants, and historical sites. For those seeking more immersive experiences, the Concord area features several hiking trails and parks, such as the Iron Horse Regional Trail, which provide scenic routes for walking and biking.
Special events and programs at the memorial include ranger-led tours and educational programs that delve into the historical significance of Port Chicago and its role in the social justice movements that followed the disaster. Local outfitters and businesses in the area offer additional services and activities, making the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial a must-visit destination for those interested in history, nature, and the unique cultural heritage of the region.
- Area (mi²)
- 0.1
- Annual visitors
- 764
- Established year
- 1992
Top 3 Facts about Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
The 1944 explosion at this naval magazine resulted in the largest domestic loss of life during World War II, killing 320 sailors and civilians instantly when ships loading ammunition and bombs exploded, highlighting the dangerous conditions where sailors handled explosives daily with minimal equipment.
Along the shores of Suisun Bay, this memorial site is a haven for diverse wildlife. Ray-finned fishes swim in the waters, while amphibians and reptiles inhabit the shoreline. The air is filled with the songs of various bird species, and mammals roam the open spaces. The flora is characterized by a mix of coastal and inland plant species, adding to the rich biodiversity of the area. This unique blend of marine and terrestrial ecosystems makes it a compelling destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper connection with the natural world.
On the shores of Suisun Bay, the waters gleam with a soft, silvery hue, reflecting the misty skies of the San Francisco Bay Area. The surrounding hills, part of the Diablo Range, rise gently to heights of over 3,800 feet, providing a dramatic backdrop to this historic site. The climate is marked by cool, breezy days and crisp nights, even in the summer, adding to the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the area.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Living History & Cultural Demos
- Scavenger Hunts
- Volunteer & Stewardship
- Youth Conservation
- Scouting Partnerships
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Arts & Crafts.
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead with a 2-week reservation for guided tours, available Wednesdays to Saturdays. Arrive at John Muir National Historic Site for shuttle pickup. Anticipate a 90-minute tour with some walking; pack snacks as options are limited. Best visited during mild spring or fall seasons.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for variable weather, sturdy shoes for hiking, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a first-aid kit. For longer stays, include camping gear and seasonal attire.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards, to avoid stressing them. Be mindful of nesting sites and avoid disrupting natural habitats. Respect local regulations and keep the area free of litter to preserve the environment.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and around water. Contact park authorities at 911 for emergencies. Wear appropriate clothing and stay alert for slippery areas. Avoid alcohol near cliffs and water. Travel with a companion and carry a first aid kit.
Seasons
Visit in spring for mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and clear skies. Attend the July 17 commemoration ceremony, honoring the 1944 tragedy, though it falls just before summer. Reflect on history amidst blooming flora, a poignant contrast to the site’s somber past.
Visit in summer for warm weather, mild temperatures (70s-80s°F), and the poignant Port Chicago Weekend in July, honoring WWII sailors with commemoration ceremonies, historical tours, and cultural events. Ideal for history enthusiasts and those seeking meaningful outdoor experiences.
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and clear skies prevail. Attend the 78th Anniversary commemoration in October, honoring the brave sailors who lost their lives in 1944. A poignant and historic experience amidst the golden autumn hues.
Visit in winter (Dec-Feb) for a poignant Experience amid mild temperatures (40s-50s°F) and occasional rain, highlighting the solemnity of this historic site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is Oakland, California. The memorial is located near Concord, California, on the shore of Suisun Bay.
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Pets are not allowed, except for service animals as defined by the ADA.
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Parking is not available at the memorial site itself. Visitors must park at the John Muir National Historic Site in Martinez and then take a shuttle to the memorial. There is no parking fee for this process.
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On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion occurred at the naval munitions pier in Port Chicago, California, when the cargo ship SS E. A. Bryan, loaded with munitions, detonated, killing 320 people, mostly African American sailors, and injuring over 250 others. The disaster highlighted racial disparities and unsafe working conditions, leading to significant changes in the U.S. Navy’s policies and practices. It also sparked the Port Chicago mutiny, a landmark case in the fight against racial discrimination in the military.