5
Channel Islands National Park › California
› Ventura County
› Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground
› Campsite #5
Campsite #5 at Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground, Channel Islands National Park, CA
$15
Tent Site #5
| Walk-In | 6 people |
| 0 | fair |
3/3
4/21
Campsite #5 Features: Walk-In access, Back-In parking, Food Storage Locker, Picnic Table, Tent Site, No Pets Allowed
Campsite Reviews (25)
5.0 out of 5
| 5 star | | 92% |
| 4 star | | 4% |
| 3 star | | 4% |
| 2 star | | 0% |
| 1 star | | 0% |
@RaisaSFA5C243E · Camped on Nov 26, 2025 at Campsite #5
Clean and well kept campsites. The day visitor restrooms are a lot cleaner than the ones on the campsite
@KariS7762130 · Camped on Aug 3, 2025 at Campsite #5
I came with my best friend and her tween, we had the best time together. screen free, gorgeous setting, beautiful hikes and got to do the sea cave kayaking. I had been scared of camping due to a previous big animal encounter elsewhere and getting the chance to be on Santa Cruz island (with no big animals) reaffirmed my love for being in the great outdoors beyond a day hike. couldnt recommend more and I look forward to coming back to this magical place.
@PattyB9081868 · Camped on May 9, 2025 at Campsite #5
Our group did a one-night camping trip to Santa Cruz Island, Scorpion campground. The campground was very clean and the site was spacious. Also, well shaded. We hiked to Smuggler's Cove the day we got there, which made for a late start (noon, by the time we set up our tents and put our food in the fox box). It was a bit warm, but manageable. The next day we hiked to Potato Harbor. Both hikes were beautiful, the hills were green, and the wildflowers were out.I would definitely consider the weather conditions to plan hiking activities. If it's hot, there's no cover.
@KaylaC8EFFE655 · Camped on Nov 3, 2024 at Campsite #5
We had a wonderful weekend! It rained the first day, was a bit windy the second day, and absolutely stunning the last day (of course). Because of the weather forecast, it seemed that many people were deterred from visiting, which suited us just fine. We had the whole island to ourselves. Well, we did have to share with the foxes and ravens, but that was also enjoyable. We especially liked chatting with the various volunteers and rangers, they were so kind, helpful, and informative. Definitely one of my favorite camping experiences. We hiked the north side (to Potato Harbor) the first day and had a bit of rain, but the views were stunning, and who cares if you get a little wet? The second day we hiked to Smugglers Bay, which was gorgeous. The only thing is that there is no shade along the hikes. Like, at all. So, bring adequate sun protection. I wish I'd spent all day at Smugglers Bay because, again, no one was there, and it was positively divine. We snorkeled the last day (brought our own gear), and the water was clear, if a bit chilly, but no complaints on that. Overall an incredible experience. We saw loads of dolphins on the way there and back, and the boat ride was nice.
@JamesG6676411 · Camped on May 7, 2024 at Campsite #5
Very clean and tranquil!!
@SarahA7073307 · Camped on Mar 8, 2024 at Campsite #5
One of the best campsites in California! Unfortunately, you must put everything (including *empty* packs) in the bear boxes. The crows know how to open zippers and inspect. Monitor items closely when on the beach for the same reason.
@cindyv3F586B15 · Camped on Feb 11, 2024 at Campsite #5
Had a very good time. Campgrounds are very nice and we plan to go back soon.
@AthenaC1139081 · Camped on Apr 26, 2023 at Campsite #5
Great campsite. Each spot has a picnic table and fox box. Make sure not to leave anything out, the foxes will come take it right away. No yellow-jackets when we went in April, but my partner got several tick bites. Toilets are regularly cleaned. Several hikes are accessible from here. We also did a kayak tour that I would recommend.
@KanF3385663E55 · Camped on Mar 18, 2023 at Campsite #5
Close to nature, hiking trails, and had encounters with island foxes. Lush green around campsite, and close to drinking water and dock. It is an excellent island getaway camping experience.
@ShaneM5636433 · Camped on Oct 25, 2022 at Campsite #5
Strongly recommend snorkeling in the area near the pier! Beautiful hiking and breathtaking views!
@JaniceG3391082 · Camped on Oct 10, 2022 at Campsite #5
My husband, daughter, and myself camped for two nights on the lower loop and had such a great time. The campground and bathroom facilities were extremely clean and well cared for. The campground's easy access to the boat was a huge plus. In the days we were there, we hiked about 34 miles. Our favorite hike was to Smugglers Cove because of the incredible views. The little foxes were so so cute!
@LaurenS8749134 · Camped on Sep 16, 2022 at Campsite #5
Had a great time camping here. Each site has a picnic table and food storage box and there is drinking water and toilets on site. There were a ton of yellow jackets at the drinking water station but they were not aggressive and we never had any issues with them when getting water but be aware that they are there when you go. We also did a sea kayak tour through the sea caves and had a great time. The hiking is great too as barely anyone was on the trails and it was like we had the entire island to ourselves. Highly recommend planning a visit here!
@DavidN9135851 · Camped on Jun 18, 2022 at Campsite #5
Santa Cruz Island was beautiful, and the campsites were a comfortable place from which to enjoy it. Fox boxes were good for food storage, sites had shade and shelter with the trees, and water and toilets close enough for convenience. The walk from the boat landing took a little time but was flat and not difficult. Highly recommended!
@DanielOE2FC5A4 · Camped on Apr 10, 2022 at Campsite #5
Paradise.
@AnthonyG514442 · Camped on Feb 18, 2022 at Campsite #5
Great overall experience look for to coming back and visiting the other islands.
@RameshNDB9F876 · Camped on Jan 5, 2022 at Campsite #5
Wonderful campground and facilities. Very clean restrooms and there is potable water in the campground near camp site #5. Awesome island and has a lot of trails.
@RameshN929 · Camped on Jan 5, 2022 at Campsite #5
Wonderful campground and facilities. Very clean restrooms and there is potable water in the campground near camp site #5. Awesome island and has a lot of trails.
@JimV611 · Camped on Nov 27, 2021 at Campsite #5
With only a small number of campsites, and with few exceptions, everyone comes on the Island Packers ferry, a lot of whom are just there for the day...made for a great, relaxing, not over-crowded campout. Kayaking in the morning, hiking in the afternoons, sunrise and sunset photography. Our Park Ranger was fantastic, always upbeat, positive, and available for questions.
@JimV4156202 · Camped on Nov 27, 2021 at Campsite #5
With only a small number of campsites, and with few exceptions, everyone comes on the Island Packers ferry, a lot of whom are just there for the day...made for a great, relaxing, not over-crowded campout. Kayaking in the morning, hiking in the afternoons, sunrise and sunset photography. Our Park Ranger was fantastic, always upbeat, positive, and available for questions.
@BartholomADA6F · Camped on Nov 25, 2021 at Campsite #5
Excellent trip. The bathrooms were renovated and clean, and the campsite was clear. Other campers around us were friendly and well-spaced.
@BartholomewR15 · Camped on Nov 25, 2021 at Campsite #5
Excellent trip. The bathrooms were renovated and clean, and the campsite was clear. Other campers around us were friendly and well-spaced.
@HannahL738 · Camped on Oct 4, 2021 at Campsite #5
Beautiful island and worth spending the night so you can take a longer hike or kayak trip.
@HannahL1734089 · Camped on Oct 4, 2021 at Campsite #5
Beautiful island and worth spending the night so you can take a longer hike or kayak trip.
@JaesonM2BF8947 · Camped on Dec 29, 2019 at Campsite #5
Even in bad weather, it was worth the effort. Easy walk to campground (just make sure you can carry whatever you bring). Nice to have water available so you don't have to pack it in. Very sheltered from wind (it was howling at the treetops). Watch out for those cute but fearless foxes!
@CharlesF612014 · Camped on Aug 26, 2019 at Campsite #5
Beautiful location. I am not pleased however with the way the NPS has allowed commercial guided kayaking operations (Channel Islands Adventure Company) to impact the beach, campground, and areas in between. Appears this company has been granted carte blanche to monopolize the beach. They've set up a big storage area near the beach, a significant complex of temporary buildings, and have a small tent city near the rear of the campground. Additionally, the kayak outfitters operate motorized vehicles that run to and fro through the campground, showering the campground, tents, and campers with clouds of dust. Just not the experience one would expect at a National Park.
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