No open fires. Gas camp stoves only. Bring sufficient fuel for all cooking and any heating needs.

Santa Cruz Del Norte - 4 Primitive Sites

Q: What if I need water?

No potable water on-site. You must bring all drinking and cooking water for your entire stay. Estimate 2-3 gallons per person per day minimum.

Q: Can I bring my RV or large vehicle?

No vehicles of any kind. Boat access only; no roads reach the campground. This is primitive backcountry camping.

Q: Do I need a reservation?

Yes, reservations are required. Book through Recreation.gov (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232499) or call (877) 444-6777.

Q: What's included at each campsite?

Each site has a picnic table, food storage box, and pit-style vault toilet. You provide tent, water, fuel, food, and all other gear.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for first-timers?

Self-sufficiency: no water, no showers, no stores, and no help nearby if something goes wrong. This is genuine wilderness camping—bring experience and proper gear.

Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground

Sites

RV Max Length

Not permitted (boat access only)

Hookups

Dry camping only—no water, electric, or sewer hookups

Overview

About This Campground

Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is a remote, primitive camping experience accessible only by boat. The hike to the four campsites takes 3.5 miles from Prisoners Harbor. Each site includes a picnic table, food storage box, and vault toilet—no water or showers. This is genuine backcountry camping for self-sufficient outdoors people.

Highlights

Book If

✅ BOOK IF: Experienced backpackers seeking remote, primitive island camping with no distractions. Self-sufficient outdoors people comfortable carrying water and cooking on gas stove. ❌ SKIP IF: First-time campers, families with young kids, RV/car campers, or anyone needing showers or potable water on-site.

Site Types

Tent-only

Scenic Views

Ocean views and Channel Islands coastal scenery

Nearby Attractions

Channel Islands coastal marine resources, island ecology, historic ranch sites on other islands

Family Friendly

Not recommended for young children or families without extensive backpacking experience. Lack of water, primitive facilities, and 3.5-mile hike make this unsuitable for casual camping.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) for calmer seas and moderate weather; avoid winter storms and summer fog

Camping Tips

Bring 100% of your water—no source on-island
Gas stove is your only cooking option; bring sufficient fuel
Tent stakes and guy-lines critical for island winds
Layered clothing; island weather shifts rapidly
Pack out everything you bring in (including toilet paper)
Check boat schedules before committing to dates
Download offline maps; no cell service
Food storage box prevents scavenging by gulls and foxes

RV Driver Intel

The Setup

After boat arrival at Prisoners Harbor, hike 3.5 miles to site. Expect rocky terrain and exposure. Pack is heaviest load—carry water, fuel, food for entire stay. Upon arrival, set tent on flattest ground, secure stakes firmly against wind, position food box nearby. Vault toilet downwind from camp. Check ground for rocks before placing tent pad.

The Vibe

True backcountry wilderness experience—not a developed campground. No services, no crowds, minimal amenities. Isolated island setting with self-sufficient camping culture. Wind and weather are constant companions. Solitude is the main amenity.

Bath & Laundry

No showers or laundry facilities. Primitive island camping means creek/saltwater bathing or sponge baths. Plan personal hygiene accordingly.

What Campers Say

Campers praise this site for its remote, genuine backcountry experience. Primary concerns: no water (must bring all), isolation requires self-sufficiency, and weather-dependent boat access can delay/cancel trips. Popular with experienced backpackers seeking solitude.

Details

Campsite Information

Total Sites: 4

RV Max Length: Not permitted (boat access only)

Hookups: Dry camping only—no water, electric, or sewer hookups

Site Types

Tent-only

Each Site Includes

Picnic table
Food storage box
Pit-style vault toilet

Activities

Hiking (3.5-mile trail access), camping, wildlife observation

Amenities & Facilities

Campground Amenities

Restrooms: Vault toilets (pit-style outhouses)
Water: No potable water on-site. Bring sufficient water or treatment system.
Trash: No trash collection. Pack out all trash.

Facilities

RV Dump Station: No dump station
Camp Store: No camp store. Bring all supplies from mainland.
Firewood: No firewood sales or gathering. No open fires allowed (gas stoves only).
Amphitheater: No

Utilities

Restrooms: Vault toilets (pit-style outhouses)

Policies & Rules

Reservations

Recreation.gov and phone (877) 444-6777 (Booking: Advanced reservations required)

Pet Policy

No Pets Allowed

FAQs

How do I get to the campground?

Boat access only from Ventura (via Prisoners Harbor or Scorpion Anchorage), then 3.5-mile hike to the campground. Check www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/island-transportation.htm for approved boat operators.

What if I need water?

Are fires allowed?

Can I bring my RV or large vehicle?

Do I need a reservation?

What's included at each campsite?

What's the biggest challenge for first-timers?

📖 National Park Service — Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground (official page) (checked 2026-07-12) 📖 National Park Service — Channel Islands National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📖 Climate data: Santa Barbara 11 W, Ca Us, 20 ft (NOAA 1991-2020 normals, station USW00053152) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

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