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.
It's pricey, but Supergoop! makes putting on sunscreen feel smooth and easy.
Self-Care
A cute and colorful patch that repels mosquitoes with a natural repellent.
Self-Care
Self-care
A neat way to pack, carry, and organize dirty shoes.
Personal Stuff
Clothes
A lightweight, easy to clean customizable leash that comes in a rainbow of colors.
Pets
Pets
A weather-resistant LED collar so your pup stays safe at night.
Pets
Pets
Add this pup medication and liquid bandage bundle to your first aid kit.
Pets
Pets
Enjoy the small town charm and enchanting wilderness in Idyllwild for this beginner camping trip.