Details
Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground, Santa Cruz Island, CA, 93001
National Park ServiceLast Updated: March 4, 2026
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
The Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is currently the only backcountry campground on Santa Cruz Island. The hike to the campground is 3.5 miles from Prisoners Harbor and 12 miles from Scorpion Anchorage. It has four primitive campsites (four persons per site) and users must camp within these designated sites.Reservations are required ($15 per night-per site). A picnic table, food storage box, and pit-style toilet are provided (campers must bring their own toilet paper).
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is open year round.
Weather
Campers should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. Sturdy, low-profile tents, stakes, and line for securing tents to ground or table. Fog can occur on the islands during any season producing cool, damp conditions. Overexposure to the wind and sun can be a serious problem. Visitors are advised to bring supplies for an extra day in case boats are unable to pick up campers due to sea conditions. Current weather: http://channelislands.noaa.gov/news/kiosk.h
Amenities
Toilets
Staff or Host On-Site
Food Storage Lockers
Directions
Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is only accessible by boat. Visit our island transportation webpage for more information: http://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/island-transportation.htm The hike to the campground is 3.5 miles from Prisoners Harbor and 12 miles from Scorpion Anchorage.
Rates & Fees
Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground Fee
Advanced camping reservations are required for all of the park's campgrounds. There are no entrance fees to visit the park. However, a reservation fee of $15.00 per site-per night is charged for camping on the islands. For the Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground, this fee covers up to four people. Reservations can be made by calling (877) 444-6777 or through http://www.recreation.gov/.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
No fires are permitted. Use only enclosed, gas camp stoves.Regulations Overview
The protection and preservation of your park's biological and cultural resources is the mission of the National Park Service. By following the regulations and guidelines listed below, you can help protect these rare and unique treasures for future generations to enjoy. For a more complete description please visit Laws and Policies and Leave No Trace. Regulations: -Backcountry camping is allowed only at the Del Norte site. -Store all food in animal- and bird-proof containers. -Pack out all trash. -No fires are allowed Guidelines: -Strain or separate food particles from cooking water and pack them out. Scatter the gray water 200 ft. from water sources and camps. -Minimize soap use to keep the backcountry free of chemicals. If washing with soap, rinse 200 ft. from water sources. -Do not damage live trees, plants, and other living things. It is not permitted to chop or nail trees, harvest or trample plants.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
Due to the rugged hike, the Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is not accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
RV Allowed
No
RV Information
Santa Cruz Island is only accessible via boat.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
Due to the rugged hike, the Santa Cruz Island Del Norte Backcountry Campground is not accessible for individuals in wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
Trailer Allowed
No
Access Roads
No Roads
Classifications
Designated Primitive Campsites
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