How much does camping cost at Santa Barbara Island?

Camping fees at Santa Barbara Island range from $15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Santa Barbara Island first-come first-served or reservation?

Santa Barbara Island accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Santa Barbara Island before I book?

Yes! Santa Barbara Island has 12 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

Are there showers at Santa Barbara Island?

Santa Barbara Island does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Santa Barbara Island?

Fire policies at Santa Barbara Island: No campfires or charcoal fires. Only enclosed gas camp stoves are allowed.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Santa Barbara Island have?

Santa Barbara Island has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Santa Barbara Island?

Pets are not allowed at Santa Barbara Island. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Santa Barbara Island?

Santa Barbara Island offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Santa Barbara Island?

Popular activities at Santa Barbara Island include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Santa Barbara Island

1 review

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Top 2% in CAWinter

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

635 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

635 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Santa Barbara Island

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805-658-5730

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Santa Barbara Island

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Santa Barbara Island

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Nearby places

Ventura, CA (approx. 38 miles by boat)

Weather at Santa Barbara Island

Current alerts(15)

Avoid contact with deer mice. Hantavirus has been found in island deer mice. For more information visit: https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/hantavirus.htm .
Camping reservations are required prior to arriving on the island. There are NO walk-ups at this facility.
Hike In Distance to Site: 1/4 mile. Visitors must carry all their own gear.
Kayakers: ocean conditions can rapidly change, requiring expert abilities. Ocean kayaking is an inherently dangerous activity. Always check weather and do not kayak beyond your experience level.

Best Time to Camp at Santa Barbara Island

Best season: winter. Winter offers the most reliable combination of mild, dry weather and clear ocean visibility—air temperatures commonly hover in the mid-50s (about 56–58°F) and precipitation is minimal, making long days on the cliffs pleasant. Calm winter days bring excellent wildlife viewing (sea lions, seals and offshore whale migrations), rewarding hikes up to Signal Peak, and steady fishing and boating when landings are possible. Because the island is remote with limited visitor capacity, winter still feels w Peak months: January, February, December, October

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 2% in CA

Officially best season: mild temps (~56–58°F) and most reliable clear ocean visibility.

Planning Tips

About Santa Barbara Island

Santa Barbara Island sits 38 miles off Ventura in Channel Islands National Park, the smallest and most remote of the park's five islands. The National Park Service maintains a handful of primitive campsites on this low-elevation outcrop, where vault toilets and picnic tables are the only infrastructure. Visitors come for wildlife viewing—sea lions, seals, and migrating whales—plus hiking to Signal Peak, fishing, and snorkeling in clear winter waters.

Santa Barbara Island Campground offers primitive, tent-only camping. RVs, group sites, and glamping options are not available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter offers the most reliable combination of mild, dry weather and clear ocean visibility—air temperatures commonly hover in the mid-50s (about 56–58°F) and precipitation is minimal, making long days on the cliffs pleasant. Calm winter days bring excellent wildlife viewing (sea lions, seals and offshore whale migrations), rewarding hikes up to Signal Peak, and steady fishing and boating when landings are possible. Because the island is remote with limited visitor capacity, winter still feels w Peak months: January, February, December, October

Elevation635 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryTwin peaks rise above the island's grassy mesas, with Signal Peak topping out at 635 feet. Sheer cliffs drop to rocky shores where sea lions bark and seals haul out on wave-battered rocks. Native vegetation spreads across the restored landscape after years of removing invasive species. The ancient volcanic formations create dramatic coastal vistas at every turn. Trails lead to hidden coves and overlooks where the Pacific extends unbroken to the horizon.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodgings or accommodations are available. Only tent camping is permitted on the island.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is seven consecutive nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 4 persons per site

Groups

Group camping is not supported
campsites are individual, accommodating up to four people each.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited due to the rugged nature of the island. The campground is only accessible by boat, followed by a steep quarter-mile climb with a 200-foot elevation gain.

Site SizeCampsites are described as "primitive." Each site accommodates up to four people, but specific dimensions are not provided.

PrivacyCampsites are closely spaced, and privacy is minimal due to the small size of the campground.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites based on proximity to amenities like pit toilets and food storage lockers.

Need help booking Santa Barbara Island?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Primitive camping. Tent camping only, no electricity/water/sewer site hook-ups at this campground. Bring low profile tents and extra food for weather delays. No shelter or shade. Picnic table, food storage box, vault toilet provided. Must bring your own water. No stores or services.

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Santa Barbara Island Campground enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and water-based activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. The island's pristine environment and rugged cliffs offer unique opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Instead, a vault toilet is provided for campers.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are included with each campsite to protect against wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Santa Barbara Island

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

0.0

1 reviews

Limited Reviews

Santa Barbara Island has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are not available for Santa Barbara Island Campground. However, the official descriptions highlight the remote and primitive nature of the camping experience.

Review Summaries

Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

Official sources emphasize the breathtaking coastal views, unique wildlife viewing opportunities, and the pristine natural environment.

Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water, services, and the steep hike to the campground may deter some visitors. "Campers must be fully self-sufficient."

Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews are available for specific campsites.

Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and low-profile tents, and prepare for weather-related delays. "Enclosed gas stoves are the only cooking method allowed."

Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No user reviews are available, but official sources note that trail access may be restricted from January through August due to pelican nesting.

Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Primitive camping at its finest with unmatched coastal views." "Prepare for a steep hike and pack accordingly."

Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews from users with disabilities are available, but the rugged terrain and steep climb present significant challenges.

Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed on the island, and no user reviews address pet accommodations.

Based on 1 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Santa Barbara Island

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $15.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

805-658-5730

Go if

You want true island solitude, exceptional wildlife viewing, and are prepared for rugged, self-sufficient camping.

Skip if

You need potable water, cell service, or easy access—this island requires a boat charter and serious planning.

Campgrounds you may also like

Frequently Visited

Santa Rosa Island Backcountry Beach Camping

4.3

(58)

Santa Rosa Island Backcountry Beach Camping

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001, USA

Santa Rosa Island Backcountry Beach Camping sits on a remote Channel Islands National Park island accessible only by boat or plane from Ventura. The National Park Service operates this primitive beach camping area where visitors hike, fish, swim, and watch island foxes and elephant seals along miles of undeveloped coastline. Fall brings calm seas and stable weather for kayaking and exploring the island's rugged terrain.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Santa Rosa Island sits eight miles off the Ventura coast in Channel Islands National Park, accessible only by boat or plane. This National Park Service campground offers primitive tent sites with flush toilets, potable water, and wind shelters across rolling grasslands and coastal bluffs. Campers hike to white-sand beaches, watch for endemic island foxes, and explore tide pools between spring wildflower blooms.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

San Miguel Island sits eight miles off the Ventura coast in Channel Islands National Park, accessible only by boat and managed by the National Park Service. The primitive campground offers fewer than ten walk-in sites on a windswept plateau where island foxes roam and pinnipeds haul out on the beaches below. Visitors hike ranger-led trails through spring wildflower blooms and scan dark skies for the Milky Way after sunset.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Santa Cruz Scorpion sits on Channel Islands National Park's largest island, accessible only by boat from Ventura. The National Park Service operates this mid-sized campground in coastal foothills, where campers hike in with gear to reach primitive and group sites. Visitors come for island scrub-jay sightings, shoreline kayaking, and spring wildflower displays, with island foxes often wandering through camp.

$15.00 - $40.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.5

(196)

Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry sits on Santa Cruz Island within Channel Islands National Park, accessible only by boat from Ventura and a strenuous hike inland. This National Park Service primitive campground offers vault toilets and picnic tables amid oak woodlands with ocean views, where island foxes roam and winter brings peak whale migration and seabird activity. Sites are close to the trail with limited privacy, and strong coastal winds are common.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA

Anacapa Island sits 11 miles off the coast of Ventura in Channel Islands National Park, accessible only by boat. The National Park Service operates a handful of primitive campsites on the island's clifftop plateau, where visitors hike, fish, swim, and watch seabirds and marine mammals in one of California's most remote settings. Expect vault toilets, picnic tables, and little else beyond wind, wildlife, and panoramic ocean views.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Frequently Visited

4.4

(41)

Deer Canyon Campground

8471 North Coast Highway Laguna Beach CA 92651

Deer Canyon Campground sits at 699 feet on a ridgeline above the Pacific, accessible only by a steep 3-mile hike. The 32 primitive tent sites accommodate up to four people each and cost $25-$33.25 per night. Day hikers and mountain bikers pass through frequently, and squatters sometimes occupy reserved sites despite the strenuous access.

$25.00 - $33.25 / night

5200 S. Pacific Coast Hwy, San Clemente, CA, 92672

Bluff Campground sits on sandstone cliffs above the Pacific at San Onofre State Beach, 15 sites within earshot of both crashing waves and Highway 5. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. The ocean views are genuine, but so is the freeway noise and the tight spacing between neighbors. Sites run $45/night and fill quickly.

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.7

(29)

Point Mugu-La Jolla Walk-In Campground

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Point Mugu-la Jolla Walk-in Campground sits along the Pacific Coast Highway where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the ocean. Ten walk-in tent sites ($6-$45/night) put you within earshot of waves and a short walk from both beach and hillside trails. Sites are spacious enough for up to four cars, but privacy is limited. You'll hear your neighbors.

$6.00 - $45.00 / night

9000 W. Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

Sycamore Campground sits in a coastal canyon at Point Mugu State Park, where sycamores and oaks fill the valley floor just across Highway 1 from the beach. The 56 sites run $45/night and fill quickly in summer. An underpass connects camp to the ocean, putting surf and sand less than a 10-minute walk from your tent.

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Less Visited

4.2

(23)

Tent Group Campground

225 Avenida Calafia, San Clemente, CA 92672

Tent Group Campground sits on coastal bluffs 108 feet above the Pacific Ocean in San Clemente State Beach. The campground offers 68 tent and group sites with full amenities including showers, flush toilets, and fire rings. It's popular with families for beach access and Junior Rangers programs, though reviewers consistently mention ants and nighttime skunks as tradeoffs.

$0.00 - $10.00 / night

3505 Paradise Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93105

Sage Hill is a small, premium-priced campground in the Los Padres National Forest foothills near Santa Barbara, operated by PMC Parks during peak season. The site offers flush toilets, potable water, and access to hiking, fishing, and swimming. Reviewers praise clean facilities, attentive hosts, and spacious group sites, though limited shade and insects are common complaints.

10 campsites

Reservable

137.104 km

$150.00 - $152.00 / night

Campgrounds

Channel Islands National Park

Santa Barbara Island

About Channel Islands National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Santa Barbara Island, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Channel Islands National Park encompasses five remarkable islands and their ocean environment, preserving and protecting a wealth of natural and cultural resources. Isolation over thousands of years has created unique animals, plants, and archeological resources found nowhere else on Earth and helped preserve a place where visitors can experience coastal southern California as it once was.

Directions

While the mainland visitor center in Ventura is readily accessible by car or public transportation, the islands are only accessible by park concessionaire boats and planes or private boat. Advanced planning is highly recommended.