Treasure Island wilderness guide
Landform · CA

Treasure Island

Treasure Island is a man-made island situated in the San Francisco Bay, known for its unique views of the city skyline and as a former military base turned residential and event space.

Landform534
DesignationLandform
Total Wilderness Area534
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Treasure Island

Treasure Island is a man-made island situated in the San Francisco Bay, known for its unique views of the city skyline and as a former military base turned residential and event space.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Treasure Island is an artificial landform in the San Francisco Bay, California, constructed in 1936-1937 for the 1939 Golden Gate International Exposition. Originally planned as an airport site, it was used by the U.S. Navy before being transferred back to the City and County of San Francisco. Today, it serves as a mixed-use community with a combination of historic sites, residential developments, and event facilities. Geographically, it offers panoramic vistas of the San Francisco skyline and the Bay Bridge, making it a popular spot for photography and recreation. Its open spaces and unique setting provide a scenic backdrop for various events and activities, while ongoing redevelopment projects promise more amenities for visitors and residents alike.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Treasure Island

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Panoramic views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge✦ Historic structures from the mid-20th century✦ Annual events and festivals hosted on the island✦ Developing residential and commercial spaces
Wilderness Visuals & Gallery

Visual Guide to Treasure Island

Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Treasure Island

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Treasure Island.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees, but some events may have admission costs

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Treasure Island

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

San Francisco, California
⌖ 3.99 miles
Gateway Basecamp

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is an outdoor haven where urban living meets breathtaking nature. From hiking iconic trails to surfing at Ocean Beach, the city offers a dynamic mix of adventures waiting to be explored.

Fall
Explore Town
Oakland, California
⌖ 5.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oakland, California

Oakland offers outdoor lovers a unique blend of bayfront paddling, redwood hikes, and urban biking. From peaceful trails to city shorelines, it’s a lively spot to explore nature alongside vibrant neighborhoods.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Tiburon, California
⌖ 5.87 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tiburon, California

Tiburon is a charming bayside town ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike trails with stunning vistas, kayak in the calm bay waters, and enjoy a picnic with scenic views. A perfect getaway just outside San Francisco.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Albany, California
⌖ 6.11 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albany, California

Albany, California is a waterfront town offering easy hikes, biking on the Bay Trail, and paddling in San Francisco Bay. With parks and unique shoreline access, it’s a great spot for outdoor activities close to the city.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Berkeley, California
⌖ 6.52 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Berkeley, California

Berkeley is an adventure-ready town where outdoor enthusiasts can hike, bike, and paddle amid stunning landscapes. Its rich cultural vibe blends perfectly with access to picturesque trails and parks, making it a top destination for nature lovers.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Sausalito, California
⌖ 6.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sausalito, California

Sausalito effortlessly mixes coastal charm with outdoor allure. From kayaking under the Golden Gate Bridge to cycling the scenic Marin Headlands, adventure seekers find a perfect waterfront retreat for exploration.

Summer
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Treasure Island

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

FoilBoard Training
ADVEXPEDITION
TBD, TBD
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

FoilBoard Training

Ride above the waves at San Francisco’s Clipper Cove with expert foilboarding lessons. Learn WingFoil techniques on calm, protected waters with full equipment included.

Water Activities2 Hours • Maximum 2 People • Learn to Wingfoil! • Starting at $395Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Board Skills Training
ADVEXPEDITION
San Francisco, California
Air ActivitiesADV Bookable

Board Skills Training

Learn foundational kiteboarding skills in a focused two-hour session on San Francisco Bay. This training hones your board handling and body-dragging with expert instruction and a unique "KitePole" tool, making it perfect for aspiring kitesurfers ready to conquer the water.

Air ActivitiesLearn Kitesurfing technical skills! • 2 Hours • 2 Person MaxCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Fleet Week Sails
ADVEXPEDITION
San Francisco, California
SailingADV Bookable

Fleet Week Sails

Witness San Francisco’s iconic Fleet Week from the water aboard intimate yachts with the San Francisco Sailing Company. Experience historic ships, stunt planes, and the Blue Angels in an unforgettable Bay Area adventure.

SailingFrom $99 / Adult • 1.5–2 Hours • All Ages • Parade of Ships, Blue Angels & more!Certified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
7D Ride Experience
ADVEXPEDITION
San Francisco, California
AttractionADV Bookable

7D Ride Experience

Discover San Francisco’s 7D Ride Experience, an electrifying dark ride that combines roller coaster thrills with interactive laser battles against werewolves and zombies. Perfect for adrenaline junkies and gamers alike, this 10-minute adventure packs a punch just steps from the waterfront.

AttractionCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Sip Aboard Wine Therapy: A 90‑Minute Passage Beneath the Golden Gate
ADVEXPEDITION
San Francisco, California
Boat TourADV Bookable

Sip Aboard Wine Therapy: A 90‑Minute Passage Beneath the Golden Gate

A concise guide to San Francisco Bay’s Golden Gate Tour aboard the classic yacht Wine Therapy—what you’ll see, what’s included, and how the small‑group cruise delivers unrivaled bridge and skyline viewpoints.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip