Channel Islands National Park

Channel Islands National Park
Two-Night Backcountry Camping Guide
California

Overview

Channel Islands National Park is one of the most logistically demanding national parks in the United States despite its proximity to Los Angeles. The challenge is not terrain or elevation but isolation, weather dependency, and self-sufficiency. Once you are dropped on an island, there are no services, no cell reception, no fresh water, and no quick exit.

A successful two-night trip requires deliberate planning, conservative packing decisions, and a clear understanding of island-specific rules and conditions.

Choosing the Right Island

For a first or standard two-night trip, Santa Cruz Island is the most practical choice. It offers established campgrounds, maintained trail systems, and reliable ferry access.

Scorpion Canyon Campground on the eastern side of Santa Cruz Island is the most common and beginner-friendly option. It provides proximity to the landing beach, access to multiple day hikes, and protection from wind relative to other sites.

Del Norte Campground on Santa Cruz Island is more remote and exposed and is better suited for experienced backpackers willing to carry heavier water loads and manage wind exposure.

Other islands such as Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara are significantly more exposed, wind-driven, and logistically complex. They are not recommended for a first two-night visit.

Permits and Reservations

Camping requires a reservation through Recreation.gov. Reservations are mandatory and must be secured in advance, especially during spring and summer.

Ferry transportation is operated exclusively by Island Packers. A round-trip ferry ticket is required, and space is limited. You must align your camping reservation with ferry availability.

Ranger check-in is required upon arrival. Rangers will verify permits, conduct brief orientations, and answer last-minute questions.

There are no walk-up camping options.

Ferry Logistics and Packing Constraints

Ferry rides range from one to three hours depending on island and sea conditions. Seasickness is common. Medication should be taken before boarding.

All gear must be carried off the boat by hand. There are no carts, no assistance, and no storage. Pack weight matters.

Gear must be secured. High winds and rough seas can soak unsecured packs during loading and unloading.

Water Strategy

There is no potable water anywhere in Channel Islands National Park.

For a two-night trip, plan for a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day. This includes drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene.

In warmer months or with long hikes planned, increase to one and a half gallons per day.

Water weight is the single biggest factor in pack weight. Expect to carry six to nine liters minimum for two nights.

Water caches are not permitted unless explicitly authorized by park staff.

Food Planning

All food must be packed in and packed out.

Rodents and island foxes are extremely aggressive. Food storage is critical.

Hard-sided containers or odor-resistant bags are strongly recommended. Campgrounds provide metal fox boxes, but food must still be secured during the day and while hiking.

Plan calorie-dense, low-prep meals. Fuel efficiency matters because wind can make cooking difficult.

No food scraps are allowed to be buried or discarded.

Camp Setup and Conditions

Campsites are exposed. Wind is the dominant environmental factor on the islands, not temperature.

Low-profile tents with strong staking systems are essential. Sand and rocky soil make staking difficult. Bring extra cordage and know how to anchor with rocks.

Expect fog, condensation, and damp conditions even in warm seasons.

Fires are prohibited. Camp stoves only.

Day Hiking and Activities

Santa Cruz Island offers coastal cliffs, interior canyons, and panoramic ocean views.

Popular hikes include Cavern Point, Potato Harbor, and the Scorpion Canyon interior trails.

Kayaking is popular but requires advance outfitter reservations and favorable sea conditions. Bringing your own kayak is not practical for most visitors.

Swimming is possible but water temperatures are cold year-round.

Wildlife Awareness

Island foxes are fearless and intelligent. They will unzip packs, chew through fabric, and steal food.

Seabirds nest along cliffs and trails. Stay on designated paths to avoid disturbing wildlife.

There are no snakes or large predators.

Safety and Emergency Planning

There is no cell service.

Carry a satellite communicator or personal locator beacon.

The weather can cancel ferries with little notice. Always pack an extra day's worth of food and water in case your departure is delayed.

Injuries become serious quickly due to isolation. Conservative decision-making is essential.

Leave a detailed itinerary with someone on the mainland.

Leave No Trace

Everything you bring must leave with you.

Human waste disposal methods depend on campground facilities. Some sites require pack-out systems.

Do not disturb natural features or remove anything from the island.