Look no further for some of the best camping in Channel Islands National Park, plus tips to enjoy your stay from The Dyrt Ranger team the Switchback Kids.
Most Popular Campgrounds in Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park is a five-island chain off the Southern California coast that includes San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa and tiny Santa Barbara. The islands are home to 145 plant and animal species found nowhere else in the world, earning them the nickname of ‘California’s Galapagos’. Camping in this off-the-beaten-path national park should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Here are three campgrounds that will help you get up close and personal to this end-of-the-world landscape.
1. Santa Cruz Scorpion, CA
Photo from The Dyrt user Kali C.
Guaranteeing fantastic ocean views and relaxing beach time, Scorpion is the most family-friendly campsite on Santa Cruz island. Offering 25 campsites and 6 group sites, Scorpion is a short hike from the pier and is sheltered from harsh ocean winds. Santa Cruz is one of the few Channel Islands to have running water, but you’ll still have to bring all the other supplies you’ll need during your stay.
Reviews & Photos2. Santa Rosa Island, CA
Photo from The Dyrt user Joe K.
Santa Rosa Island is the second largest island of the California Channel Islands and is part of the Channel Islands National Park. If you’re more of a backcountry camper, then this is the spot for you. Back country beach camping is available for part of the year and it’s one pier can be found on the north part of the island. Santa Rosa is also home to 100 bird and three land mammal species, including the endemic island fox.
Reviews & Photos3. Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry, CA
Photo from The Dyrt user Kathleen L.
Del Norte Backcountry Campground is for the more seasoned backpacker, as entry requires a strenuous three to four-mile uphill hike. When you get there though, you’re free to enjoy a remote backpacking experience and breathtaking scenery. The campsite itself is primitive with no amenities but makes up for it by being in a shaded oak grove with scenic views of the islands pristine coastline.
Review & PhotosExplore the Channel Islands
Channel Islands National Park offers hiking, kayaking, scuba diving, camping and whale-watching, all amid a raw landscape that is rich in unique flora and fauna. Exploring this national park will give you a delightful break from the congestion and clamor of urban life.
The Dyrt’s Ranger duo the Switchback Kids, who spent a year visiting all 59 National Parks, have put together this incredible video to document their firsthand experience in the Channel Islands with the hopes of improving the visit of others.
Switchback Kids Ranger Tip: Death Valley can be a crowded park at times, so use the early morning and late evening times to your advantage. You’ll also beat the heat this way.
Win gear for camping the Channel Islands
When you review campsites across the US on The Dyrt, you get the chance to win outdoor gear. In California, you have the chance to win a $100 gift card from Boost Oxygen, a $75 gift card from TredAgain, and an MH2 Headlamp from Ledlenser. Check out the contest leaderboard, review your camping experience, earn points for your review, and you could win prizes!
Related Campgrounds:
- Carpinteria Camping, Carpinteria, CA
- Hermit Gulch Campground, Avalon, Catalina Island, CA
- Big Bear Lake Campground, Big Bear Lake, CA
- El Capitan Beach Camping, Capitan, CA
