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Alcatraz Island: fees, hours, camping and when to visit

Updated October 29, 2026. Based on National Park Service data. Published by Humblebee.

Entrance fee
None[1]
Visitor centers
1[2]

Alcatraz Island is a unit of the U.S. National Park System in California[3]. NPS lists it as a fee-free park with no entrance fee, and you reach the island by commercial ferry[1][4].

Entrance fees and passes

The National Park Service lists no entrance fee for Alcatraz Island[1]. Some tours, campgrounds or permits inside a park can still have their own fees.

When to visit and hours

NPS says the ferry schedule changes with the season, so check the current times before you plan your day[4]. Once you are on the island, you can stay until the last ferry[4]. NPS notes that tickets can sell out quickly and recommends reservations[4]. The island is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day[4]. NPS describes the weather as changeable, with cold foggy mornings that can turn sunny and then foggy again[5]. It says spring and fall tend to be the most pleasant seasons, summers tend to be cool and foggy, and winter is the rainy season[5].

Pets and dogs

The national NPS pet rule says pets must be crated, caged or on a leash no longer than six feet where they are allowed, and they are not allowed in public buildings[6]. Service animals are excepted[6]. NPS lists pets as permitted on 0 of the 5 things to do at Alcatraz Island, so ask the park before bringing a pet[7].

Before you go

Questions people ask

Is there an entrance fee for Alcatraz Island?
NPS lists Alcatraz Island as a fee-free park with no entrance fee[1]. Access is by commercial ferry, so check the ferry operator for ticket details[4].
How do I get to Alcatraz Island?
NPS says access is via commercial ferry service, and the ferry schedule changes seasonally[4].
Do I need to reserve tickets?
NPS notes that tickets sell out quickly and recommends reservations[4].
When is Alcatraz Island closed?
NPS lists closures on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day[4].
Are dogs allowed on Alcatraz Island?
NPS lists pets as permitted on 0 of the 5 things to do there[7]. The national rule also bars pets from public buildings, with service animals excepted[6].

Facts and sources

  1. NPS lists Alcatraz Island as a fee-free park: there is no entrance fee. National Park Service
  2. Visitor centers listed by NPS: 1 (Dock Ranger Station). National Park Service
  3. Alcatraz Island is a unit of the U.S. National Park System in California. National Park Service
  4. Operating hours, Alcatraz Island: Access to Alcatraz Island is via commercial ferry service. For ticket reservation and schedule call (415) 981-7625 or go to www.alcatrazcitycruises.com. The ferry schedule changes seasonally. Alcatraz is closed on... National Park Service
  5. NPS weather and seasons overview for Alcatraz Island. National Park Service
  6. National Park Service rule 36 CFR 2.15: where pets are allowed they must be crated, caged or on a leash no longer than six feet at all times, and pets are not allowed in public buildings, on public transportation or on designated swimming beaches (service... eCFR, 36 CFR 2.15
  7. NPS lists 5 things to do at Alcatraz Island: Visit the New Industries Building, Birdwatching on Alcatraz, View the Alcatraz Fire Engine, Tour the Cellhouse, Explore the Agave Trail. Pets permitted on 0 of them. National Park Service

Fees and hours are what NPS lists in its data at the snapshot date. They change: tell readers to confirm on the official park page before a trip. Visits are NPS recreation visits (counted entries, not unique people). Use them only for this park's own months and years, never to rank parks. Campground list and site counts come from NPS and Recreation.gov records. Count fields can differ slightly between the two. The pet rule is the national baseline (36 CFR 2.15). The park may close more areas to pets. Do not claim specific trails allow dogs unless a fact says so.