There’s something fishy about this month’s full moon. The name “Sturgeon Moon” may seem like a bit of a head scratcher, but it’s a name that’s rooted in Native American lore from the East Coast. For those cultures, this month’s moonrise marks prime time for snagging lake sturgeon in eastern lakes and rivers.

Here on the West Coast, we too have sturgeon. The staggeringly large white sturgeon—growing up to 20 feet long—thrives in the murky waters of San Pablo Bay, right off China Camp. This federally endangered species is North America’s largest freshwater fish, though it also thrives in brackish bay waters like those fronting our park. While we won’t spy any of these watery monsters on our full moon hike, we will take in August’s luminous moonrise from a stellar vantage point overlooking the bay.

Be sure to arrive by 7:30 p.m. (hike starts promptly at 7:45 p.m.).

Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.

Date: Saturday, August 9

Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

Location: China Camp Ranger Station

Difficulty: moderate 3.5-mile round trip hike with 500-foot ascent

Cost: free to FOCC members $5 donation appreciated for non-members

Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

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