Right off the coast of California is one of the most amazing and remote places in the United States, the Channel Islands. This series of four main islands and a bunch of small ones include a little something for everyone from hiking to scuba diving. The best way to do any of these is to get a boat over the islands and camp for a couple of nights. This post is a review of the campground on Anacapa, the closest Channel Island.
Reservations
You can reserve a spot online here.
Cost
When I looked it was $15 a night to reserve a campground.
Restrictions
- Have to book a boat reservation to get over to the island
- Must pack in whatever you are bringing
- Half mile hike from drop off point with 154 stairs
- Food storage lockers available
- No stores or services on island
- No fires, camp stoves only
Location
The location is one of the main draws to this island as it is completely secluded and it would not be strange to be the only people on the island (minus the ranger) when you go. Beautiful place to enjoy views of the stars and hiking.
Campground
There are four main spots at this campground with food storage and access to two pit toilets. While this is a great location, be warned that the island has no access to a beach other than via kayak and it is only about 2 square miles of land so there is not a lot to do without getting in the water. Most people who visit this island make it a day trip with drop off in the morning and pick up in the afternoon but if you have a kayak or scuba gear there is a ton of great spots to explore here. If not then you may find yourself wishing you were on a bigger island.
Bathrooms and Water
There is no access to water so you must bring it, along with food and other essentials, but there are two pit toilets.
Trails Near By
The island itself has one main trail which goes to some beautiful vistas such as Inspiration Point, the lighthouse and Cathedral Cove. You can see the whole island in a couple hours but if you take your time or spend a couple hours watching the sunset from Inspiration Point then you can easily make a full day here. That being said if you are not a fan of taking your time then you may get bored walking around the small island.
All in all I was a huge fan of the Channel Islands, and in that Anacapa. It is a beautiful place with a ton of amazing vistas and I would love to come back here and spend some time kayaking around and checking out the pristine beaches. If you have camped here by sure to sound off in the comments.
Photo Gallery
