U.S. Penitentiary · Atwater, California
USP Atwater
- Security level
- High + minimum camp
- Medical care level
- 1 of 4
- Mental health care level
- 1 of 4
- Population
- 1,325
- Phone
- 209-386-0257
Last checked: November 3, 2026 (BOP documents for this prison) Intel last checked: November 3, 2026 BOP status updated: Nov 3, 2026, 8:30 pm ET News updated: Nov 3, 2026, 7:00 pm ET
Your loved one here? Look up their exact committed name
Atwater at a glance
Atwater is a high-security federal penitentiary (USP) for men, with a minimum-security satellite camp next to it. It sits in California's Central Valley off Highway 99, about 130 miles south of San Francisco and 60 miles north of Fresno.
- How many people
- 1,178 in the USP and 147 at the camp (BOP, October 29, 2026).
- Medical care level 1
- Generally healthy people under 70 who need to see a clinician only every 6 to 12 months. Examples the BOP gives: mild asthma, diet-controlled diabetes, well-controlled high blood pressure. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Mental health care level 1
- No regular mental health care. People with a major mental illness, or who take antipsychotic medication, are not ordinarily classified at this level. The BOP does not post care levels on its website. This list is dated February 13, 2024 and came out through a public records request. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Who is there
- Men. On the first day of the 2026 audit, ages ran from 21 to 72 at the USP and 21 to 69 at the camp. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, USP Atwater (onsite March 17 to 19, 2026) ↗
- Built for
- 880 people at the USP and 205 at the camp. The audit says the prison was over capacity at some point in the 12 months before March 2026. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, USP Atwater (onsite March 17 to 19, 2026) ↗
- Average stay
- 574.4 days at the USP and 364.8 days at the camp. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, USP Atwater (onsite March 17 to 19, 2026) ↗
- Counts
- At least five official counts every 24 hours. They must stand by their bed at the 3:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. counts, and also at 10:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Tobacco
- "Inmate smoking is prohibited in all BOP facilities." Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
How far is it from you?
Driving directions (Google Maps) → Bus or train (Google Maps) →
Plan your drive around this: No visitors are processed after 2:00 p.m. Processing starts at 8:15 a.m., and you may not be in the parking lot before 8:15 a.m. For SHU and Unit 1B visits, processing stops at 1:30 p.m.
Our miles and time are an estimate from your ZIP code's center. Google Maps gives the exact route. Your ZIP code never leaves your phone unless you tap a Google Maps button.
Visiting hours and days
| Who | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| USP (main prison) | Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays | 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
| Satellite camp | Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays | 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
| Special Housing Unit (SHU): Administrative Detention and Disciplinary Segregation | Sundays and federal holidays only. Non-contact, 2 visitors at most, 1 hour. (The handbook says Mondays; see below.) | 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. |
| Unit 1B | Saturdays and federal holidays only | 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. |
| Reintegration Housing Unit (RHU) | Saturday and Sunday (non-contact) and Monday (contact). (The handbook says Friday; see below.) | 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
No visitors are processed after 2:00 p.m. Processing starts at 8:15 a.m., and you may not be in the parking lot before 8:15 a.m. For SHU and Unit 1B visits, processing stops at 1:30 p.m.
The visiting rules give no regular visiting days except Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays (plus Monday for the Reintegration Housing Unit). Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
The BOP's own papers disagree. Both of Atwater's papers are old. The visiting rules are from February 14, 2017; the handbook was updated April 14, 2023. They disagree: the handbook puts SHU visits on Monday (non-contact) and Reintegration Unit visits on Friday; the rules say Sunday for SHU and Saturday, Sunday and Monday for the RHU. The handbook says processing starts at 8:00 a.m. (rules: 8:15), allows $25.00 for vending (rules: $30.00 per adult), and allows 4 diapers and an infant carrier (rules: 2 diapers, no strollers). The driving directions also differ. Call 209-386-0257 before you drive.
The rules at the door: ID, points, what you can bring
- How many people
- No more than 3 adults and 3 children (under 16) at one time. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Who can be on the list
- Up to 15 visitors, family and friends together. Children who visit must be the son, daughter, brother or sister of the visitor or of the inmate. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- ID
- Everyone 16 or older must show valid government photo ID: a driver's license, state ID card or current passport. Children under 16 must come with an adult who is also on the approved list. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Screening
- You must pass through the walk-through metal detector without setting it off. You, your things and your car can be searched, and you are on video. Refuse a search and you do not get in. Avoid clothes with metal in them. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Money for vending machines
- No more than $30.00 per adult, in one clear plastic change purse no bigger than 8 inches long and wide. Only visitors may use the machines, and all food must be eaten before you leave the room. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- What you can carry
- Only the clear change purse, vending money, your photo ID and essential medication (staff hold it). Everything goes in a clear plastic container. If you were dropped off and have no car, other things can go in a locker, which staff may search. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- For a baby
- Per child: 2 diapers, 1 unopened pack of wipes, 1 change of clothes, 2 clear bottles with contents, 2 small unopened jars of baby food, 1 receiving blanket, 1 clear cup, and 1 clear diaper bag about 12 by 12 inches. No strollers. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- What not to wear
- No low-cut or see-through clothes, tube tops, tank tops, backless or sleeveless clothes, skin-tight clothes, shorts, miniskirts, skirts or dresses above the knee, open-toed shoes, hats, or sports or athletic clothes. No khaki, green, orange, gray or camouflage. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Touching
- A handshake, hug and brief kiss when the visit starts and when it ends. At the camp you may sit side by side, and they may put an arm around your shoulder. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- What they wear
- At the USP they are visually searched before and after the visit and change into a prison jumpsuit. At the camp they wear their issued shirt and pants and are pat-searched. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Parking
- Park in the yellow-lined visitor spaces at the back of the lot. No one may wait in a parked car; drivers who are not visiting must leave and come back. No campers, RVs or tractor trailers. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- When it gets crowded
- The USP visiting room holds 100 people; the camp room holds 65. When it is full, visits are ended based on how far the visitor traveled and how long they have been in the room. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
- Counts
- During an official count you cannot leave, and no one enters or leaves the visiting room until the count clears. Click here to read the source: ATW 5267.08E, Visiting Regulations (February 14, 2017) ↗
How to get on the visiting list
- Your loved one gets you the visitor information sheet and a release authorization form. Atwater's rules give no form number. (The BOP's national visitor form is BP-A0629; not confirmed in Atwater's papers.)
- Fill it out, sign the release, and return it to their counselor with a copy of your government photo ID. Nothing happens until the counselor has all of it.
- The counselor runs a criminal background check (NCIC). Anyone with a criminal record needs the warden's approval.
- The counselor tells them who was approved or denied. They tell you. Do not drive until you are approved.
- The list holds up to 15 people. You must have known them before prison, unless an exception is approved.
- They can change the list once per quarter.
- If they are on holdover (passing through), only immediate family whose relationship can be checked may visit. Approval ordinarily takes about 7 days.
Driving directions (from the BOP)
- From the north (Highway 99)
- Exit Highway 99 at Buhach and turn left. Turn right on Santa Fe. Go to Fox Road and turn left. Continue to Federal Way and turn left.
- From the south (Highway 99)
- Exit Highway 99 at R Street and turn right. Go to Olive Avenue and turn left. Olive becomes Santa Fe. Follow Santa Fe to Fox Road and turn right. Continue on Fox Road to Federal Way and turn left.
- Taxi, bus and train
- Taxi in Merced: 209-722-8294. Greyhound: 800-231-2222. Amtrak: 800-872-7245.
Street address for your GPS: 1 Federal Way, Atwater, Ca 95301. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
The BOP beats to its own drum. The front desk has the final say. Keep a spare outfit in the car.
USP Atwater
Official rules (PDF) No Spanish version posted
9 years old. Ask your loved one to check the copy posted in the unit before you drive.
| Skirts and dresses | No dresses above the knee (0 inches above knee); no miniskirts. |
|---|---|
| Shorts | Not in the written rules. |
| Colors to avoid | No khaki clothing. No green clothing. No orange clothing. No gray clothing. |
| Leggings, spandex | No skin-tight, revealing or form-fitting clothing. |
| Bras and metal | Not in the written rules. Some prisons ban underwire bras anyway, and the penalty can be more than being sent home. Wear a sports bra or a bra with no wire. |
| Camouflage, military | No camouflage clothing. |
| Shoes | No open-toed shoes. |
| Children | Not in the written rules. |
All 18 rules, in the BOP's own words
Length and fit
- No dresses above the knee (0 inches above knee); no miniskirts.
clothing, any dresses above the knee (i.e., skin tight clothing,
- No tank tops or sleeveless clothing.
miniskirts, sleeveless clothing, etc) revealing or form fitting
- No low-cut clothing.
Visitors will not be permitted to wear low-cut
- No tube tops or backless clothing.
or see-through clothing, tube tops, tank tops, backless
- No see-through clothing.
or see-through clothing, tube tops, tank tops, backless
- No skin-tight, revealing or form-fitting clothing.
miniskirts, sleeveless clothing, etc) revealing or form fitting
- No sports or athletic attire.
or athletic attire. Visitors will be permitted to enter the
Colors and uniforms
- No khaki clothing.
clothing, opened toed shoes, hats, suggestive clothing, khaki,
- No green clothing.
green, orange, gray, camouflage color clothing, sports attire,
- No orange clothing.
green, orange, gray, camouflage color clothing, sports attire,
- No gray clothing.
green, orange, gray, camouflage color clothing, sports attire,
- No camouflage clothing.
green, orange, gray, camouflage color clothing, sports attire,
Shoes
- No open-toed shoes.
clothing, opened toed shoes, hats, suggestive clothing, khaki,
Hats, hoods and coats
- No hats.
clothing, opened toed shoes, hats, suggestive clothing, khaki,
- Religious headgear allowed after it is searched.
Visitors will be allowed to wear religious headgear,
Everything else
- No suggestive clothing.
clothing, opened toed shoes, hats, suggestive clothing, khaki,
If they say no
- Visits may be denied for attire; denial documented with a witness.
Operations Lieutenant. Upon denying a visit the IDO or
- IDO (or Operations Lieutenant) decides if questionable attire is admitted.
Officer will summon the IDO to the Front Lobby to determine as
Inmate mailing address
Use their committed name exactly as the BOP Inmate Locator shows it. The name and number below are examples (JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES, 12345-678).
JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES Reg. No. 12345-678 USP Atwater P.O. Box 019001 Atwater, Ca 95301
Put their name and register number on the envelope. Regular mail is photocopied; they get the copy, not your original. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
Use the P.O. Box only. Never mail to the street address (1 Federal Way, Atwater, Ca 95301).
- Photocopied
- Letters, cards and envelopes are photocopied before they get them. Atwater throws the originals away after 30 days, and they cannot be mailed home. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Drug testing
- All books, magazines and pictures are drug tested before they get them, so they take a little longer. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Books
- Soft-cover only, sent straight from the publisher, a book club or a bookstore. No more than 5 books in one mailing. Hardcover books are not allowed at Atwater. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Legal mail
- Opened only in front of them. The envelope is photocopied and they do not keep the original. The front must say "Special Mail – Open only in the presence of the inmate" or similar. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Packages
- Every package needs approval first. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Mail days
- Mail is handed out Monday through Friday, not on weekends or holidays. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Their letters to you
- At a high-security prison they cannot seal their outgoing letters, and staff may read them (legal mail excepted). Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Money
- Never put money in a letter. It goes to the BOP lockbox in Des Moines, Iowa (see the Money tab). Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
Books and magazines: at a high security prison, books and magazines must come straight from a publisher, book club or bookstore (Amazon, for example), never from home.
How to send money to an inmate here
Use their committed name exactly as the BOP Inmate Locator shows it. The name and number below are examples (JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES, 12345-678).
Money never goes to Atwater. It goes to the BOP, and the BOP puts it on their account. There are 3 ways. Each one below shows you the actual form and exactly what to write in each box, already filled in with their name and number.
First, they must sign the power-of-attorney form (BP-A0407) when they arrive. Until they do, MoneyGram and Western Union money cannot post. Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
1. Postal money order Our pick
"Postal" means the U.S. Post Office. A postal money order is one you buy at the counter of a U.S. Post Office, from the United States Postal Service. Money orders sold at Walmart, a grocery store, a bank, Western Union, MoneyGram or a check-cashing store are not postal money orders.
Why it matters: a postal money order has no hold. Once the BOP's lockbox in Des Moines gets it, it goes on their account. Every other money order and every personal or company check is put on a 15-day hold first, and the 15 days only start when the lockbox receives the envelope. Add the days it spends in the mail, and it can be close to three weeks before they can spend it.Click here to read the source: BOP, Sending money by U.S. mail ↗ Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗ Foreign money orders and checks are held 45 days. The postal money order is also the cheapest way.
The Post Office's own steps
- Decide the amount. Up to $1,000 in one money order.
- Go to any Post Office.
- Bring cash or a debit card. The Post Office does not take credit cards for money orders.
- Fill it out at the counter with the clerk. Use the boxes below.
- Pay the amount plus the fee: $2.65 for up to $500, $3.75 for $500.01 to $1,000.
- Keep your receipt. You need it to track the money order or replace it if it is lost.Click here to read the source: U.S. Postal Service, Money Orders ↗
- Pay toJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONEStheir committed name, exactly as the BOP Inmate Locator shows it
- Address (under Pay to)Federal Bureau of Prisons, P.O. Box 474701, Des Moines, IA 50947-0001
- FromMARIA SMITH-JONESyour name
- Address (under From)123 Main Street, Trenton, NJ 08608your address
- MemoReg. No. 12345678their 8-digit register number, no dash
Unconfirmed: the BOP does not say in writing what goes on the "Pay to" line. Their name is what families use. The name and number on the envelope are what the BOP requires.
Maria Smith-Jones
123 Main Street
Trenton, NJ 08608
123 Main Street
Trenton, NJ 08608
STAMP
Federal Bureau of Prisons JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES 12345678 Post Office Box 474701 Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
Lost it? Tracking and replacing a money order
- Keep the receipt. You need the serial number, post office number and amount to track it at tools.usps.com/money-orders.htm.
- Lost or stolen: take the receipt to any post office and ask for a Money Order Inquiry. It costs $23 and can take up to 60 days.
2. MoneyGram
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours if sent 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern, any day. Up to $300 per payment. In a store, you fill out the blue ExpressPayment form. This is the BOP's own filled-in sample:
- Company NameFederal Bureau of Prisons
- City & StateWashington, DC
- Receive Code7932always the same
- Account Number of the Bill to Pay12345678SMITHJONESone letter or number per box
- Amount to Payup to $300
- Message to Biller or Beneficiary NameJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
Top section: your own name, address, phone and signature. Pay cash. Keep the receipt with the reference number.
Unconfirmed: some stores now type it into a screen instead of using the paper form. The boxes are the same.
Doing it online or in the MoneyGram app instead
- Go to moneygram.com (Pay Bills) or the MoneyGram app and log in or sign up.
- Search the biller 7932 or "Federal Bureau of Prisons."
- Enter the amount (up to $300) and the account number
12345678SMITHJONES. - Pay with a debit or credit card. A credit card can charge a cash-advance fee.
3. Western Union
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours. In a store, ask for the Quick Collect form ("To Send Money Form for Bill Payments"). Do not ask for a regular money transfer. This is a real Quick Collect form filled in with the BOP's values:
- Dollar Amountyour amount
- Pay toFederal Bureau of Prisons
- Code CityFBOP, DC
- AttentionJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
- Account # with Company (in the SENDER section: this is where people get lost)12345678SMITHJONES
Leave Promo Code blank. Put your own name, phone and address in the rest of the Sender section and sign at 3. Pay cash (some stores take debit). You get a 10-digit tracking number (MTCN). Keep it.
Unconfirmed: some stores have the blue Quick Collect form, some a "Pay a Bill" section, and some a phone to an agent.
Doing it online (Send2Corrections), screen by screen
You need a photo ID to set up the account: your name must match your ID exactly.
- Go to send2corrections.com or the Send2Corrections app. Log in or register.
- "Who are you sending to?" Choose the facility Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP DC).
- Receiver first name, middle name (optional), last name: exactly as the BOP has it.
- Commissary number: type only the 8 digits,
12345678. No dash, no name. The site adds the last name itself and shows the full account number in a grey box you cannot type in. - Ignore the pop-up that says "BOP number will not work." That text shows for every prison. The register number is what works.
- Amount: $1 to $300. Pay by card, or choose "Pay Cash (in-store)" and pay at a Western Union counter within 12 hours, or it cancels.
Hyphenated last name? The site drops the hyphen: Smith-Jones becomes 12345678SMITHJONES.
Money sent to the wrong person is not returned by Western Union. Western Union payments cannot be changed after they are sent.
Commissary list: what they can buy and what it costs
Atwater's handbook (April 14, 2023) says the monthly spending limit is $300.00. National BOP policy (PS 4500.13, May 7, 2026) raised the limit from $360 to $460 a month, plus $50 more in November and December. Atwater's handbook has not caught up. If they refuse to pay under the court-fine payment plan ("refuse" status), their limit is $25.00 a month. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗ Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
How shopping works at Atwater
- They must shop on their unit's scheduled date and time. The schedule is posted on the inmate bulletin board. (From the commissary list.)
- All sales are final. No add-ons. (From the commissary list.)
- Every item is limited to one unless the list says otherwise. Stamps, photo tickets and copy cards are capped at $25.20 total. (From the commissary list.)
- Religious items must be approved by the chaplains first. (From the commissary list.)
- They pay by showing their ID card or by fingerprint.
(K) kosher, (H) halal. A number like "max 3" is the most they can buy at once. From the official list approved June 29, 2023. Prices change without notice. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Commissary Shopping List (signed June 29, 2023) ↗
Stamps, photo tickets, copy cards (limit $25.20 total)
- ADDITIONAL OUNCE STAMP$0.24
- 1st CLASS FOREVER STAMP$0.63
- ONE DOLLAR STAMP$1.00
- BOOK OF FOREVER STAMPS max 2$12.60
- PHOTO TICKETS (local use only) max 10$1.00
- COPY CARD (local use only) max 2$6.00
Sodas (limit 2 any combo)
- PEPSI MAX (12PK) (K) (local use only)$6.40
- STARRY LEMON LIME (12 PACK) (K) (local use only)$6.40
- MTN DEW SPARK (12 PACK) (K) (local use only)$6.40
Ice cream (limit 2 any combo)
- TWIX ICE CREAM$1.50
- M&M ICE CREAM$1.70
Electronics
- CASIO WATCH BLACK ON BLACK max 1$43.25
- SANDISK CLIP SPORT MP3 PLAYER (marked "XXXX" on the list) max 1$88.40
- DIAMOND DR-35C RADIO max 1$36.75
- SCORE 7t TABLET max 1$131.30
Food items
- JALAPENO SUMMER SAUSAGE max 14$2.30
- BEEF SAUSAGE, REGULAR max 14$2.30
- HONEY PEPPER TURKEY LOG max 14$2.40
- SHREDDED PORK, CHILORIO max 6$5.85
- TUNA, BUMBLEBEE (K) max 14$1.75
- SHREDDED CHICKEN BREAST max 6$4.50
- LUPCHUNG CHINESE SAUSAGE max 14$2.85
- MACKERAL POUCH (K) max 14$1.70
- JALAPENO MACKERAL (K) max 14$1.45
- OYSTERS CHICKEN OF THE SEA (K) max 14$2.15
- FLOUR TORTILLAS (K) max 10$2.60
- RICE & CHEESE (K) max 14$1.80
- RICE, WHITE (K) max 14$1.25
- PEPPERONI SLICES max 6$3.30
- SPAM max 14$1.45
- MOZZARELLA CHEESE BAR (K) max 4$2.35
- JALAPENO CHEESE SQUEEZE max 2$4.40
- SHREDDED BEEF POUCH (K) max 6$3.30
- BUTTERBALL TURKEY STICK max 14$0.95
- PEANUT BUTTER SQUEEZE max 14$0.50
- CHILI WITH BEANS HOT max 10$2.05
- REFRIED BEANS (K) max 14$1.75
- CHORIZO REFRIED BEANS (K) max 10$1.90
- CHOCO CARA ULTRA FIT PROTEIN max 12$1.80
- COOKIES & CREAM ULTRA FIT PROTEIN max 12$1.80
- CARNITAS SHREDDED PORK max 6$5.20
- BEEF & JALA CHEESE STICK max 10$1.60
Soups (limit 14 each)
- RAMEN, TEXAS BEEF (K) max 14$0.50
- RAMEN, CHICKEN (K) max 14$0.50
- RAMEN, CAJUN SHRIMP (K) max 14$0.50
- THAI NOODLE SOUP max 14$1.25
Condiments
- GARLIC CHILI SAUCE (K) max 2$2.60
- SALT & PEPPER SET (K) max 1$1.95
- SALSA VERDE (K) max 4$1.30
- CREAMY CHIPOTLE SAUCE (K) max 2$2.75
- SWEET SOY GLAZE (K) max 2$3.45
- GREEN HABANERO (K) max 2$1.85
- RED SALSA (K) max 4$1.30
- RED WING MAYO 12OZ (K) max 2$3.80
- DRAGON EXPRESS SOY SAUCE (K) max 2$1.30
- HONEY (K) max 2$3.95
- SWEET & HOT CHILI SAUCE max 2$3.80
- CREAM CHEESE SQUEEZE max 14$0.55
- LEMON JUICE BOTTLE (K) max 2$0.85
- JALAPENO PEPPERS (K) max 2$2.45
- YELLOW CHILI PEPPERS (K) max 2$2.65
- TITO'S HOT DILL PICKLE max 2$1.00
- RANCH DRESSING PACKET max 14$0.50
- MINCED GARLIC (K) max 2$1.50
- MINCED ONION (K) max 2$2.40
- SOUL SEASONING (K) max 2$1.50
- HOT PEPPER MIX (K) max 2$3.15
- GOYA SEASONING max 2$2.00
Chips (limit 4 each)
- JALAPENO CHEETOS max 4$2.75
- SPICY NACHO DORITOS max 4$2.70
- SWEET AND SPICY DORITOS max 4$2.70
- NACHO DORITOS max 4$2.70
- TORTILLA CHIPS max 4$3.15
- PEPE'S PORK RINDS max 4$1.40
- HOT CHEETOS max 4$2.60
- CHEX MIX CHEDDAR max 4$3.60
- HOT FRIES max 4$1.80
Cookies & crackers
- MARIANITA COOKIES max 6$1.00
- VANILLA WAFERS (K) max 2$2.50
- SALTINE CRACKERS (K) max 2$2.10
- SNACK CRACKERS (K) max 2$4.15
- CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES (K) max 4$1.80
Snacks & nuts
- FUDGE DIPPED GRANOLA BARS (K) max 4$3.10
- KAR'S MIXED NUTS (K) max 6$3.45
- SMOKED ALMONDS (K) max 6$1.50
- KAR'S DARK CHOCOLATE AND NUT MIX (K) max 6$2.80
- PALMER'S SNACK MIX max 6$1.35
- TROPICAL MIX max 6$1.10
Pastries & cereal
- OATMEAL VARIETY PACK (K) max 6$3.85
- ZEBRA CAKES (K) max 4$2.70
- STRAWBERRY DONUTS max 4$2.45
- NUTTY BUDDY BARS max 4$2.70
- BAGEL, PLAIN (K) max 10$0.55
Candy
- TWIX max 10$1.35
- REESE'S PEANUT BUTTER CUPS (K) max 10$1.40
- SNICKERS (K) max 10$1.35
- REESES FASTBREAK (K) max 10$1.40
- PEANUT CLUSTERS max 10$1.80
- M&M'S PEANUT max 10$1.35
- BRIDGE MIX max 10$1.80
Beverages
- SKITTLES DRINK MIX max 1$5.85
- SUPER C DRINK MIX max 4$1.95
- SWISS MISS HOT COCOA max 2$2.60
- COFFEE, KEEFE (K) max 6$3.45
- COFFEE, KEEFE ALTURO (K) max 6$2.60
- CREAMER, CHOCOLATE CREME (K) max 1$7.75
- CREAMER, NON-DAIRY (K) max 6$1.50
- EQUAL SWEETENER (K) max 2$1.95
- BACK COUNTRY DRY MILK (K) max 4$2.00
Over-the-counter medications: pain relievers
- IBUPROFEN TABLETS 200MG max 2$1.80
- NAPROXEN SODIUM (Like Aleve) max 2$2.80
- ACETOMINOPHEN (TYLENOL) max 2$1.75
- ARTIFICAL TEARS max 2$2.60
- ALLERGY RELIEF TABLETS max 2$1.50
- LORATADINE TABLETS (Like Claritin) max 2$2.20
- COUGH DROPS SF (BLACK CHERRY) max 2$1.60
- TUSSIN COUGH SYRUP max 2$2.25
- NASACORT SPRAY max 2$19.95
Antacid / anti-diarrheal / laxative
- LIQUID ANTACID (Like Mylanta) max 2$4.00
- TUMS max 2$2.80
- PEPCID AC max 2$4.95
- OMEPRAZOLE (ACID REDUCER) max 2$8.95
- STOMACH RELIEF (Like Pepto Bismol) max 2$3.40
- MILK OF MAGNESIA max 2$3.10
- FIBER CAPLETS max 2$6.00
- LACTOSE PILLS max 2$5.50
Creams / ointments / hygiene
- FUNGI NAIL ANIT-FUNGAL PEN max 2$11.70
- TOLNAFTATE CREAM (Like Tinactin) max 2$1.50
- CLOTRIMAZOLE CREAM (Lotrimin) max 2$1.95
- ANTI FUNGAL FOOT POWDER max 2$3.65
- HEMORRHOIDAL CREAM max 2$3.80
- HYDROCORTISONE CREAM max 2$1.80
- TRIPLE ANTIBIOTIC OINTMENT max 2$2.50
- MUSCLE AND JOINT GEL max 2$1.85
- VIJON CHEST RUB max 2$1.95
- ANESTHETIC ORAL GEL max 2$1.50
- ACNE TREATMENT max 2$1.30
- NEUTROGENA ACNE SOAP max 2$4.25
- SULFUR 8 SHAMPOO max 2$4.60
- SULFUR 8 CONDITIONER max 2$4.55
- COAL TAR GEL SHAMPOO max 1$4.10
- SELSUN BLUE max 2$5.45
- DEBROX EAR WAX REMOVAL max 1$2.40
- REPEL INSECT LOTION max 2$8.75
- ARCH SUPPORTS (write in size) max 1$19.50
- COMFORT INSOLES 10/11 max 1$15.60
- COMFORT INSOLES 12/13 max 1$15.60
Vitamins
- VITAMIN "E" max 2$3.65
- CALCIUM SUPPLEMENT max 2$2.90
- VITAMIN "C" max 2$3.50
- MULTIVITAMINS max 2$2.90
- VITAMIN "B" max 2$3.50
Religious items (must be pre-approved by chaplains)
- RASTA CROWN$8.50
- KUFI (WHITE or BLACK)$6.00
- NATIVE HEAD BAND, AZTEC RED$2.11
- NATIVE HEAD BAND, AZTEC BLACK$2.75
- ISLAMIC PRAYER RUG$11.42
- PRAYER OIL (ask staff for fragrances available)$3.50
Hygiene
- SUAVE ADVANCED LOTION max 2$4.00
- PALMER'S COCOA BUTTER LOTION max 2$6.45
- HYPO ALLERGENIC LOTION max 2$1.95
- SUNSCREEN SPF50 LOTION max 2$6.75
- DOVE SOAP max 4$2.30
- COCO BUTTER SOAP max 4$1.20
- DIAL SOAP max 4$1.70
- LEVEL 10 MOISTURIZING SOAP max 4$1.00
- SILK AFRICAN SOAP max 4$1.50
- SHEA MOISTURE SOAP max 4$5.25
- IRISH SPRING ICY BLAST 3 PACK max 2$5.20
- BODY WASH-LIQUID max 2$2.40
- SHEA MOISTURE BODY WASH max 2$11.75
- DEGREE DEODORANT max 2$3.20
- SPEEDSTICK FRESH DEODORANT max 2$3.15
- CHAPSTICK, LEVEL 10 max 2$0.80
- NOXEMA max 2$1.85
- BABY POWDER max 1$1.50
- COTTON SWABS max 2$0.80
- SOAP DISH max 1$0.70
- BANDAGE STRIPS, 10 CT max 2$0.95
- CLIPPERS, NAIL (NO FILE) max 1$0.80
- CLIPPERS, TOE NAIL (NO FILE) max 1$1.10
- TWEEZERS max 1$1.10
- PONDS SKIN FADE CREAM max 2$2.30
- ALMAY DEODORANT max 2$3.25
Dental products
- COLGATE CAVITY TOOTHPASTE max 2$3.50
- ULTRABRITE TOOTHPASTE max 2$2.00
- SENSODYNE TOOTHPASTE max 2$9.55
- PLACKERS DENTAL FLOSSERS max 1$1.75
- FIXODENT DENTURE CREAM max 1$4.55
- DENTURE BRUSH max 1$1.75
- DENTURE CUP max 1$0.60
- MOUTHWASH, CLOSEUP max 2$2.40
- TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER max 1$0.45
- TOOTHBRUSH, COLGATE max 2$0.85
- MISWAK max 1$1.19
Shaving products
- RAZOR BUMP STOPPER max 2$4.15
- MAGIC SHAVE (TUBE) max 1$6.90
- SHAVING CREAM max 2$2.70
- BIC DISPOSABLE RAZORS max 2$2.55
- PERSONNA M5 MAGNUM RAZOR max 1$7.65
- REFILL BLADES, M5 MAGNUM max 1$7.65
- CLEAR SHAVING BAG max 1$5.80
- AFTERSHAVE, OCEAN CLEAR max 2$1.30
Hair care
- SUAVE COCONUT SHAMPOO max 2$2.40
- HEAD & SHOULDERS SHAMPOO max 2$8.00
- V05 SHAMPOO max 2$1.95
- V05 CONDITIONER max 2$1.95
- XCESS HAIR GEL max 2$1.50
- LUSTER'S PINK HAIR MOISTURIZER max 2$5.90
- MURRAY'S POMADE max 2$3.25
- SOFTEE HAIR FOOD max 2$2.10
- AFRICAN GOLD HAIR GREASE max 2$5.75
- BLACK RUBBER BANDS (local use only) max 1$0.85
- OVAL HAIR BRUSH max 1$1.55
- AFRO PICK max 1$0.50
- PALM BRUSH max 1$0.55
- VENTED BRUSH max 1$0.75
- STRETCH CAP (local use only) max 2$3.50
- SCISSORS, SAFETY max 1$4.50
- CONDITIONING HAIR RELAXER max 2$10.25
Clothing (sizes priced separately)
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE L max 2$7.95
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE XL max 2$7.95
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE 2XL max 2$12.05
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE 3X max 2$12.05
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE 4X max 2$9.50
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE 5X max 2$10.95
- T-SHIRT, SHORT SLEEVE 6X max 2$10.95
- SWEATPANTS L max 2$21.15
- SWEATPANTS XL max 2$21.15
- SWEATPANTS 2XL max 2$19.95
- SWEATPANTS 3XL max 2$22.95
- SWEATPANTS 4X max 2$25.95
- SWEATPANTS 5X max 2$29.25
- SWEATPANTS 6X max 2$26.50
- SWEATSHIRT L max 2$16.35
- SWEATSHIRT XL max 2$15.60
- SWEATSHIRT 2XL max 2$20.40
- SWEATSHIRT 3X max 2$20.40
- SWEATSHIRT 4X max 2$20.40
- SWEATSHIRT 5XL max 2$24.95
- WHITE "A" SHIRT (3 PACK) L max 2$12.95
- WHITE "A" SHIRT (3 PACK) XL max 2$12.95
- WHITE "A" SHIRT (3 PACK) 2X max 2$17.55
- WHITE "A" SHIRT (3 PACK) 3X max 2$17.55
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS L max 2$5.20
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS XL max 2$5.20
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS 2X max 2$5.85
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS 3X max 2$6.50
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS 4X max 2$6.50
- PRO 5 BOXER SHORTS 5X max 2$7.15
- T-SHIRT, LONG SLEEVE XL max 2$10.50
- T-SHIRT, LONG SLEEVE 2X max 2$13.00
- T-SHIRT, LONG SLEEVE 3X max 2$12.35
- T-SHIRT, LONG SLEEVE 4X max 2$13.65
- T-SHIRT, LONG SLEEVE 5X max 2$13.65
- PRO 5 BOXER BRIEFS L max 2$5.80
- PRO 5 BOXER BRIEFS XL max 2$5.80
- PRO 5 BOXER BRIEFS 2X max 2$5.80
- PRO 5 BOXER BRIEFS 3X max 2$5.15
- PRO 5 BOXER BRIEFS 4X max 2$8.75
- THERMAL PANTS L max 2$7.65
- THERMAL PANTS XL max 2$7.65
- THERMAL PANTS 2X max 2$8.50
- THERMAL PANTS 3X max 2$9.90
- THERMAL PANTS 4X max 2$12.30
- THERMAL TOP XL (local use only) max 2$6.75
- THERMAL TOP 2X (local use only) max 2$8.50
- THERMAL TOP 3X (local use only) max 2$10.75
- THERMAL TOP 4XL (local use only) max 2$11.65
- THERMAL TOP 5X (local use only) max 2$16.25
- THERMAL TOP 6X (local use only) max 2$15.55
- FLEXFIT HAT GREY SM-MED max 1$11.40
- FLEXFIT HAT GREY LRG-XLRG max 1$11.40
- MESH SHORTS W/ POCKETS (write in size)$15.25
- CREW SOCKS, GREY HEEL/TOE max 3$1.55
- ANKLE SOCKS, GREY HEEL/TOE max 3$1.55
Miscellaneous
- SUPREMO LAUNDRY DETERGENT max 2$1.75
- AJAX DISH SOAP max 2$1.85
- BOUNCE DRYER SHEETS max 1$1.95
- CUDDLE SOFT DRYER SHEETS max 1$1.55
- MIRROR, ACRYLIC max 1$1.95
- PLASTIC SPOON (local use only) max 1$0.40
- PLASTIC FORK (local use only) max 2$0.40
- MUG, CLEAR INSULATED W/ HANDLE max 1$3.15
- WATER BOTTLE 2 QT. max 1$6.95
- WATER BOTTLE 1 QT. max 1$3.05
- BOWL, SMALL MICROWAVABLE max 2$3.95
- ENGLISH DICTIONARY / THESAURUS max 1$2.10
- SPANISH / ENGLISH DICTIONARY max 1$2.15
- BLACK BIC PENS (2 PACK) max 2$1.10
- BLUE BIC PENS (2 PACK) max 2$1.10
- LEGAL PAD max 4$1.55
- ENVELOPE, 10" X 13" max 10$0.25
- ENVELOPES, WHITE 3" X 6" (BOX) max 1$1.80
- LEGAL SIZE ACCORDION FOLDER max 1$2.70
- BLACK FOLDER WITH POCKETS max 1$0.50
- MEAD NOTEBOOK max 2$2.00
- ADDRESS BOOK max 1$1.15
- SMALL PHOTO ALBUM max 1$3.60
- MEDIUM PHOTO ALBUM max 1$11.40
- MEDIUM PHOTO ALBUM INSERTS max 1$5.85
- BICYCLE PLAYING CARDS max 2$2.85
- BICYCLE PINOCHLE CARDS max 2$2.45
- LED BOOKLIGHT, MIGHTY BRIGHT max 1$15.50
- CHESS SET max 1$16.40
- DOMINOES max 1$6.15
- GREETING CARD (THINKING OF YOU or B-DAY; limit 6 combo) max 6$0.65
- MULTI-PURPOSE PRINTER PAPER max 2$2.10
- HOLIDAY CARD, ENGLISH max 6$0.65
- HOLIDAY CARD, SPANISH max 6$0.80
- MOTHER'S DAY CARD max 6$0.65
- AA PANASONIC BATTERIES max 4$1.65
- AAA PANASONIC BATTERIES max 4$1.65
- WATCH BATTERY (377, 1220, 1616, 2016, 2025, 2032) max 2$2.60
- CLEARTUNES CT-18 EAR BUDS max 1$2.40
- KOSS CL-20 HEADPHONES max 1$40.95
- SKULL CANDY EARBUDS max 1$12.90
- G-SHOCK WATCH BAND max 1$5.15
- VELCRO WATCH BAND max 1$2.50
- ALARM CLOCK max 1$10.65
- MP3 PLAYER CASE max 1$3.60
- MP3 RETURN ENVELOPE max 1$0.85
- TOWEL, BEIGE BATH max 1$8.70
- FACE TOWEL, BEIGE max 1$1.70
Hobbycraft & recreation (limit 1 each)
- BRISTOL DRAWING PAD 11X14 SMOOTH max 1$10.35
- ART PENCIL SHARPENER max 1$0.65
- CANVAS 11X14 (3PK) max 1$10.35
- MINI-MARKS COLORED PENCILS max 1$1.25
- CARDBOARD MAILOUT BOX 12X12X12 max 1$1.30
- RACQUET BALL max 1$6.30
Yarn (limit 6 each)
- CORNMEAL max 6$7.05
- PLASTIC YARN NEEDLE max 1$1.95
- CROCHET HOOK max 1$1.10
Shoes & misc. (limit 1 each)
- HEAD BAND max 1$1.75
- ATHLETIC SUPPORTER (L or XL) max 1$5.95
- MOUTHPIECE max 1$4.00
- MESH HAND GLOVES (XL or 2XL) max 1$4.75
- GREY GYM BAG max 1$8.95
- HANDBALL GLOVES (M, L or XL) max 1$19.50
- BLACK SHOWER SANDALS (write in size) max 1$7.80
- SHOELACES (BLACK) max 1$1.85
- REEBOK ROYAL (BLACK) 7.0 or 7.5 (see inmate bulletin board for available shoes) max 1$46.80
- UNDER ARMOUR ASSERT 9 (see inmate bulletin board for available shoes) max 1$59.95
- NIKE RENEW ELEVATE 3 (BLACK) (see inmate bulletin board for available shoes) max 1$79.95
Eyewear
- CLIP ON SUNGLASSES max 1$5.20
- SUNGLASSES max 1$3.75
- LOCS SUNGLASSES max 1$6.50
- READING GLASSES (1.00, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, 2.00, 2.50 or 3.00) max 1$5.20
Phone calls and email
- Minutes
- 300 minutes a month. Each call is limited to 15 minutes, with 60 minutes between calls. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Hours
- Phones work 6:00 to 7:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:00 to 9:00 p.m., Sunday through Saturday. Not during their work hours. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Text-only messages on TRULINCS, no attachments, up to 13,000 characters. They pay by the minute. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Paying
- Phone money moves from their commissary account in even dollar amounts. Calls can be monitored and recorded. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
They have to add your number and email to their list first. Emails come through CorrLinks: you get an invitation by email once they add you.
Health care at Atwater
Medical care level 1 and mental health care level 1 (of 4). Generally healthy people under 70 who need to see a clinician only every 6 to 12 months. Examples the BOP gives: mild asthma, diet-controlled diabetes, well-controlled high blood pressure. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Sick call
- Sign-up is 6:00 to 7:00 a.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. A co-pay may apply. They must bring their commissary card. If they get sick later in the day, their work supervisor or unit officer calls Health Services. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Staff on duty
- Medical staff are on duty 12 hours a day, 7 days a week. Evenings, weekends and holidays are for acute problems only. Outside emergency care is available 24 hours a day. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Dental
- Dental sick call sign-up is at the same time as medical. Routine care (cleanings, fillings, false teeth) is requested in writing and goes on a waiting list. New arrivals get a dental exam within 30 days. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Co-pay
- $2.00 for care they ask for themselves. Scheduled and emergency care are free. If they are indigent, the fee is not taken. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Medications
- New medications are picked up at the 6:00 a.m. or 4:30 p.m. pill line, Monday through Friday. Refills are requested on TRULINCS and take about four to five business days. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- In segregation
- People in segregation cannot sign up for sick call. A medical staff member tours those units at least once a day. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
Programs
- RDAP (drug program; can mean up to a year off for those eligible)
- Atwater does not have RDAP. Interviews for it are offered here. They usually happen 24 to 48 months before release. People with a life sentence or less than 24 months left do not qualify. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Challenge Program
- A residential program, typically 9 months, for drug and mental health problems, offered at all BOP penitentiaries. They can volunteer any time by sending a request to the Challenge Program Coordinator. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- UNICOR (prison factory)
- Atwater's UNICOR factory is a recycling center. They can apply for a job there. Refusing to pay court fines bars them from UNICOR work. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- First Step Act sites
- The BOP's program guide names Atwater (ATW) as a site that may offer Federal Prison Industries work, FPI Lean Basic Training, and the Challenge Program. Its RDAP list (updated 6/4/2026) does not include Atwater. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
- Other drug programs
- The Drug Abuse Education Course and non-residential drug treatment (NRDAP). Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Sex offender treatment
- Atwater has no sex offender treatment program. People who are eligible are transferred to a prison that has one. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
- Education
- GED, English as a second language, job training and apprenticeships, adult continuing education, and correspondence courses they pay for. Without a high school diploma or GED, they must attend at least 240 hours of GED class. Click here to read the source: USP Atwater Admission and Orientation Handbook (updated April 14, 2023) ↗
Safety record
Criminal cases at Atwater
- April 2026A Missouri man was sentenced to 6 years for a drug-smuggling scheme at the prison that led to the death of a prison worker in 2024. (YourCentralValley.com)
- November 26, 2025A man walked away from the satellite camp. The U.S. Marshals and the FBI were notified. (BOP press release)
- August 2025The Justice Department said a Florida man used a drone to fly fentanyl into the prison. (YourCentralValley.com)
Deaths announced by the BOP
We found no deaths at Atwater announced by the BOP.
We found no BOP press release announcing a death at Atwater (checked November 3, 2026). The BOP does not publish a full count of deaths at each prison, so this does not mean no one has died there.
Sexual abuse audit (PREA)
The last federal sexual-abuse (PREA) audit visited Atwater March 17 to 19, 2026. Result: 7 standards exceeded, 38 met, 0 not met. In the 12 months before the audit, Atwater recorded 14 sexual-abuse allegations (6 against staff, 8 against other inmates) and 9 sexual-harassment allegations (2 against staff, 7 against other inmates). Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, USP Atwater (onsite March 17 to 19, 2026) ↗
An allegation is a report, not a finding. The audit counts reports made, not what investigators concluded.
News about Atwater
- Federal inmate found dead at USP Atwater; FBI notifiedLos Banos Enterprise · Sep 8, 2026
- Missouri man sentenced for death of Atwater prison employeeABC30 Fresno · Apr 22, 2026
Stories from news outlets that name USP Atwater, checked every day. Last updated Nov 3, 2026, 7:00 pm ET. We link to the original story; we did not write these.
Intel from the Inside
Intel last checked: November 3, 2026
Reports from people inside, in their own words. It is how the place really runs, not official policy, and it can change. We never publish names.
No Intel reported for Atwater yet.
Know something about Atwater that families should know? Tell Scooter. Our team checks every report before it goes up, and we never publish names.