Hayward Girl Scout Cabin Gets a Boost from Community Support

The historic Hayward Girl Scout Cabin, built in 1940 and a longtime home for local Girl Scout activities, is receiving much-needed improvements, thanks to generous community support and volunteer dedication. A new roof funded through a matching grant from a local family foundation was recently installed, helping preserve this beloved gathering space for generations to come. Volunteers and staff from the Hayward Area Recreation Department continue to work together to maintain and improve the site, with more enhancements planned in the months ahead preparing it for a busy season of Girl Scout programming.

Located in Memorial Park next to the iconic Hayward Plunge (a historic indoor pool) the cabin is a cornerstone of Girl Scouting in the region. It serves as a hub for 1,750 Girl Scouts and 1,900 dedicated volunteers from Castro Valley, Fremont, Hayward, San Leandro, and San Lorenzo. The space hosts troop meetings, overnight programs, volunteer training, and special Girl Scout events year-round. It also supports two volunteer-run camps: Spring Fling Day Camp and Chabot Day Camp. These two camps welcome 250 day-campers and youth program aids (counselors-in-training) annually nurturing friendships, building courage and confidence through outdoor skill-building.

The Hayward Cabin in 1960.

The Hayward Cabin is a community treasure as a place where Girl Scouts from all backgrounds can come together, explore the outdoors, and build confidence. Updating the space isn’t just about fixing a roof; it’s about making sure future generations have access to meaningful, community-centered experiences right here in Hayward.

Stewarding Spaces that Inspire

Girl Scouts of Northern California manages over 26 properties across the region. From expansive camps to offices and community program centers. As stewards of these vital spaces, the organization is committed to maintaining safe, inclusive environments that encourage outdoor connection, strengthen local partnerships, and meet the evolving needs of the communities they serve.

“Maintaining and improving our facilities is an ongoing investment in the future of Girl Scouting,” said Mary-Jane Strom, CEO of Girl Scouts of Northern California. “From roofs to trails to entire campsites, our infrastructure plays a critical role in delivering meaningful outdoor experiences. We’re grateful to the volunteers and partners who help us care for these spaces, and we welcome new support to ensure we can continue this important work.”

The foundation has awarded GSNorCal an $80,000 challenge grant to continue improvements at the Hayward Cabin. If you're interested in supporting these impactful property improvements or learning more about partnership opportunities, contact us at https://haywardgscabin.weebly.com.

Campers at Spring Fling day camp in 2025, learning how to make bird houses.

June 05, 2025