UMVA has learned that the storied USS Hornet, a retired warship anchored in Alameda County, transforms into a wild, three‑day furry sanctuary each spring on San Francisco Bay.
From May 29 to 31, the massive carrier becomes the epicenter of Galactic Camp, where costumed enthusiasts—known as furries—roam the decks, mingle among historic aircraft displays, and celebrate their alter‑ego animal personas.
The Hornet’s museum, lined with a grim “kill board” that chronicles dozens of downed World War II planes and its combat service in Vietnam, serves as an unlikely backdrop for playful scavenger hunts, raucous Uno tournaments, and even “trash panda” karaoke that echoes across the water.
Mid‑night whispers promise a more daring experience: adult‑only “fursuit games” featuring risqué challenges and eclectic toys, designed for those who crave a thrill beyond the usual convention fare.
Attendees choose their rank‑based tickets—Seaman at $80, Petty Officer at $150, Captain at $300—mirroring the ship’s naval heritage while funding the preservation of its historic vessels.
Last year, a participant sporting a baby‑blue deer head with golden antlers declared themselves “transgen‑deer,” a moniker that sparked laughter and curiosity throughout the crowd.
Among the sea of fursonas, a grizzled veteran wearing sleek, furry ears insisted he wasn’t a furry at heart but praised the “wonderful energy” radiating from the community.
Beyond the furry festivities, the Hornet also hosts Carrier Con, an anime‑focused gathering that celebrates cosplay, tabletop gaming, and the fusion of Western and Japanese pop culture, further cementing the ship’s role as a vibrant cultural hub.
