Camping on Santa Cruz Island and other islands within Channel Islands National Park requires boat transportation and advance planning. Most camping is primitive, with Santa Cruz Island offering the most developed options at Scorpion Canyon Campground. This walk-in tent campground has potable water, picnic tables, and food storage boxes to protect supplies from island wildlife. The Del Norte Backcountry Campground on Santa Cruz provides a more remote experience with only four sites. Nearby mainland options include Lake Casitas Recreation Area and Cachuma Lake Recreation Area, both offering full RV hookups, cabin rentals, and tent sites.
Access to island campgrounds requires ferry service from Ventura Harbor, with most camping gear needing to be carried approximately one-quarter to three-quarters of a mile from landing areas to campsites. No campfires are permitted on any of the Channel Islands, and all trash must be packed out. Potable water is available at Scorpion Canyon but not at Del Norte Backcountry, requiring hikers to pack in their own water. Mainland campgrounds like Emma Wood State Beach and El Capitán State Beach offer easier road access but remain popular destinations requiring advance reservations. According to one visitor, "Going to Santa Cruz island had been on our bucket list for quite a while, but getting there requires a bit of planning and a boat reservation, but when we finally got there it exceeded our expectations."
The unique island camping environment features encounters with endemic island foxes and native birds, requiring careful food storage in provided "fox boxes." Winds can be significant, especially at Del Norte Backcountry Campground and on Santa Rosa Island, where wind shelters are provided at tent sites. Several visitors mentioned that proper tent staking is essential. Hiking trails from campgrounds lead to scenic overlooks, secluded beaches, and remarkable geological formations. Campers particularly value the isolation and natural beauty. A recent review noted, "If you like the feeling of having an entire island to yourself and don't mind hiking in a bit this is the trip for you." Cell service is limited or nonexistent on the islands, creating a true disconnection from everyday life.
$15 - $40 / night
"For a national park that’s located just off mainland California, Channel Islands feels like a world away from bustling L.A."
"Choose a site a good distance away from the pit toilets if you have a choice."
$15 / night
"It was away from others and felt private with the most spectacular mountains to our back. VERY WINDY! The water tasted icky but after a 10 mile hike we didn't care."
"No water anywhere near the campsite. About 4 miles from Prisoners Harbor ferry landing. Shared the campground with one other group. Only 4 campsites total. Great place to camp for solitude."
$45 - $180 / night
"We live in nearby Santa Barbara, but will use Carp State Beach as a midway meeting point when friends from Southern California and Central California meet up."
"I naively thought the campgrounds wouldn’t be open to capacity and I was hoping for camping not so close to other campers."
$15 / night
"Then you get to start your walk to the camp site. It's about 1.5 miles from the dock and very pretty. Some people brought a rolling cooler but I do not recommend that."
"This is the perfect spot to get away from huge crowds while also having great facilities."
$40 / night
"There are no toilet facilities here (there are some portapotties at the entrance though - those might be for staff though.). The only "amenity" this place offers is trash and recycling bins. "
"We parked next to the sea wall great view of the ocean. Ocean almost comes to your door step"
$45 - $320 / night
"It's convenient, easy drive-up and set up tent camping. The campground and the bathrooms are well taken care of and clean. It's also nice that the beach is nearby."
"This campground doesn’t feel too much like you’re out in the wilderness, but it is on a cliff above the beach on California’s central coast so who’s to complain?"
"We stayed during the recent storm of the century in Central California so weren’t able to take advantage of what the park has to offer. The sites are very long and not too jammed together."
"As with many southern California lakes, there is no human contact with the water due to it being a reclamation center. Unlike many other southern California lakes, this one has a pool!"
$15 / night
"I highly recommend hiking the short distance to inspiration point at sunset, the views are breathtaking."
"This campground is located in Santa Barbara County just west of Ojai. Beautiful mountain scenery. It’s great for tents and RVs. The lake offers fishing and boating, no body contact."
"A nice feature, (we did not take advantage of), is there is a water slide park near the entrance. As far as I know, this is a separate fee, but nothing astronomical."
$45 - $60 / night
"It was a quick drive up the coast and onto this hidden gem. You get access to a private beach with gorgeous California hill views of PCH behind you. Perfect place for families or even RVs."
"Nice big spots, close to the beach. Very quite. Needs to reserve at California State parks website. Dump station and water fill up on your way out not on the campsite, but thats no issue for us."
GuideWe had a great spot near the river. The restrooms were clean and the hookups were great. The camp host was friendly and there were several people at the camp, but it was very quiet. We will be back.
ScoutPros:
Cons:
ScoutThis is such a cute and non expensive spot. They allow RV's and Tent camping. It's a dry camp so no hook ups or showers. Fun hiking trails and animal friendly, with a river across from the camp ground.Each spot has a table and fire pit. Playground has only two swings and a 4 horse shoe pits. Only con is the highway is right by so you hear alot of the traffic during the day and a little through out the night. Over all we've loved it and the camp host is very friendly and keeps the property looking beautiful.
ScoutWe have camped at Carp for 30 years - brought our grandchildren this year - felt unsafe for the first time - and rangers blew us off causing us to have to camp next to an illegal homeless camper with a pitbull next to our 2 year old and 6 mth old - he screamed at all hours at his dog on a 20 ft leash - I heard say on his phone that his dog has mange - he was allowed to camp illegally in bicycle only camp site and next to the visitor center- without a tent and his worldly possessions spread out everywhere - when I complained ranger said he was sweet - I know bicycle campers rode by when they saw him in their site, pitbull and tarps and stuff spread all over site - I know others did not go to visitor center because of him - ranger told me he and his dog are “sweet” - we found him to be an intimidating freeloader - we left early
LegendGeneral: Small campground (38-site) with direct ocean access.
Site Quality: All sites have paved driveways but would not be suitable for large RVs. All but five sites are “partner” sites, so they would be better suited for friends or family camping together. Most people were tent camping in the grassy area behind the driveway pads.
Bath/Shower: Very basic all-gender units with a toilet and sink. Cold water only and NO soap, paper towels, air dryer, or light, so make sure you bring your own (especially at night). Did not use the shower, but from what I heard, people had difficulty getting it to work (as is usual with CA state parks, it looked like you needed tokens to operate).
Activities/Amenities: Mainly make your own fun. There is a small sandy beach. The Gaviota rail bridge runs directly overhead. We saw several Amtrak trains running, and they were not very loud (apparently, this bridge is the most photographed bridge for Amtrak, and I caught a few trains going over the bridge). There was also a small store, but it was not open at all on Saturday or Sunday in late April, so not sure when/if it would be open.
I loved the easy beach access but was disappointed in the lack of privacy with “partner” sites. In the end, this was not a huge issue, but it would have been more fun if we had been here with friends.
TravelerAnacapa loop is a good spot for tent camping. Trailers work, too. On busy summer weekends, the campgrounds can be loud because its so much fun. A lot of people come from inland where its hot. This loop has space, though. You will have enough room for 2-3 tents. It is easy walking distance to a playground, a big field, the beach, the little town. It will be super fun with bikes for the kids, beach toys, all day at the beach, or letting older kids do their own thing given the small town!
TravelerCarpinteria is a cute town with a great campground. To enjoy camping there, you do need to pick the right loop, right spot, or bring the right equipment. The loops vary. The good news is that even if you have a bad spot, you are easy walking distance to fantastic beaches and tide pools and a cute town. If you bring bikes, you can bike to everything and really explore. It's perfect for kids on bikes, as well. They go around the loop, or loop to loop with a bridge, or if older, they can go on the short trails or go into town on their own! It's really a great place, just plan on camping off-season or setting up alerts to grab canceled spots last minute.
ScoutI have stayed here in May June and July. The summer months have us switching spots or outright leaving for a day or two but the office is really accommodating, especially for longer term stays.
GuideWe were needing a place to stay for a night after a long day on the road. This place fit the need. Payment was done through a QR code, that was displayed as you enter the RV area, easy to do.
You are along a main road and a Navy Base so I can get loud at times but nothing major. A few people did stroll by in their cars two in bikes but never felt unsafe. There were always three RVs while I was there. Rules were followed.
Easy to get in and out.
Channel Islands National Park camping typically experiences cool temperatures year-round, with averages between 50-70°F and frequent morning fog. The isolation creates unique challenges for visitors at island campgrounds, as all supplies must be transported by boat and hiked to campsites. Wind conditions can be significant, particularly at higher elevations and exposed sites on Santa Rosa Island, where special wind shelters are provided at campsites.
Kayaking at Santa Cruz Island: The waters surrounding the island provide excellent kayaking opportunities through coves and sea caves. According to Jonathan G., "The Channel Islands offer some of the most remote camping, and it's easy to do. Plus, the weather is moderate, and you don't have to worry about wildlife much... be sure to explore the many trails on the island. There are green hills, secluded beaches, and stunning cliffs to check out."
Hiking to Lobo Canyon: This popular trail on Santa Rosa Island Campground offers dramatic views and unique terrain. One visitor mentioned, "Lobo Canyon which is a popular hike - and worth it - is way longer than you think because the distance listed is from the dock to the trail-head. It's another 2 miles to the beach from there." The hike features rare Torrey Pine trees and chances to spot island wildlife.
Beach exploration: Camping at Santa Cruz Campground in Carpinteria provides easy access to beaches without boat travel. One reviewer noted, "Close to town. Walkable, hike-able, bike-able, rideable via paths. No dogs on beach." This mainland option offers convenient beach access while planning your Channel Islands trip.
Isolation and solitude: Del Norte Backcountry Campground on Santa Cruz Island has only four campsites total, creating an exclusive experience. According to Tom M., "Hiked from Scorpion Harbor cross-island to Del Norte Camp, great way to see the island. Camped at site 1, had the most wind but also the best views of the ocean... About 4 miles from Prisoners Harbor ferry landing. Shared the campground with one other group."
Wildlife encounters: Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry offers frequent wildlife sightings, particularly the endemic island fox. Kathleen L. reports, "Saw lots of island foxes - so cute! Note that there are gear restrictions for the cruise (check the website). Also you have to PACK YOUR OWN WATER. And use the food storage boxes to protect your food from the foxes."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of Anacapa Island Campground provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. Michael K. simply described it as "Incredible Stars, a world away." The isolation from mainland light sources creates prime conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
No swimming at mainland lakes: Both Lake Casitas and Cachuma Lake prohibit swimming despite being popular camping alternatives. A Cachuma Lake visitor clarified, "Note, NO swimming in the lake because it's a source of drinking water. Get a waterfront spot for sure."
Transportation planning: Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground requires advance boat reservations and proper packing strategies. Deborah C. explains, "You must book your boat ride and camp site in advance and then check the day before to make sure weather permits the boat ride... You must not have water in your back pack, the propane must be out in a separate bin, and you are allowed only 60 lbs of 'stuff' each."
Weather preparedness: Santa Rosa Island experiences strong winds that require secure tent setup. Lindsay C. warns, "The wind is not a joke. When we came back from hiking more than one tent was blown over. Low profile, use your steaks and we even tied ours to the shelter to keep it stable."
Limited facilities: Most island campgrounds have restricted amenities. For Del Norte Backcountry, Kate W. notes, "The water tasted icky but after a 10 mile hike we didn't care. Take advantage and hike as far as you can- it's unreal! But bring a ton of water because you'll want it!"
Consider mainland alternatives: Lake Casitas Recreation Area offers family-friendly amenities not available on the islands. One visitor shared, "This campground was HUGE! There are several site with tenting, car camping, and hookups available... Camp store, cafe, and recreation area were all open." The recreation area includes a water park for cooling off during hot weather.
Use wagons for gear transport: When camping at the Channel Islands, bring collapsible wagons for carrying equipment from the dock to campsites. Katie O. from Santa Cruz Island advised, "The campgrounds have clean restrooms and plenty of fresh water so its perfect for families. The group sites are quite large and more secluded in the upper level."
Wildlife awareness for children: Teach children about proper food storage to prevent wildlife encounters. A Santa Cruz Island visitor warned, "Make sure to utilize this [fox box] for all food and anything that has a scent because the fox will eat through your tent and bags to get to the food. Also keep anything shiny out of sight for the crows."
Beach-front RV camping: Emma Wood State Beach offers RV sites directly on the beach, though with minimal facilities. Laura M. explained, "Even though you're literally paying $40 for a parking spot, this is one of our favorite campgrounds. You are parked right on the beach, which we love so much. At high tide the ocean comes right up to your doorstep."
Self-contained camping requirements: Island camping requires RVers to be fully self-contained. For mainland alternatives, Emma Wood State Beach has specific limitations according to Manuel P.: "This is for full RV Camping. Theres no Bathrooms, water, nada. There are large bin trash cans for trash."
Site selection considerations: When staying at El Capitán State Beach Campground, site selection is crucial. A visitor recommended, "Anything on the beach side is your best bet, otherwise you will get stuck by the train and highway, and that's no fun for anyone."
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the campground facilities and amenities available at Channel Islands National Park?
Channel Islands National Park offers primitive camping with limited facilities. Anacapa Island Campground provides pit toilets but no water, while Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground has potable water and pit toilets. All campgrounds have picnic tables, food storage boxes to protect from wildlife, and designated tent sites. There are no showers, electricity, or services on the islands. All trash must be packed out. Campfires are prohibited throughout the islands, but camp stoves are permitted. Cell service is extremely limited or non-existent. Each campground is located within hiking distance from the boat landing areas, with Santa Rosa and Santa Cruz offering the most developed facilities among the islands.
How do I make camping reservations at Channel Islands National Park?
Camping reservations for Channel Islands National Park must be made through recreation.gov. Santa Cruz Island Scorpion Canyon Campground and Santa Rosa Island Campground require advance reservations, which are available up to 6 months ahead. The park is only accessible by boat or plane, with Island Packers being the primary concessionaire providing transportation from Ventura Harbor. It's recommended to secure your transportation before finalizing campground reservations. During peak seasons (summer and weekends), both transportation and campsites fill quickly, so booking 3-6 months in advance is advisable. A camping permit is required for all overnight stays on the islands.
Are there dog-friendly camping options at Channel Islands National Park?
Dogs are not permitted at any Channel Islands National Park campgrounds. This prohibition extends to all trails, beaches, and developed areas within the park to protect the islands' fragile ecosystems and endemic wildlife. If traveling with pets, consider mainland alternatives like Carpinteria State Beach or Leo Carrillo State Park Campground, which allow leashed dogs in campground areas though restrictions apply for beach access. For those planning a Channel Islands trip, pet boarding services are available in Ventura and surrounding areas. The strict no-pet policy helps preserve the islands' unique environment and protect native wildlife from introduced diseases and disturbance.
Is glamping or alternative accommodation available at Channel Islands National Park?
Channel Islands National Park does not offer glamping or alternative accommodations - only primitive tent camping is available on the islands. For those seeking comfort-oriented options near the park, mainland alternatives include El Capitan Canyon which offers safari tents, yurts and cabins in a natural setting near Santa Barbara. Lake Casitas Recreation Area provides cabin rentals with modern amenities while still being close to Ventura Harbor, the departure point for island trips. For day trips to the islands, these mainland accommodations allow you to experience the Channel Islands while returning to more comfortable lodging each evening. The islands themselves remain dedicated to low-impact, traditional camping experiences only.
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