Anacapa Island Campground

What if your camping trip could feature dramatic cliffside views, thriving wildlife, and an unparalleled sense of isolation in the open ocean? Perched atop the rugged cliffs of East Anacapa Island in Channel Islands National Park, the Anacapa Island Campground offers a unique escape into California’s raw coastal beauty, blending primitive camping with breathtaking surroundings.

Accessed by boat and a steep climb up 154 steps from the Landing Cove, this small, primitive campground has just seven sites, each outfitted with a picnic table, food storage locker, and pit toilet. No potable water, shade, or other services are available, making self-sufficiency essential. The reward for this effort is a serene, off-the-grid experience enhanced by stunning ocean panoramas, colorful wildflowers during the winter rains, and the calming sounds of waves crashing below. The island’s two-mile trail system includes scenic overlooks, cultural history sites, and abundant wildlife, from nesting seabirds to playful sea lions along the rocky shore.

Located about an hour’s boat ride from Ventura Harbor, Anacapa Island is a haven for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. Opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing abound in the waters surrounding the island, with its vibrant kelp forests and striking natural features like sea caves and Arch Rock. Whether you seek a peaceful overnight retreat or a base for adventurous exploration, this campground offers an unforgettable connection to one of California’s most distinctive and unspoiled environments.