Camping at Channel Islands
California's Galapagos—five islands with endemic species, sea caves, and pristine waters.
Featured Campgrounds
Top-rated campgrounds inside Channel Islands National Park
Santa Cruz Scorpion is the most popular and accessible camping option with nearly 1,000 reviews and excellent ratings, making it perfect for first-time Channel Islands campers. It offers great hiking and swimming opportunities on the most visited island in the park.
Santa Rosa Island provides a excellent balance of activities including hiking, fishing, and swimming with strong ratings and substantial review count. It offers a more remote island experience while still being well-established for campers.
Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry offers adventurous campers a true wilderness experience with backcountry camping closest to the mainland. Despite fewer activities, it provides an authentic Channel Islands camping experience for those seeking solitude.
Campgrounds Near Channel Islands National Park
Great options within 90 minutes of the park entrance
Campground Locations
Showing top 20 campgrounds near Channel Islands National Park
About This Destination
Channel Islands camping offers one of California's most unique wilderness experiences, combining pristine backcountry camping with extraordinary marine environments just off the Southern California coast. This remote archipelago of five islands provides campers with unparalleled access to endemic wildlife, kelp forest snorkeling, and dramatic sea caves - all within sight of the mainland yet feeling worlds away from urban life.
Best Time
The best months for Channel Islands camping are May, June, September, and October when weather conditions are most stable and ferry services run reliably. Spring (March-May) offers wildflower displays and active wildlife, while fall (September-November) typically provides the calmest seas and warmest ocean temperatures.
Destination Highlights
- 6+ campgrounds within 50 miles
- Located in California
- Options for every camping style
Plan Your Trips
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Book Channel Islands camping reservations and ferry transportation simultaneously, as both fill quickly during peak seasons - aim for 2-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
- 2Bring a sturdy, wind-resistant tent and extra stakes, as most campsites are exposed to ocean breezes.
- 3Pack significantly more water than typical mainland camping requires (1-2 liters per person per day minimum), since potable water availability varies by island and season.
- 4Choose midweek trips whenever possible for better availability and fewer crowds.
Explore Channel Islands National Park by Activity
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Channel Islands National Park Campgrounds Book Fast
The best campgrounds near Channel Islands National Park book up quickly, especially during peak season. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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