Best Tent Camping near Avalon, CA

Catalina Island offers unique tent camping opportunities near Avalon, California, with several established campgrounds along the Trans Catalina Trail (TCT). Parsons Landing Campground provides true beach camping with only eight tent sites situated directly on a sandy shoreline. Black Jack Campground sits at the highest elevation on the island, approximately 11.5 miles from Avalon, offering a more secluded inland experience. Little Harbor Campground features beachfront tent sites with palm trees and ocean views, while Hermit Gulch Campground provides the most accessible tent camping option just one mile from downtown Avalon. Two Harbors Campground, located on the opposite side of the island, offers tent sites with harbor views.

Access to tent campsites requires careful planning as all equipment must be transported to the island via ferry. Most tent campgrounds feature basic amenities including picnic tables, fire pits, and food storage lockers. Potable water availability varies by location, with some sites offering water spigots while others require pre-purchasing water that will be stored in lockers for camper access. Primitive tent camping at Parsons Landing requires hikers to arrange water and firewood delivery in advance. Toilet facilities range from vault toilets to portable restrooms, with some campgrounds offering cold outdoor showers. Wildlife protection measures are essential as island foxes and birds actively seek food at all tent sites.

Tent campers frequently use these campgrounds as overnight stops while backpacking the Trans Catalina Trail. According to reviews, sites at Parsons Landing feature rock walls built as windshields to protect tent campers from strong coastal breezes. One visitor noted that Black Jack Campground offers "well-shaded sites with larger trees" creating a "remote and quiet feeling" despite being inland without coastal views. At Hermit Gulch, campers recommend sites farther from the road to avoid noise from golf cart traffic. Walk-in tent sites at Little Harbor provide spectacular sunset views with spaced-out campsites that include individual water spouts. Backcountry tent camping requires advance reservations for all locations, with pricing typically charged per person rather than per site.

Best Tent Sites Near Avalon, California (6)

    1. Black Jack Campground

    8 Reviews
    Avalon, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 510-8368

    "Great campground that is very accessible to the trans Catalina trail."

    "I'd recommend it only for backpackers. A bit of a hike from Avalon and Airport in the sky, so pack what you need."

    2. Little Harbor Campground

    8 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (310) 510-4205

    "If you’re backpacking through here, I highly recommend you stay the night. A camp site includes potable water, fire pit, picnic table, food storage box. Everything you need. Porta potties available."

    "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)."

    3. Hermit Gulch Campground

    6 Reviews
    Avalon, CA
    1 mile
    Website

    "Hermit Gulch is in a little mountainous valley among Catalina's chapparrel covered slopes."

    "Only 30 mins walk or 5 minute bus ride from downtown Avalon."

    4. Two Harbors Campground

    10 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (877) 778-1487

    "I am glad we pitched in a tent instead of paying for the high price hotels in town. The campground have toilets, running water, and showers."

    "Set on the the terraced edges of Catalina, the views last for days. Two Harbors is often overlooked for Avalon, but it's oh so much better."

    5. Parsons Landing Campground

    5 Reviews
    Two Harbors, CA
    16 miles
    Website

    "Sites have rocks stacked up as a wind shield, it really helps! You’ll also have a picnic table, food storage box, and a fire pit. Vault toilets are available."

    "This is the final campgound on the Trans Catalina Trail and one of my favorites."

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Tent Camping Reviews near Avalon, CA

358 Reviews of 6 Avalon Campgrounds



Guide to Avalon

Tent camping near Avalon, California offers a unique blend of stunning views, outdoor activities, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're looking for a beachfront experience or a secluded spot in the hills, Avalon has something for every tent camper.

Tent campers should check out Two Harbors Campground

  • This campground features clear waters perfect for kayaking and is known for its friendly deer that wander through the sites.
  • With amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, and access to showers, Two Harbors provides a comfortable camping experience.
  • The nearby bar offers a fun spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures, making it a well-rounded destination.

Tips for tent camping near Avalon

  • Consider staying at Black Jack Campground for breathtaking views and easy access to the Trans Catalina Trail, ideal for backpackers.
  • If you're looking for a more remote experience, Parsons Landing Campground offers a unique beachside camping experience with a limited number of sites for added privacy.
  • For those who want to be close to amenities, Hermit Gulch Campground is conveniently located near Avalon, providing easy access to shops and restaurants.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • Little Harbor Campground boasts spaced-out campsites with water spouts and stunning sunset views, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
  • At Two Harbors Campground, campers can enjoy the convenience of firewood delivery and a small market for essentials.
  • Black Jack Campground offers potable water, picnic tables, and vault toilets, making it a solid choice for those looking to hike and camp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Avalon, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Avalon, CA is Black Jack Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Avalon, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Avalon, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.