Anacapa Island Campground
The Quick Take
Anacapa Island Campground is not so much a campground as it is a test of commitment. You arrive by boat, haul everything up 157 metal stairs carved into a sea cliff, and set up on a windswept plateau with no water, no shade, and exactly seven sites. What you get in return is one of the most dramatic camping experiences in any national park -- 360-degree ocean views, migrating whales breaching offshore, and a night sky unspoiled by mainland light pollution. The trade-off is total self-sufficiency: every drop of water, every meal, and every piece of trash goes with you. If you visit during spring and summer, you will share the island with thousands of nesting western gulls, which means guano, noise, and an unforgettable smell. This is a campground for experienced backpackers who want a genuine island wilderness experience without the multi-day commitment of Santa Cruz or Santa Rosa.
Booking
Reserve Your Campsite
All 7 sites are reservable.
Book at Channel Islands LodgesWhat You Get
Sites & Setup
RV Information
RVs allowed. No electrical hookups.
Accessibility
Due to Anacapa Island's isolation, steep cliffs, and boat transportation requirements, the Anacapa Island Campground is not accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility. No Roads
Pro Tips
Book through recreation.gov the moment your dates open -- with only seven sites and boat departures limited to a few days per week, Anacapa fills months in advance for spring and fall weekends. Midweek trips in late fall and winter are your best bet for last-minute availability.
The crossing from Ventura takes about an hour on Island Packers, but swells can be rough. Take seasickness medication at least an hour before departure, and pack your gear in dry bags -- you may need to transfer from boat to skiff to a metal ladder depending on conditions at the landing cove.
Bring at minimum one gallon of water per person per day, plus extra for cooking. There is zero potable water on the island. A collapsible water container with a spigot makes camp life much easier, and freeze-dried meals minimize both water use and pack weight for that stair climb.
Photos
Tim Hauf, timhaufphotography.comGetting There
Directions
Anacapa Island Campground is only accessible by boat. Visit our island transportation webpage for more information: http://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/island-transportation.htm The hike to the campground is 157 stairs and .5 miles from the boat landing.
Get directions
