Tent camping near Avalon, California offers visitors a chance to experience Catalina Island's varied landscapes while navigating the logistics of island camping. Catalina sits 22 miles off the Southern California coast with elevations ranging from sea level to over 2,000 feet. Campers must transport all gear via ferry, typically departing from Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, or Newport Beach, with crossings taking approximately one hour depending on departure point and sea conditions.
What to do
Hike the TCT trails: Black Jack Campground serves as a stopping point along the Trans Catalina Trail, offering access to higher elevation hiking. "Black Jack is the highest campground on catalina. Solid views and sites. I'd recommend it only for backpackers. A bit of a hike from Avalon and Airport in the Sky, so pack what you need," notes Ken in his Black Jack Campground review.
Snorkel and explore marine life: Little Harbor provides excellent opportunities for underwater exploration. "The water is clean and great for snorkeling and the campsites all have amazing views of the cove," shares Mandy E. in her Little Harbor Campground review.
Visit the Wrigley Botanical Garden: Located near Hermit Gulch Campground, the garden showcases Catalina's native plants. "The location is great, about a mile from Avalon and all of the snorkeling spots, and even closer to Wrigley Botanical Garden (which is a must-see while you're there)," according to robherr.
Observe island wildlife: Many campgrounds offer opportunities to spot Catalina's unique wildlife. "There is an added bonus that I felt that made this campground unique to others that I've been to, which is there is sooooo much wildlife that frequently visits the campground. In one day we saw deer, quail, woodpeckers and the famous Catalina fox," reports Jonathan K. about his Hermit Gulch experience.
What campers like
Beach proximity at multiple sites: Parsons Landing offers true beachfront camping with minimal facilities. "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. Sites have rocks stacked up as a wind shield, it really helps!" notes Luis N. in his Parsons Landing Campground review.
Night sky viewing: Two Harbors offers excellent stargazing conditions. "The views from our site were stunning. Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors," writes Katie R. in her Two Harbors Campground review.
Secluded experiences: Some sites offer privacy despite the island's popularity. "Loved this place. Backpacked in and we had the place to ourselves. Pretty barebones but that's what made it so fun," shares Ryan N. about Black Jack Campground.
Convenient town access: Hermit Gulch provides easy access to Avalon's amenities. "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.
What you should know
Gear logistics: Planning transportation of camping gear requires advance preparation. "You have to walk to your site which involves a few hills but I took a few breaks along the way and it was fine. You can pay to get your luggage delivered to your site I am unsure of the price. We got a foldable wagon to lug all our stuff to our site," explains Amber about Hermit Gulch Campground.
Water availability: Water access varies significantly between campgrounds. "No water on site, you must bring your own. Water, firewood, and fire starter are available for purchase. You can buy them at two harbors, which is where they will give you a key for a locker that is at parsons landing which will have all those items," explains Luis N.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food storage is essential at all sites. "The birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second. They even know how to get into unlocked lockers," warns Mandy E. about Parsons Landing.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "Don't get a site near the road if your an early or light sleeper," advises Kaitlyn B. about Hermit Gulch, noting "late hours of the night people are driving up the road in their golf carts which are super loud."
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: For families with younger children, consider proximity to facilities. "This is a traditional, clean, accessible and beautiful. Just an easy option while staying on the island and enjoying all the city of Avalon has to offer. Close to Botanical Gardens, hiking and plenty of money spending opportunities including activities, food and entertainment," recommends Lyle F. about Hermit Gulch.
Plan for transportation costs: Budget for ferry tickets and potential shuttle fees. "The price is steep especially counting in the ferry, but it was a lot of fun and I'd do it again," notes Corey B. about his Two Harbors experience.
Shower access planning: Quarters are required for showers at most campgrounds. "Showers only take quarters so make sure to bring quarters (1 quarter = 1 minute)," advises Jonathan K. about Hermit Gulch facilities.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for wildlife interactions. "At night we had deer walking directly through our site as we were eating dinner (seriously on a few feet away). They didn't both anyone and were really cool to watch," shares Corey B. from his Two Harbors experience.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional RV camping is extremely limited on Catalina Island, with most campgrounds only accommodating tents. "Set on the terraced edges of Catalina, the views last for days. Two Harbors is often overlooked for Avalon, but it's oh so much better," notes Kristil C. about the Two Harbors Campground, one of the few areas with some RV capability.
Consider rental equipment: Rather than transporting large gear, rental options exist. "You can also rent gear for the trip too if you are traveling to the island without gear. Pricing is on the website," shares Hayley K. about Two Harbors.
Alternative lodging: For those wanting RV-like amenities, consider the island's glamping options. "This campground is cool because you can literally take a bus to it. It is right outside of Avalon and walking distance to everything. This is where the TCT begins," explains Morgan F. about Hermit Gulch, which offers some glamping accommodations.
