How to Go Camping at Channel Islands National Park

Want to experience coastal Southern California from a new angle? Channel Islands National Park's five islands (Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel and Santa Barbara) developed in isolation over thousands of years, preserving a wealth of unique animals, plants and archeological resources. Read on for more information on camping in this natural wonder.

Instructions

1. Arrange for transportation to the island you choose for camping. Try Island Packers at [phone] or Truth Aquatics at [phone]. Camping is permitted on all five islands at Channel Islands National Park in the managed campgrounds.

2. Obtain a free camping permit by calling [phone]. If you decide to kayak or take your own boat to the island, you still must get a camping permit.

3. Make camping reservations by calling (800) 365-CAMP. You may make reservations up to three months in advance. When making your reservations, have the camping dates, number in your party and transportation information available.

4. Do not plan any campfires; they are not permitted. You may, however, use a camp stove or a fire ring on Scorpion Bay in the winter.

5. Plan to take all of your trash with you.

Tips & Warnings

• Each campground has a pit toilet and picnic tables.

• The only two islands with available water are Santa Rosa and East Santa Cruz.

• Del Norte offers a backcountry camping site. The hike into the camp is about 3 miles. Four groups can camp at this location, which has pit toilets and a picnic table.