Scorpion Ranch Santa Cruz Island

At the top of our list comes what's likely the most secluded camping spot in all of California. Scorpion Ranch is set on the eastern side of Santa Cruz island, meaning you’ll need a boat to get to it. Fortunately organizing transport isn’t too difficult, but we do recommend you pack enough food and supplies to last the length of your stay since civilization isn't as easy to revisit. At Scorpion Ranch, you can enjoy hiking spectacular seaside cliffs, kayaking through ocean coves, and basking in the freedom of seclusion. That's probably about as good as it gets.

Season Dates
Campground is open during the following season(s):

January 01, 2019 - December 31, 2019 (Peak Season)
January 01, 2020 - December 31, 2020 (Peak Season)
During the above season(s), individual campsites are released on a 6-month rolling basis:
Currently campsite availability is released through December 25, 2019.
On June 26, 2019 at 07:00 am PDT, campsite availability will be released through December 26, 2019.
During the above season(s), group campsites are released on a 12-month rolling basis:
Currently campsite availability is released through June 25, 2020.
On June 26, 2019 at 07:00 am PDT, campsite availability will be released through June 26, 2020.

Overview
Fantastic ocean views and relaxing beach time is practically guaranteed at Scorpion Canyon Campground, the most family-friendly campsite on Santa Cruz Island. Set on the eastern part of the island, the campground is a short hike from the pier and is sheltered from harsh ocean winds. The largest of California's Channel Islands, Santa Cruz Island is one of the five islands that make up the Channel Islands National Park. The island is rich in cultural history, magnificent landscapes, and unique flora and fauna. Native American Indians inhabited the island for over 10,000 years and Europeans explored and ranched on the island for over 150 years. Over 600 plant species, 140 land birds, 11 land mammals and a handful of amphibians and reptiles call the island their home. The island fox and island scrub-jay are exciting finds, as they're unique to the island, found nowhere else in the world. For more information about Santa Cruz Island visit: https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/santa-cruz-island.htm .

Facilities
Primitive camping is available at Scorpion Canyon Campground with 25 individual sites which accommodate up to six persons per site; and six group sites with up to 15 persons per site. Picnic table, food storage box, pit toilet, and water are provided. The campground is a flat 1/2 mile to 1 mile hike from the pier. Access to the island is by Island Packers Cruises or by private boat.

Natural Features
The beach near the campground is a mix of sand and rocks, and faces the Santa Barbara Channel. The campground is located in a valley with a mixture of trees and shrubs. Rugged mountain peaks rise above the campground to 1,808 feet.

Recreation
With its easy beach access and generally good weather, this area offers the most recreational activities in the park, including hiking, swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking and wildlife/wildflower viewing. There are no services on the island, so all gear has to be brought to the island. Guided kayak trips and kayak rentals must be arranged before arriving on the island. For more information about recreational activities in the park, visit https://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/index.htm.

Recreation Sites $15 - $40 per night
Tent Only Nonelectric
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric

Nearby Attractions
Hiking options are unlimited and offer spectacular coastal views. Try the 2 mile round-trip Cavern Point Loop hike for views of the island's mountain peaks, and the southern California coastline. This popular hike takes you past antique ranching equipment and historic buildings for a taste of island ranch history. For more advanced hikers, tackle the 7.5-mile round-trip hike from the campground to Smugglers Cove.