Trip · 3-day backpacking trip
For · Families and curious backpackers
Vibe · Moderate and adventurous
Distance ·
Permits · Reserve a campsite and a round-trip ferry ticket
Drive · 1 hour drive from LA and a 2.5 hour ferry ride
Ideal dates · August 15 - December 31 (when the island is open for camping)
Pets · Not allowed on the islands
Channel Islands National Park (CINP) has five spectacular islands: Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara. Planning a backpacking a trip involves some ferry logistics, but don't let that deter you from having a once-in-a-lifetime California adventure. This trek takes you to Santa Rosa Island, which is only open for a few months out of the year. Plan ahead and enjoy unforgettable views.
Official National Park Website
Main image credit: Yvonne Leow
Operator: Island Packers
Frequency of Trips: Boat trips run April through early November, 2-4 days per week.
Travel Time from Ventura Harbor: Boat trips are 3 hours.
Landing Conditions: Visitors must climb up steps from the boat, then up a steel-rung ladder to a lower landing, and then climb up stairs to the top of the pier at Bechers Bay. When the pier is closed, landings are via skiff onto the beach.
The campground is located 1.5 miles from the ferry drop off point, along a relatively flat trail.
Each campsite comes with a:
Tucked away in a canyon to protect visitors from strong northwest winds, Water Canyon Campground offers exceptional island views, access to spectacular hiking opportunities and a nearby white sand beach. Remains of an ancient species like the pygmy mammoth have been uncovered on Santa Rosa Island. These miniature mammoths, reaching just four to six feet tall, roamed the island's grasslands and forests during the Pleistocene Age.
Check-in: Noon · Check-out: Noon
Nightly Rate: $34
Channel Islands National Park was established in 1980. For over a century before, Santa Rosa Island was occupied by sheep and cattle ranchers.
Santa Rosa was home to the Island Chumash tribe. In fact, the oldest human remains ever discovered in North America, dating back to 13,000 years ago, was found on Santa Rosa Island.
Torrey pines grow naturally in two places on Earth: one area is in San Diego and the other is on Santa Rosa Island.
This colorful tent can fit 4 to 6 people, and is easy to set up and pack out!
Shelters
Bezzi's Picks
Lean back, and we mean all the way back, in this luxurious camp chair. You'll never want to sit up.
Essential Items
Bezzi's Picks
These are the cushiest sleeping pads we've tried! They come in Extra Wide and Double (for extra cuddles).
Essential Items
Bezzi's Picks
A sleeping bag that's designed for toddlers from ages 18-36 months.
Essential Items
Sleep
A sleeping bag designed for kiddos age 2-4 years old
Essential Items
Sleep
A cozy sweatshirt for ages 6 months to 4T designed for outdoor exploration.
Clothes
Bezzi's Picks
A durable and soft flannel shirt that's kid-sized from 6 months to 4T
Clothes
Bezzi's Picks
Bring your own or splurge on this pillow that's designed for outdoor fun.
Essential Items
Sleep
Picnic tables don't always cut it for cooking outside. This one is easy to use and has plenty of counter space.
Kitchen
Elevate your sleep system (literally) with this heavy-ish but easy to set up cot.
Essential Items
Sleep
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.