I am going to make my first visit to CSP Solano this Saturday and have no idea how visiting works at a prison. I've visited at a county jail but thats as far as I've gotten. I know every Prison is different but hopefully you guys can help me out with info on visiting at Solano. I've read a couple of things on here and everyone says to get there before 8am. Is it going to be really bad if I don't get there until 9 or 9:30? See I live in Monterey County and have a 2 year old that needs to be watched while I go. So if I leave here at 7am, I should get there at 9am or so. And does anyone know anything about Yard 3? Thanks for the help!

Do you have your approval to visit?

Yes, I got that last week. Do i call ahead of time or can i just show up?

Just show up.I'd take my approval with me just in case...leave it in the car as they may not allow you to take it in. Make sure you have your ID/DL, visiting money in the denomination required in a clear purse or baggie, one key~no remote, dress appropriately and have a great visit.

I visited CSP Solano the weekend immediately following Thanksgiving. I live in Iowa and had driven out with my four kidlets to visit. I was staying up in Redding and had about a 2 hr drive to get to the prison - which I didn't reach until about 10 am. I was expecting the worst, as holiday weekends are apparently the absolute worst times to visit.

The guard came out, passed out numbers... I had to wait about 15 minutes with some other visitors outside and then he came back out calling numbers in sequential order. After our numbers were called, we were allowed to go inside and sign in. I was able to see my friend within about 30 minutes of my arrival to the prison, but from what I undestand, it really depends on how much traffic they have regarding visitors. Also, if it's foggy, they may not allow physical visits....

Don't wear blue... or any shade of green (not even pastel-my son was wearing a dark olive green, collared dress shirt and my daughter was in pastel slacks... They were referred to as "on the boundary" of permissable and we were advised to abstain from any shade of green). Saturday, my blue jacket was acceptable with no questions asked... Sunday, same guard told me to never wear it there again. It's kind of a hit and miss. I was also told not to wear blue jeans, but I saw other people there wearing jeans... *shrug*

That was my first visit to a state prison, so I can relate to your nervousness.
I hope you have a wonderful visit!