Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground, Channel Islands National Park, CA

Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground is part of Channel Islands National Park in California (about 28 miles from Santa Barbara, CA) with an elevation of 700 feet. There are a total of 4 campsites which are all tent-only sites. The campground is open all year. All sites are currently reservable. Reservations can be booked up to 6 months in advance. Prices start at $15.00 per night. Activities include hiking trails.

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Campsite Reviews (85)

4.8 out of 5

5 star		80%
4 star		14%
3 star		5%
2 star		0%
1 star		0%

@RebeccaK768006 · Camped on Feb 24, 2025 at Campsite #1

Del Norte Campground is a fantastic spot for those looking for a remote and peaceful backcountry experience on Santa Cruz Island. The 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor is moderately challenging, with some elevation gain, but the views along the way make it absolutely worth it.I stayed at Campsite #1, which had the best views but was also the most exposed. Despite that, I did fine and would probably choose that site again. The campground itself is small and quiet, offering four campsites with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding hills. Since it's one of the few backcountry campgrounds in Channel Islands National Park, it feels much more secluded than Scorpion Ranch. The sites are well-spaced, and the area is well-maintained, though theres no water availableso be sure to pack plenty.Water was something I was nervous about since I had planned on hiking to Scorpion Ranch, so I packed six liters, which turned out to be more than enough for me. The ranger also dropped off two gallons of emergency water in the fox box early in the afternoon, which was a good backup but not something to rely on.One of the highlights is watching the sunset from the nearby ridge. The islands natural beauty, combined with the sense of solitude, makes this an incredible experience. That said, be prepared for strong winds at night, and as with any coastal camping, be mindful of the weather conditions.If youre looking for a true backcountry camping adventure in the Channel Islands, Del Norte is a perfect choice. Just be ready to carry in all your essentials and enjoy the islands rugged beauty!

@CLARKHC4F46F50 · Camped on Feb 7, 2025 at Campsite #2

Great hike w beautiful views. And foxes!

@RachelR8534803 · Camped on Jan 26, 2025 at Campsite #4

A nice, quiet campsite with a lovely hike out of prisoners harbor for access. The different sites are fairly close to one another for a backcountry site. Site 4 has the most shade/ is least exposed.At location: tent pad, bear proof food locker (for the foxes & birds), picnic table, pit toilet

@LisaR8773346 · Camped on Jan 17, 2025 at Campsite #4

Beautiful location with views of the Santa Barbara Channel. Each site had a picnic table, a food locker and an "engineered" flat spot to pitch your tent. Site #4 is under a low hanging oak tree. Site #3 had a more open oak tree, whereas sites #1 and #2 were open air. All 4 sites were nice but closer together than I expected. Each site is reservable for up to 4 people, but the engineered "tent-pitch area" is probably too small for a larger tent that would comfortably fit 4 people (perfect for a 2 person tent though) -- the surrounding ground is gently sloping. One pit toilet is shared by the 4 sites and was sufficient but a little smelly with a wooden floor. Hiked to Scorpion Campground 9.5 miles from Del Norte Camp and loved the trip!

@DarrenH8F8937F · Camped on Jan 10, 2025 at Campsite #3

All sites were reserved but we were the only ones that actually showed up for the night. The view was amazing, but the wind was intense. Stake your tent or it will blow over. There is no water at the site so carry your own. There are a lot of up and down sections getting to the site. There are some emergency water jugs, but they were all empty when we got there. Expect to only have the water you carry.

@RaenaR6C0D2FFA · Camped on Jan 1, 2025 at Campsite #2

We loved Del Norte campground. We did have a hard time finding out which campsite were which before we went. Number 1 has the best view as does number 2. 3 & 4 are back in the trees with more privacy. You can't do wrong with any spot. The outhouse is really ripe but it had toilet paper included. If I didn't live in Alaska I would go out to Santa Cruz all the time. It's an incredible trip. We hiked from Prisoners harbor to Del Norte, camped then continued to Scorpion for the second night of camping.

@Gabrielle89A52 · Camped on Dec 7, 2024 at Campsite #4

My first night on the island I stayed at Scorpion Anchorage, which had a lovely campsite with nice flat sites under the trees and access to drinking water in the campsite. Then I hiked the long trek to the Del Norte Backcountry sites, which were amazing campsites with absolutely majestic views. I was in campsite 4 which is nestled under a couple very twisty trees- super cool and fantasy-like. Definitely recommend camping in some capacity if you visit Santa Cruz Island!

@PeterS7845234 · Camped on Nov 18, 2024 at Campsite #1

I would suggest that efforts be made to provide more wind breaks at the campground, especially sites 001 and 002.Also, any chance to provide more backcountry campsite sites? Or offer backcountry permits for dispersed camping?

@BradS9486590 · Camped on Nov 11, 2024 at Campsite #1

With excellent views and being roughly 5 miles from Prisoners Harbor, this site is a perfect spot for a quiet scenic night of camping. The trails were well marked and maintained and sites were clean and relatively private. There is a pit toilet at the top of the hill as well. There is no water supply at Del Norte and I did not see any water sources on the hike from Prisoners Harbor or from Del Norte to Scorpion Canyon. There are water spigots at the Scorpion Campground but that's a 10 mile hike from Del Norte. Bring lots of water and be prepared for some hills and lots of amazing views. Also, plan for camping with critters, there are foxes and ravens that like to steal food if they can; use the provided fox boxes and consider sealing food and trash in ziploc bags. I'd highly recommend hiking across from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Canyon and stopping here. What a great trip!

@ClaireA2347578 · Camped on Oct 31, 2024 at Campsite #4

Gorgeous view from the campsite! Only 4 spots. Sites 3 and 4 have shade. Sites 1 and 2 are in direct sunlight. The drop toilet has toilet paper. Make sure you pack enough water - there is no water here. It's a steep climb to get here, and you'll not only need water for this night and breakfast, but for the long hike to Scorpion the following day (if you plan on backpacking there). We enjoyed our overnight here!

@MarklynR0C4AE6 · Camped on Oct 25, 2024 at Campsite #3

Great view and good vibes! We loved hiking across the island from Prisioners to Scorpion. Del Norte backcountry campground was awesome!

@KathleenL99212 · Camped on Oct 21, 2024 at Campsite #3

Gorgeous campground but dont underestimate the climb, especially carrying the water required. For Pelican Bay & Del Norte the first day, then the trek to Scorpion the next, I took 8L of water total and it was just barely enough for one person. Pit bathrooms were well cared for with TP and privacy. Little wind mid-October. Trek to Scorpion started easy but once the inclines start it becomes a long, challenging day in mid-sun. Very rewarding overall.

@LindsayD9CF223 · Camped on Oct 14, 2024 at Campsite #2

Ranger on duty was very attentive and came by with extra water just before sunset.

@AlisonL8037F1A · Camped on Sep 3, 2024 at Campsite #1

My entire experience on Santa Cruz felt magical. I was in heaven there, especially having my paddleboard with me. It was a tough climb to Del Norte after hiking to Pelican Bay. I recommend having a campground closer to the beach at Prisoners. And perhaps another backcountry camp mid island.

@HelgeTF013F977 · Camped on Aug 27, 2024 at Campsite #2

Wonderful place away from it all. Pleasent hike from prisoners harbour.

@simonek39A6B3D · Camped on Aug 17, 2024 at Campsite #1

Absolutely spectacular and worth the extra burden of carrying days worth of water and food if you are able. Overall/Recommendations: This side of the island was absolutely awe-inspiring and, in my opinion, more beautiful/interesting than Scorpion's Bay (aside from the kelp forests). Would recommend spending at least two-nights out here since it takes time to get around to each of the points of interest (especially with tight time constraints due to limiting ferry schedule). To lighten the load you can leave some food/water/extras near Prisoners Harbor in the provided bear boxes for night 1 then grab it on the way back up from a day trip to Pelican Bay or Prisonors Harbor (however, be sure to keep all your belongings clearly together, we did have one of 1L water bottles taken by a day-tripper--which could have been disasterous had we not overpacked water and were traveling to Scorpions Bay, where the sole water source is available). The hike to Pelican Bay was the most beautiful hike and we missed the diversity of plant species and landscapes as we traveled East to Scorpions Bay. This was a very tough hike with the heavy burden of about a 1.5gal of water under the hot sun with very sparse shade. Camp site: 01 had incredible impeccable views of the islands northern coastline especially at sunset. You are a little more secluded from the other sites so it really feels like you have it all to yourself. Picnic table and bear boxes are very handy. Didnt have any trouble with animals/rodents/insects. Only issue is there is no shade... better to avoid hanging around during the hottest part of the day and retreat to the water. Also the vault toilet/outhouse was.... honestly noxious. I couldnt even step foot in there, despite it being quite spacious and relatively clean.

@ShannonM451773 · Camped on Aug 1, 2024 at Campsite #3

We had the whole campground to ourselves, it was peaceful and the views were unbeatable.

@GillianVD3991E · Camped on Jul 15, 2024 at Campsite #2

We had sites 2 and 3. 2 is very exposed with great ocean views. 3 is shady and protected. Im not sure how often the bathroom is serviced, it was pretty gross.

@BrettS5682972 · Camped on Jul 8, 2024 at Campsite #3

Beautiful views, nice campground. Awesome location for day hikes.

@YeongTayD707AA · Camped on Jun 11, 2024 at Campsite #1

Nice, functional campsite - can't say much for the views as it was fogged in the entire time we were there. The leveled pads at each site are nice but a bit small for multiple tents, especially if your tent isn't freestanding and needs to be staked out. Some of the dirt is heavily compacted and it's difficult to drive stakes in - there are NO rocks around this area to use as improvised stake hammers. The picnic tables were nice to have. Watch out for mosquitos at dawn and dusk! The fox boxes are large and if empty you can probably squeeze most of two people's gear in there.Did the ~13 mile through hike from Scorpion Harbor. Warning to those doing the same, your pacing will be much slower than you think due to the unmaintaned / overgrown state of the trail. The Island Packer boats all arrive at Scorpion by around 11a/12p but that's on the late side to be starting this hike - including breaks we barely made it to the campground before nightfall at around 8pm (and you really don't want to be hiking this trail in the dark). Fortunately most of the stream crossings were dried up at this time of year or else the going would be even more difficult. Wear long pants, long sleeves and long socks: you'll be shoving your way through brush for a good part of the hike. Bring extra socks to change out if the ones you're wearing get tangled up with organic debris! Trekking poles are near impossibile to use effectively for parts of it. Bring more water than you think you'll need and don't forget to reapply sunscreen!

@DavidA3218244 · Camped on May 3, 2024 at Campsite #4

Second time camping hereone of the most special and singular spots in SoCal. Love the hike inbeautiful, invigorating, but not back-breaking. The solitude of only 4 campsites, all well cared for, offers an unparalleled escape. Can't wait to return.

@CarolB2589812 · Camped on Apr 28, 2024 at Campsite #1

Gorgeous campsite, no water so bring your own.

@RicardoV563F5A · Camped on Apr 22, 2024 at Campsite #2

I wish this website had more info about the rules/expectations for the site and of the island itself.Website omits info about water and "backcountry" camping. Its not true backcountry camping, you can only post at campsites. There is no potable water at Del Norte. There is also nowhere to filter water. Pack all your own water. Bear boxes provided at site.Beautiful location otherwise, Rangers brief you upon arrival. Have fun

@AnthonyM286222 · Camped on Mar 27, 2024 at Campsite #2

Scenic ocean views!Lots ticks in the high grass.Totally worth it

@tylerC5881408 · Camped on Mar 1, 2024 at Campsite #1

What a beautiful island. We had unexpected heavy rain, which prevented us from staying the night. Island Packers suggested that we leave the island as a storm was coming in. The campsite is nice though, but with few amenities. Highly recommend. Make sure to book your ferry when you book the campsite.

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Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground, Channel Islands National Park, CA