Camping near Avalon, California primarily requires strategic planning due to Catalina Island's limited size and transportation challenges. The 22-mile long island rises to 2,097 feet at Mt. Orizaba, creating microclimates where coastal areas experience stronger winds while inland sites offer more shelter. Winter temperatures rarely drop below 50°F, while summer days typically range from 65-80°F with minimal rainfall concentrated between December and March.
What to do
Spearfishing and snorkeling: Little Harbor Campground offers excellent water activities in a protected cove. "Beach and cove is great for spearfishing or snorkeling. Rock cliffs wrap both north and south of the beach for miles and there are kayaks for rent on the beach, but need to pre-order," notes Jon C.
Hiking trail exploration: From Black Jack Campground, explore nearby trails including routes to the Airport in the Sky. "The Airport In The Sky is approximately 2 miles up the trail in which we enjoyed a breakfast/lunch the next day as the trail led us by," reports Leasa W.
Local boat access: Two Harbors Campground serves as an excellent base for boaters. "Great for those who dock their boats. Easy little walk to town," writes Morgan F. The harbor offers clear water for swimming and kayaking.
What campers like
Solitude and beach access: Parsons Landing Campground provides beachfront camping with minimal crowds. "One of the most amazing campgrounds I've ever stayed at. You're on a sandy beach with waves crashing on the shore. There's only a handful of sites, so try to book this early," advises Luis N.
Wildlife encounters: Black Jack Campground delivers frequent wildlife sightings beyond the famous Catalina fox. "We did have great cell phone service at the campground (Verizon Wireless). However, areas of the TCT to the campground have limited-no service at times," adds Leasa W.
Unique beach features: Little Harbor Campground offers sites directly on a secluded beach. "Most ppl skip this lil gem on the TCT but its my personal favorite. The water is clean and great for snorkeling and the campsites all have amazing views of the cove," shares Mandy E.
What you should know
Transportation planning: Factor in multi-stage travel to reach campgrounds. "Took the ferry from San Clemente to Avalon (45 mins to 1 hour). Then a bus from Avalon to the campsite (1 to 1.5 hours) depending the stop at the airport," explains Jon C. about getting to Little Harbor Campground.
Weather preparedness: Wind protection becomes essential at exposed sites. "Sites have rocks stacked up as a wind shield, it really helps!" says Luis N. about Parsons Landing. Meanwhile, inland sites can experience heavy moisture: "Thick fog soaks everything so use the gear box overnight to keep your stuff dry," warns Sarah M. at Black Jack.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food properly from more than just foxes. "Keep all food and scented items locked up. To be on the safe side we put our entire packs in the critter proof lockers overnight," recommends Leasa W. At Parsons Landing, "The squirrels and birds are ridiculous. They'll chew right through your pack to get your stuff," cautions Lacie G.
Tips for camping with families
Proximity to amenities: Hermit Gulch Campground provides the most convenient family access. "A really nice campground. Only 30 mins walk or 5 minute bus ride from downtown Avalon. I highly recommend using the bus for the first and last trip when arriving as trying to walk there with all your gear can be quite challenging," advises Jonathan K.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant animal sightings. "There is sooooo much wildlife that frequently visits the campground. In one day we saw deer, quail, woodpeckers and the famous Catalina fox," notes Jonathan K. about Hermit Gulch.
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on noise considerations. "I recommend reserving a campsite near the back of the campground as there is more tree cover for shade and it gets you farther away from the main road that receives alot of loud golf cart traffic," suggests Jonathan K.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: Two Harbors Campground offers some RV accommodations but space is tight. "If you have an RV probably be alright," notes a reviewer about San Mateo Campground on the mainland, but on Catalina, RVs are generally limited to Two Harbors.
Supplies and planning: RVers must consider all provisioning needs. "Easy walk down to the 'town' of Two Harbors for a Buffalo Milk drink or across the island for views on the South Side of the Island," mentions Hayley K., highlighting the campground's walkable access to limited amenities.
Traveler
