Catalina Island tent camping remains the primary option for campers near Lomita, California, with sites requiring ferry transport and backcountry hiking. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 200-1,600 feet above sea level and experience coastal Mediterranean climate patterns. Marine layers frequently blanket the island during summer mornings, burning off by midday to reveal sunny conditions with temperatures ranging from 55-75°F year-round.
What to do
Water activities at Two Harbors: The beachfront location provides opportunities for kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. "The water in the harbor is super clear. We kayaked around the area and loved it," notes one camper about Two Harbors. The rental office offers diving equipment, kayaks, and other water gear.
Wildlife spotting from Little Harbor: Buffalo herds roam the island and often pass near campgrounds. "Careful with all the buffalo poop," warns a visitor to Little Harbor Campground. Smaller wildlife includes island fox, which frequently visit campsites at dusk. "Foxes are common on this campground as they look for any food, campers may leave behind," mentions a Black Jack camper.
Stargazing on remote beaches: Light pollution is minimal on Catalina's undeveloped coasts. "Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors," shares a Two Harbors Campground visitor. The western beaches offer particularly dark skies, with visible Milky Way on clear nights.
What campers like
Beach proximity at Parsons Landing: Sites sit directly on sandy beaches with waves crashing nearby. "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," explains a visitor to Parsons Landing Campground. The campground features rock walls as windbreaks and lockers for pre-purchased supplies.
Short access trail at Millard: For mainland options closer than Topanga, this campground requires minimal hiking. "The parking lot is just behind the corner out of view," writes a Millard Trail Campground reviewer. Despite the short distance, campers enjoy a backcountry feel with access to a seasonal stream and waterfall trail.
Isolation on western beaches: The remote western shores offer solitude not found in Avalon. "If you're lucky enough (like we were) you may get the whole place to yourself," reports a Little Harbor camper. The beaches remain uncrowded even during peak summer periods, particularly on weekdays.
What you should know
Required hiking gear: For Catalina backcountry sites, proper equipment is essential. "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," shares a Two Harbors camper who recommends: "We got a foldable wagon to lug all our stuff to our site. Make sure you have a strong man."
Wildlife precautions: Food storage protocols are strictly enforced. "Utilize the bear boxes even though there aren't any bears. The birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second," warns a Black Jack Campground visitor.
Firewood logistics: Most remote sites require planning for campfires. "You can pay to get firewood delivered to your site no extra charge. It's ten bucks a bundle. Two bundles lasted about 4 hours," notes a Two Harbors camper. Some mainland sites prohibit fires completely.
Tips for camping with families
Easy mainland option: For families wanting to avoid ferry logistics, consider Mount Lowe. "It was eerily quiet at night. We were the only ones there and can hear our own heartbeats laying there at night," describes a Mount Lowe Trail Campground visitor. The site has new facilities and access to nearby hiking trails.
Beginner-friendly Catalina site: Hermit Gulch offers structured camping with amenities. "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," explains a camper. A shuttle runs regularly between the campground and town.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy frequent animal encounters on Catalina. "At night we had deer walking directly through our site as we were eating dinner (seriously on a few feet away). They didn't bother anyone and were really cool to watch," reports a Two Harbors visitor.
Tips from RVers
Beach campground access: While Catalina doesn't accommodate RVs, mainland options exist at Doheny State Beach. "The location is obviously great but the sites are on top of each other. No privacy and are definitely built for RVs and Trailers," notes a Doheny State Beach Campground visitor about the mainland's closest RV-accessible beach camping.
Dump station logistics: Plan ahead for water and waste services. "Water Fill for RV: At this park they have both. Hand carrying potable water is available by bathrooms. And RV tank filling also available at the same location of dump site only a few feet away as you drive out," details a Doheny camper regarding the facilities.
Flood-prone sites: Be cautious about site selection during rainy periods. "Avoid these spots in case of rain: 12-17, 75-45 beach side. Odd numbers only," advises an RVer who camped at Doheny after winter storms.
