Catalina Island camping around Two Harbors centers primarily on beach and wilderness experiences at elevations from sea level to approximately 1,600 feet at higher inland sites. Located 22 miles offshore from Southern California, the island maintains mild temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 60-75°F, though campers should prepare for strong coastal winds, especially at exposed waterfront sites. Water conservation measures affect many campgrounds due to the island's limited freshwater resources.
What to Do
Snorkeling and water activities: Little Harbor Campground offers exceptional opportunities for exploring underwater landscapes. "The water is clean and great for snorkeling and the campsites all have amazing views of the cove," shares one visitor to Little Harbor Campground. The protected cove creates ideal conditions for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
Island exploration: Black Jack Campground serves as an excellent base for island exploration. "Located approximately 11.5 miles from Avalon on the Trans Catalina Trail (TCT). The campground is inland and well shaded with larger trees. Very remote and quiet feeling," notes a visitor to Black Jack Campground. The inland location provides a different perspective of the island's diverse ecosystem.
Beach camping: For authentic beach camping, Parsons Landing offers a unique experience. "A ferry ride and 7 mile hike are worth it to get to this gorgeous beach. Don't forget your snorkel! The water is so clear and full of things to see," recommends a camper who stayed at Parsons Landing Campground. Sites are set directly on the sand with waves crashing nearby.
What Campers Like
Diverse camping terrain: Two Harbors offers varied landscapes from beach to mountain settings. "We visited Two Harbors in late April and stayed in the campground for 1 night. The views from our site were stunning. Stargazing was prime as well since there are virtually no lights in Two Harbors," reports a visitor to Two Harbors Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Island wildlife adds to the camping experience. "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 a Hermit Gulch camper. Foxes, birds, and marine life are commonly spotted across the island's camping areas.
Secluded beach access: Little Harbor provides semi-private beach access away from crowds. "Such a beautiful campground, and if you're lucky enough (like we were) you may get the whole place to yourself. The beach is beautiful, and there's nothing like the sunsets here," explains a visitor to Little Harbor. The western side of the island often sees fewer visitors than areas near Avalon.
What You Should Know
Limited resources: Advance planning is essential when camping near Two Harbors. "This is the final campground on the Trans Catalina Trail and one of my favorites. Reservations are required and you'll need to purchase water and firewood in a locker since it is walk in only and trust me you won't want to try and carry it," advises a visitor about Parsons Landing.
Wildlife precautions: Secure food storage is necessary due to persistent wildlife. "The fox are no joke and aren't afraid to get close. 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," explains a Hermit Gulch Campground visitor.
Transportation planning: Boat schedules impact arrival and departure flexibility. "We 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)... Once you leave Avalon, you are at the mercy of the bus schedules in order to get back to a store," notes a camper from Little Harbor.
Tips for Camping with Families
Accessible options: Hermit Gulch provides family-friendly amenities close to town. "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," suggests a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy the abundant wildlife. "In one day we saw deer, quail, woodpeckers and the famous Catalina fox. This campsite is positively a must camp if you are on Catalina Island," shares a family who stayed at Hermit Gulch Campground.
Water activities for kids: Beaches with protected swimming areas work best for families. "The beach in narrowish and rocky - a lot of the sites have rock walls built up to protect the fire pit from wind," explains a visitor to Newport Dunes RV Resort, noting the importance of selecting sites with natural wind protection for comfort when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: RV camping on Catalina is extremely limited due to transportation constraints. "The spots are groomed and clean when you come in. Great Long Beach location, a nice bike ride along the beach to Naples and the Queen Mary," notes a visitor to Golden Shore RV Resort on the mainland, which serves as a staging area for island visits.
Ferry logistics: RVers typically need to leave vehicles on the mainland. "Depending on the season, the lot can be packed. It is accommodating for some different size vehicles and has direct beach access and some amenities such as fire pits on the beach," explains a visitor to Dockweiler Beach RV Park, another mainland option for those planning day trips to Catalina.
Island transportation: Golf carts and shuttles provide transportation once on the island. "We got a foldable wagon to lug all our stuff to our site. Make sure you have a strong man. Lol walking the hills was enough for me I couldn't imagine pulling a wagon full of gear as well," advises a Two Harbors camper about moving equipment from ferry landings to campsites.
