Can I Camp on Channel Islands National Park?

ByJoseph Burtoni

Camping on the Channel Islands is an adventure unlike any other. The serene landscapes, unique wildlife, and breathtaking vistas make it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.

But before you pack your gear and head out, there are a few things you need to know to ensure your trip is safe, enjoyable, and in harmony with the park’s preservation efforts.

Our Santa Cruz Island, Channel Island National Park experience.

We explored Santa Cruz Island in April of 2023 and had an absolute blast. We planned to spend 3-days, 2-nights there but due to an oncoming storm we were encouraged to leave the island on our 2nd day or risk being stuck for an additional day until it was safe for the ferry to pick us up. Do you want to hear more of that story? Check it out here:

Can I Camp on Channel Islands National Park?

Yes, you can camp on Channel Islands National Park! This stunning national park offers camping opportunities on five islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara.

Each island provides a unique camping experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park. Let’s explore which islands are the best for camping and what you need to know for an unforgettable trip.

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    Best Island in Channel Islands National Park to Camp On

    If you’re wondering about the best island in Channel Islands National Park to camp on, it largely depends on what type of experience you’re seeking:

    1. Santa Cruz Island
      • Scorpion Canyon Campground: This is often considered the best island in Channel Islands National Park to camp on due to its accessible location, beautiful scenery, and variety of activities. With 31 campsites, it’s perfect for hikers, kayakers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
      • Del Norte Backcountry Campground: For those seeking a more secluded experience, this campground offers 4 sites that provide a more remote and tranquil setting.
    2. Santa Rosa Island
      • Water Canyon Campground: Another top choice for the best island in Channel Islands National Park to camp on. With 15 sites, it offers stunning beaches, rare plant species, and opportunities to see the endemic island fox.
    3. San Miguel Island
      • San Miguel Campground: This island is ideal for those looking for a rugged and remote adventure. With 9 campsites, you can explore dramatic landscapes and significant archeological sites.

    When we went to Channels Islands National Park, we chose Scorpion Canyon Campground. Almost all of the hikes that we were interested to do were on the Santa Cruz Island so it made the most sense to stay there.

    While we love camping and feel very comfortable with that we don’t do much backpacking anymore, if we did we would have loved to Del Norte Backcountry Campground experience and work our way through the island.

    How to Get There

    To reach the islands, you’ll need to take a ferry operated by Island Packers or use a private boat. Ferries to the islands can take anywhere from 1-3 hours depending on the island and departure point. Be sure to book your ferry tickets well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

    Getting to Santa Cruz Island by Ferry

    The most popular and convenient way to reach Santa Cruz Island is by ferry. Island Packers, the park’s official concessionaire, operates regular ferry services to the island. Here’s how to get started:

    1. Book a Ferry Ticket Visit the Island Packers website to check the schedule and book your ticket. Make sure to reserve in advance, especially during peak travel seasons to ensure availability.
    2. Departure Points Ferries to Santa Cruz Island typically depart from Ventura Harbor or Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. Choose the departure point that best suits your location and travel plans. We left out of Ventura on the 8am ferry.
    3. Parking and Check-in Arrive at least an hour before your scheduled departure to find parking and complete the check-in process. Both harbors offer ample parking facilities. We were able to park our van in their parking during our trip to Channel Islands National Park, it was really nice to know that it was safe and secure in their lot.
    4. Board the Ferry Enjoy a scenic ferry ride to Santa Cruz Island. The journey takes about 1-2 hours depending on weather conditions and your landing spot on the island, either Scorpion Anchorage or Prisoners Harbor. When we went the water was a bit turbulent, so be prepared for that if you get sea sick easily.

    Do you want to take a private vessel of kayak to the islands? Here’s everything you need to know: Ultimate Guide: How to Get to Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park

    What to Bring

    Since there are no services on the islands, campers must come fully prepared. Here’s a packing checklist to ensure you have everything you need:

    Reservations and Permits

    Camping on all the islands requires a reservation. Reservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Here are some key points:

    • Reservations are required year-round.
    • Fees vary depending on the island and the length of your stay.
    • Group size may be limited, so check the specific island regulations.

    Safety and Regulations

    1. Wildlife Interaction
      • Do not feed or approach wildlife. This includes the endemic island foxes and seabirds.
    2. Leave No Trace
      • Follow the Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the natural beauty of the islands.
    3. Weather Awareness
      • Weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for sudden changes and high winds, especially on the outer islands.
    4. Hiking Precautions
      • Stay on marked trails and be cautious of loose rocks and cliffs.

    Why Camp on Channel Islands?

    Camping on the Channel Islands offers a unique opportunity to experience one of California’s most pristine and secluded national parks.

    The islands’ isolation has preserved their natural beauty, providing a glimpse into what coastal California might have looked like centuries ago.

    Conclusion

    So, can I camp on Channel Islands National Park? Absolutely! Whether you choose the accessibility and amenities of Santa Cruz Island, the scenic beauty of Santa Rosa Island, or the rugged adventure of San Miguel Island, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.

    Plan ahead, pack wisely, and respect the natural habitat to ensure these islands remain a treasure for generations to come. Discover the best island in Channel Islands National Park to camp on and start planning your adventure today!

    Happy camping!

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    Joseph Burtoni is the Co-Owner of Katie And Joe On The Go, a blog that shares their love of unique destinations, travel experiences, US National Parks, Van Life, and more.

    After 10+ years in the advertising industry as a Director of Social Media, bouncing around the globe working for some pretty cool companies like Mercedes-Benz, Ram Trucks, NIKON, and more; he realized he wanted more out of life.

    So he made the leap into full-time travel with his partner Kathryn and are now educating others how to do the same thing.