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Channel Islands National Park › California
› Ventura County
› Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground
› Campsite #1
Campsite #1 at Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry Campground, Channel Islands National Park, CA
$15
Tent Site #1
| Walk-In | 4 people |
| 0 | good |
5/29
6/5
Campsite #1 Features: Walk-In access, Back-In parking, Food Storage Locker, Picnic Table, Tent Site
Campsite Reviews (25)
4.0 out of 5
| 5 star | | 84% |
| 4 star | | 12% |
| 3 star | | 4% |
| 2 star | | 0% |
| 1 star | | 0% |
@AmeliaO7CE05EE · Camped on May 20, 2025 at Campsite #1
Beautiful campsite location! We had a view of the sun setting over the harbor and it was very quiet. However, the trail to get there and the trails to other locations were not very well maintained. At some points, it felt like we were bush whacking instead of hiking. We stayed two nights, but I would recommend only staying one because it is very dry and the campsite does not have water or even emergency stores. However, overall we had a good time and I would go back for a night.
@RebeccaK768006 · Camped on Feb 24, 2025 at Campsite #1
Del Norte Campground is a fantastic spot for those looking for a remote and peaceful backcountry experience on Santa Cruz Island. The 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor is moderately challenging, with some elevation gain, but the views along the way make it absolutely worth it.I stayed at Campsite #1, which had the best views but was also the most exposed. Despite that, I did fine and would probably choose that site again. The campground itself is small and quiet, offering four campsites with stunning views of the coastline and surrounding hills. Since it's one of the few backcountry campgrounds in Channel Islands National Park, it feels much more secluded than Scorpion Ranch. The sites are well-spaced, and the area is well-maintained, though theres no water availableso be sure to pack plenty.Water was something I was nervous about since I had planned on hiking to Scorpion Ranch, so I packed six liters, which turned out to be more than enough for me. The ranger also dropped off two gallons of emergency water in the fox box early in the afternoon, which was a good backup but not something to rely on.One of the highlights is watching the sunset from the nearby ridge. The islands natural beauty, combined with the sense of solitude, makes this an incredible experience. That said, be prepared for strong winds at night, and as with any coastal camping, be mindful of the weather conditions.If youre looking for a true backcountry camping adventure in the Channel Islands, Del Norte is a perfect choice. Just be ready to carry in all your essentials and enjoy the islands rugged beauty!
@PeterS7845234 · Camped on Nov 18, 2024 at Campsite #1
I would suggest that efforts be made to provide more wind breaks at the campground, especially sites 001 and 002.Also, any chance to provide more backcountry campsite sites? Or offer backcountry permits for dispersed camping?
@BradS9486590 · Camped on Nov 11, 2024 at Campsite #1
With excellent views and being roughly 5 miles from Prisoners Harbor, this site is a perfect spot for a quiet scenic night of camping. The trails were well marked and maintained and sites were clean and relatively private. There is a pit toilet at the top of the hill as well. There is no water supply at Del Norte and I did not see any water sources on the hike from Prisoners Harbor or from Del Norte to Scorpion Canyon. There are water spigots at the Scorpion Campground but that's a 10 mile hike from Del Norte. Bring lots of water and be prepared for some hills and lots of amazing views. Also, plan for camping with critters, there are foxes and ravens that like to steal food if they can; use the provided fox boxes and consider sealing food and trash in ziploc bags. I'd highly recommend hiking across from Prisoners Harbor to Scorpion Canyon and stopping here. What a great trip!
@AlisonL8037F1A · Camped on Sep 3, 2024 at Campsite #1
My entire experience on Santa Cruz felt magical. I was in heaven there, especially having my paddleboard with me. It was a tough climb to Del Norte after hiking to Pelican Bay. I recommend having a campground closer to the beach at Prisoners. And perhaps another backcountry camp mid island.
@simonek39A6B3D · Camped on Aug 17, 2024 at Campsite #1
Absolutely spectacular and worth the extra burden of carrying days worth of water and food if you are able. Overall/Recommendations: This side of the island was absolutely awe-inspiring and, in my opinion, more beautiful/interesting than Scorpion's Bay (aside from the kelp forests). Would recommend spending at least two-nights out here since it takes time to get around to each of the points of interest (especially with tight time constraints due to limiting ferry schedule). To lighten the load you can leave some food/water/extras near Prisoners Harbor in the provided bear boxes for night 1 then grab it on the way back up from a day trip to Pelican Bay or Prisonors Harbor (however, be sure to keep all your belongings clearly together, we did have one of 1L water bottles taken by a day-tripper--which could have been disasterous had we not overpacked water and were traveling to Scorpions Bay, where the sole water source is available). The hike to Pelican Bay was the most beautiful hike and we missed the diversity of plant species and landscapes as we traveled East to Scorpions Bay. This was a very tough hike with the heavy burden of about a 1.5gal of water under the hot sun with very sparse shade. Camp site: 01 had incredible impeccable views of the islands northern coastline especially at sunset. You are a little more secluded from the other sites so it really feels like you have it all to yourself. Picnic table and bear boxes are very handy. Didnt have any trouble with animals/rodents/insects. Only issue is there is no shade... better to avoid hanging around during the hottest part of the day and retreat to the water. Also the vault toilet/outhouse was.... honestly noxious. I couldnt even step foot in there, despite it being quite spacious and relatively clean.
@YeongTayD707AA · Camped on Jun 11, 2024 at Campsite #1
Nice, functional campsite - can't say much for the views as it was fogged in the entire time we were there. The leveled pads at each site are nice but a bit small for multiple tents, especially if your tent isn't freestanding and needs to be staked out. Some of the dirt is heavily compacted and it's difficult to drive stakes in - there are NO rocks around this area to use as improvised stake hammers. The picnic tables were nice to have. Watch out for mosquitos at dawn and dusk! The fox boxes are large and if empty you can probably squeeze most of two people's gear in there.Did the ~13 mile through hike from Scorpion Harbor. Warning to those doing the same, your pacing will be much slower than you think due to the unmaintaned / overgrown state of the trail. The Island Packer boats all arrive at Scorpion by around 11a/12p but that's on the late side to be starting this hike - including breaks we barely made it to the campground before nightfall at around 8pm (and you really don't want to be hiking this trail in the dark). Fortunately most of the stream crossings were dried up at this time of year or else the going would be even more difficult. Wear long pants, long sleeves and long socks: you'll be shoving your way through brush for a good part of the hike. Bring extra socks to change out if the ones you're wearing get tangled up with organic debris! Trekking poles are near impossibile to use effectively for parts of it. Bring more water than you think you'll need and don't forget to reapply sunscreen!
@CarolB2589812 · Camped on Apr 28, 2024 at Campsite #1
Gorgeous campsite, no water so bring your own.
@tylerC5881408 · Camped on Mar 1, 2024 at Campsite #1
What a beautiful island. We had unexpected heavy rain, which prevented us from staying the night. Island Packers suggested that we leave the island as a storm was coming in. The campsite is nice though, but with few amenities. Highly recommend. Make sure to book your ferry when you book the campsite.
@JonathanS47608 · Camped on Dec 14, 2023 at Campsite #1
Reserved site 1 but we ended up staying in site 3. It was so windy that we were too cold in #1. Also our picnic table was SHATTERED. Like a movie monster had gotten to it. It would have been the perfect site after a long summer hike with a warm night, as there was nothing but perfect stars to see.
@ChantonP5E9269 · Camped on Dec 5, 2023 at Campsite #1
One of my favorite campsites in the NPS! We had the first site and it overlooked Prisoner's Bay and had a beautiful sunset. Very peaceful and isolated during our stay. The surrounding scene is also very lush on this side of the island. Ranger was thoughtful and made sure to check if we were good for our cross-island hike.
@DannyW5038345 · Camped on Nov 16, 2023 at Campsite #1
Would recommend starting at Prisoner's Harbor and hiking up to the Del Norte campsite for the sunsets and sunrises. The hike from the campsite to Scorpion Anchorage for pickup the next day is well worth the 12 miles for an adventurous backpacking experience.
@ShanonS21C9240 · Camped on Oct 30, 2023 at Campsite #1
The campground was easy to find and beautiful to camp at. There is a little maintenance that needs to happen in campground one with the picnic table.
@SarahB5025907 · Camped on Aug 28, 2023 at Campsite #1
Site 001 is worth it. It's magical. The view of mountains, cliffs, and the ocean just sprawls out in front of you. Best sunsets you'll ever see. BUT: Bring something to shade yourself, because there is NO shade at site 001. We brought a small rain tarp (the ones built for hammocks) and propped it up with hiking sticks.
@LindseyL754048 · Camped on May 26, 2023 at Campsite #1
Overall, this was an incredible experience! Beautiful views at every turn, great campsite, cool wildlife, and challenging hike. I highly recommend bringing gaiters and some form of bug repellent as the trail is a tad overgrown. Our group carried ~7L of water each and it was the perfect amount. Definitely worth the trip out if you can!
@KerriH9218976 · Camped on Apr 9, 2023 at Campsite #1
Long review because I found information on logistics to be limited when I was planning my trip, so I hope this helps someone else:
Site #1 has amazing views!! Fox box and new pit toilet bathrooms were clean and as expected. I hiked from Scorpion Cove up to Del Norte then down to Prisoner’s Harbor on Day 2. The hike was tough with the water haul but totally worth it!!
I chose to hike from Scorpion Cove because I was on the island for an entire week. This allowed me to set up a Basecamp at Scorpion Cove and leave my extra gear locked in the fox box at base camp and only take what I needed for the 2 day hike from Scorpion to Del Norte then on to Prisoner’s.
At the end I took the ferry from Prisoner’s Harbor back to Scorpion Cove. This worked great for me!
I also took the North Bluff Trail to go over the Montanon Ridge. It was a longer hike because I added Cavern Point and Potato Harbor, but the views made it totally worth it! I also wanted the steepest part of the hike on Day 1 with fresh legs rather than at the end of a long 2 day trek.
I went solo (female) and felt very safe. Park rangers and Island Packers staff were very helpful and very kind. I also carried a Garmin InReach with my route preprogrammed and a topo map.
5 liters of water worked for me. Cold foggy weather-I drank 1 liter at base camp prior to departure, drank 2 on the way up. Used 1 liter for dehydrated meal for dinner and morning coffee, then had 2 liters to hike to Prisoner’s Harbor with. I drank another liter when I reached base camp later that afternoon (and purchased a celebratory wine on the ferry from Prisoner’s to Scorpion).
I hope my comment and experience will help someone else enjoy as epic a trip as I did!
Happy hiking-you will not regret this site!!
Site #1 has amazing views!! Fox box and new pit toilet bathrooms were clean and as expected. I hiked from Scorpion Cove up to Del Norte then down to Prisoner’s Harbor on Day 2. The hike was tough with the water haul but totally worth it!!
I chose to hike from Scorpion Cove because I was on the island for an entire week. This allowed me to set up a Basecamp at Scorpion Cove and leave my extra gear locked in the fox box at base camp and only take what I needed for the 2 day hike from Scorpion to Del Norte then on to Prisoner’s.
At the end I took the ferry from Prisoner’s Harbor back to Scorpion Cove. This worked great for me!
I also took the North Bluff Trail to go over the Montanon Ridge. It was a longer hike because I added Cavern Point and Potato Harbor, but the views made it totally worth it! I also wanted the steepest part of the hike on Day 1 with fresh legs rather than at the end of a long 2 day trek.
I went solo (female) and felt very safe. Park rangers and Island Packers staff were very helpful and very kind. I also carried a Garmin InReach with my route preprogrammed and a topo map.
5 liters of water worked for me. Cold foggy weather-I drank 1 liter at base camp prior to departure, drank 2 on the way up. Used 1 liter for dehydrated meal for dinner and morning coffee, then had 2 liters to hike to Prisoner’s Harbor with. I drank another liter when I reached base camp later that afternoon (and purchased a celebratory wine on the ferry from Prisoner’s to Scorpion).
I hope my comment and experience will help someone else enjoy as epic a trip as I did!
Happy hiking-you will not regret this site!!
@JeramiM5281300 · Camped on Mar 28, 2023 at Campsite #1
Wonderful views of the mountains and ocean. Sites conveniently have a food box and a picnic table. It was nice that our site provided a level raised platform for the tent since the site was slightly sloped. We were able to fit a 2p tent on it. Pit toilet also available.
@SamS5464358 · Camped on Mar 2, 2023 at Campsite #1
We hiked to Del Norte camp from Prisoners Harbor in early March and it was such a beautiful and restful experience. I had a done a lot of research but the camp sites were better than I could imagine. Beautiful views and very private and clean. It was nice to have the convenience of the picnic table, lockers, and restroom. Can’t wait to come back!
@ElisabethE2476 · Camped on Dec 24, 2022 at Campsite #1
Amazing view and solitude. Sites 1-2 provide best views but almost no shade - wile 3-4 have less view but more shade. Best campground so far visited in California. Clean pit-style toilets. About 1,5hrs hike from prisoner’s harbor and 4hrs from scorpion. Take plenty of water - start early if you hike to scorpion to avoid the heat and to get there before lunch!
@SophiaD629 · Camped on Jan 9, 2022 at Campsite #1
Beautiful camp spot! I reccomend spot 1 for the beautiful view overlooking the island and ocean, although like other reviews mentioned, it leaves you very exposed to the wind. Spots 3/4 are more covered although there were a lot more bugs because of the surrounding low trees. Pick your poison I guess- beautiful view and loud wind at night, or more bugs and potential wind coverage. Either way, a wonderfully maintained site! Beautifully secluded and quiet.
@AkunnaU726 · Camped on Dec 31, 2021 at Campsite #1
Amazing! Pack in enough water and enjoy!
@DavidV837 · Camped on Jun 30, 2021 at Campsite #1
Beautiful campsite. I recommend the 001 & 002 sites as they have the best views. Also, bring enough water. I’d suggest a gallon per day. Bring sweets and food in tightly wrapped packaging. Ants got into my trail mix that was sealed in ziplock bags. Also, if you’re attempting the hike to Scorpion cove, it’s definitely strenuous. Take lots of water and snacks, plus sunscreen. It’s about 22 miles round trip from the del norte camp ground. Super beautiful and amazing. Love it here!!!!
@NicoleG974 · Camped on Jun 4, 2021 at Campsite #1
Absolutely incredible, 10/10 recommend! So isolated and such beauty! Be prepared for June gloom. The hike to China Harbor is well worth it. Campsite 1 has a beautiful view while campsite 4 is more secluded under a big tree that has a lot of scrub jays hanging around.
@CraigH717 · Camped on Apr 30, 2021 at Campsite #1
Best view anyone could ask for!
@JohnC157 · Camped on Mar 7, 2021 at Campsite #1
Amazing spot on the bluffs, appreciative of the solitude and natural beauty. Seems like something akin to camping on the Big Sur coast. Hike in was tough with water weight but worth it.
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