Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion jolted the San Francisco East Bay area, shattering windows and lighting up the night sky.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
About Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
On July 17, 1944, a massive explosion jolted the San Francisco East Bay area, shattering windows and lighting up the night sky. At Port Chicago Naval Magazine, 320 men were killed instantly when two ships loading ammunition for Pacific troops exploded, resulting in the worst home front disaster of WWII. The aftermath illuminated the issues of segregation and racial inequality in the military.
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Driving times from Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial
- Mon
- All Day
- Tue
- All Day
- Wed
- All Day
- Thu
- All Day
- Fri
- All Day
- Sat
- All Day
- Sun
- All Day
Activities
Getting there
The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is on a base and sits on the waterfront. There is no shelter at the memorial, aside from the shuttle. It can be windy and cold during any season. Many people prefer to at least bring a light jacket during the summer, or coat during the other seasons.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial?
- Popular activities include Guided Tours, Park Film.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach John Muir National Historic Site (29 min), Eugene O'Neill National Historic Site (43 min), Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park (51 min), Alcatraz Island (57 min), San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park (58 min), Fort Point National Historic Site (1 h 4 min).