Bay Model Visitor Center

05/30/2026

Saturday, May 30th at the Bay Model!
🔹 11:00 AM: "Trekking the Model" – A expertly guided tour around the Bay with Docent Richard.
2:00 PM: Ranger/Docent Talk – Afternoon talk on the Bay Model, why it was built and the unique history of our building.
While you’re here, don't miss:
*The Marinship Exhibit (WWII history!)
*Stunning local art from our Artist in Residence
*Cyril’s famous ocean-crossing kayak
Come say hi and feel free to ask the rangers about water safety! Come for the model and stay for our occasional seals.

05/27/2026

A day of fun can quickly turn into a tragic event without a life jacket. By always wearing your life jacket and asking others to, it could save your life or the life of someone you care about.

Partying with friends on a boat can be great fun but it can turn tragic in an instant. Watch this fast-paced video to see some young party-goers learn a vit...

05/26/2026

Yes, we absolutely sell America the Beautiful Passes here!

Think of it as your ultimate ticket to adventure. A single pass covers your entrance and day-use fees at thousands of incredible recreation areas across the country. Whether you're exploring lands managed by the Forest Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, or our very own U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this pass has you covered!

We carry a variety of options, including Lifetime Passes for seniors, active-duty military, veterans, and more.

Note: While we have the Lifetime Senior Pass on hand, please keep in mind that we do not carry the annual version.

Ready to start planning your next trip? Stop by and grab yours!

05/26/2026

One of our amazing community partners....

05/25/2026

Today and throughout the year take time to remember the lives lost fighting for our freedom.

05/22/2026

Historically, Memorial Day Weekend is one of the riskiest times of the year for boating and water-related activities. Sadly, many water-related fatalities occur during the holiday weekend. Following these simple tips can help ensure that you have a good and safe Memorial Day weekend. Remember Life Jackets Worn…Nobody Mourns so .

05/21/2026

We will be closed Saturday, May 23rd for the Memorial Day holiday, but we look forward to welcoming you back when we reopen on Tuesday, May 26th at 9:00 A.M.

In preparation for your trip, I’ve included a link to our 10-minute introductory film, From the Sierras to the Pacific, for your group to watch in advance.

Wishing you a safe and wonderful holiday weekend!

Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

05/20/2026

Celebrate by getting prepared for boating season! The BoatUS Foundation offers the only FREE online boating safety course developed specifically for your state. Go to: www.boatus.org/free

05/15/2026

It’s Wear Your Life Jacket at Work Day! This annual event highlights the importance of wearing a lifejacket and takes place just in time for boating season. Be like Ranger Hill and wear your PFD. Regardless of the conditions from lake kayaking to white water rafting in the jungle, she knows the importance of a life jacket.

05/14/2026

Saturday, May 16th

10:00 AM - The Ranger Lowdown
Ever wonder why we built a massive, moving replica of the San Francisco Bay? Kick off your morning with a high-energy intro from our Rangers. You’ll learn exactly why this model exists, the vital work we're doing on the Bay right now, and some "wait, really?" facts that will change how you look at the California coast.

11:00 AM -"Trekking the Model" with Richard
The Ultimate Guided Tour
Don’t just look at the model, trek it! Join our legendary docent, Richard, for a fast-paced, informative hour-long journey across the Bay Model. He’s pulling back the curtain on the USACE Dillard, Racoon, and Cummings to show you exactly how these heavy-hitters keep our waters safe and flowing. If you want to know how the gears of the Bay Model really turn, this is the tour for you!