Tent Sites
Anthony L
VerifiedMay 30, 2021 Stayed at: 007, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
The sea state was rough and the boat had to cancel the trip. Received a refund from them but could not get a refund for my camping fees
Helpful
About Anacapa Island
Once visitors have scaled the rugged cliffs using the stairwell from the Landing Cove, they will be rewarded with a campground perched on the bluffs with magnificent coastal views.
Anacapa Island, the closest Channel Island to the mainland of California, is comprised of three islets (appropriately named East, Middle, and West Anacapa Islands). Waves have eroded the volcanic island, creating towering sea cliffs, sea caves, and natural bridges, such as forty-foot-high Arch Rock -- a symbol of Anacapa and Channel Islands National Park.
Exploring East Anacapa's two-mile trail system allows visitors to experience the island's native vegetation, wildlife, and cultural history. The islands' native vegetation is recovering slowly with the help of the National Park Service's restoration efforts. This recovery, along with the removal of nonnative predators, has aided in the reestablishment of nesting land birds and seabirds. The island is one of the most important seabird nesting sites within the Channel Islands. While the steep cliffs of West Anacapa are home to the largest breeding colony of endangered California brown pelicans, all the islets of Anacapa host the largest breeding colony of western gulls in the world.
The rocky shores of Anacapa are perfect resting and breeding areas for California sea lions and harbor seals. Anacapa's rich kelp forests (ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and diving) and tidepool areas provide visitors with the opportunity to meet some of the resident ocean animals up close.
Anacapa Island has a rich human history as well. Shell midden sites indicate where Chumash people camped on the islands thousands of years ago. In addition, visitors can view the 1932 light station. The original lead-crystal Fresnel lens, which served as a beacon to ships until an automated light replaced it in 1990, is on exhibit in the East Anacapa Visitor Center.
Available sites
7 total sitesActivities & Attractions
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Birding
Year-round
Diving
Summer
Hiking
Year-round
Kayaking
Spring
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Fall
Snorkeling
Summer
Year-round
Birding
Nearby
Hiking
Nearby
Spring
Kayaking
Nearby
Summer
Diving
Nearby
Kayaking
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Snorkeling
Nearby
Fall
Kayaking
Nearby
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
Current season
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Open year round
This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.
365 Days
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Picnic Table
Restrooms
Fire Pit
Water and Hygiene
- Restrooms
Cooking and Fire
- Picnic Table
- Fire Pit
Water Access
- Beach Access
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Rates, Sites & Availability
Select check-in and check-out dates to see real-time availability for each site.
7 Sites Available
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001, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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002, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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003, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
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004, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
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005, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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007, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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Site Details
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7 Sites Available
Site
Price
⛺
001, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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002, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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003, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
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004, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
⛺
005, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
⛺
006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
⛺
007, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
Tent
No available sites
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Reviews
136 reviews
Summary
Anacapa Island offers a unique and beautiful camping experience with stunning views, especially at sunset, and opportunities for snorkeling and kayaking. While the island is home to many noisy gulls, most visitors find the experience magical and worth the minor inconveniences. The campsites are clean, and the amenities are well-maintained, making it a memorable destination for nature lovers.
Based on guest feedback
4.2
Overall rating
Based on 136 reviews
5 stars
66.2% (90)
4 stars
16.2% (22)
3 stars
2.2% (3)
2 stars
4.4% (6)
1 star
11.0% (15)
Showing 136 reviews
Verified Only
Sort by: Oldest First
Anthony L
VerifiedMay 30, 2021 Stayed at: 007, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
The sea state was rough and the boat had to cancel the trip. Received a refund from them but could not get a refund for my camping fees
Helpful
Anthony L
VerifiedMay 30, 2021 Stayed at: 007, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
The sea state was rough and the boat had to cancel the trip. Received a refund from them but could not get a refund for my camping fees
Helpful
Addyson H
VerifiedJuly 23, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
I couldn't book a ferry to go to the island.
Helpful
Addyson H
VerifiedJuly 23, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
I couldn't book a ferry to go to the island.
Helpful
Addyson H
VerifiedJuly 23, 2021 Stayed at: 001, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
I couldn't book a ferry to go to the island.
Helpful
Joshua S
VerifiedJuly 29, 2021 Stayed at: 006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
My 2 friends and I were the only ones on the island between the Island Packers shuttle departure and arrival. The birds created a very unique environment; the experience with the birds depends on when you go during their nesting season. You will never experience something as unique as this island. Also, if you do end up staying overnight, the sunset over Inspiration Point was remarkable. Unbelievably fun trip! Although, you probably don't need to stay more than a night -- maybe two. The island is less than 2 mi (sq ft) and you can walk every trail on the island in less than 2 hours. The experience with the birds and solitude make this an unpassable experience.
Helpful
Joshua S
VerifiedJuly 29, 2021 Stayed at: 006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
My 2 friends and I were the only ones on the island between the Island Packers shuttle departure and arrival. The birds created a very unique environment; the experience with the birds depends on when you go during their nesting season. You will never experience something as unique as this island. Also, if you do end up staying overnight, the sunset over Inspiration Point was remarkable. Unbelievably fun trip! Although, you probably don't need to stay more than a night -- maybe two. The island is less than 2 mi (sq ft) and you can walk every trail on the island in less than 2 hours. The experience with the birds and solitude make this an unpassable experience.
Helpful
Joshua S
VerifiedJuly 29, 2021 Stayed at: 006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
My 2 friends and I were the only ones on the island between the Island Packers shuttle departure and arrival. The birds created a very unique environment; the experience with the birds depends on when you go during their nesting season. You will never experience something as unique as this island. Also, if you do end up staying overnight, the sunset over Inspiration Point was remarkable. Unbelievably fun trip! Although, you probably don't need to stay more than a night -- maybe two. The island is less than 2 mi (sq ft) and you can walk every trail on the island in less than 2 hours. The experience with the birds and solitude make this an unpassable experience.
Helpful
Chance S
VerifiedAugust 24, 2021 Stayed at: 006, Loop: ANACAPA ISLAND AREA
The campsite is far away from where you are dropped off, but that is because of the noise from the fog horn. The campsite included bear cages and was very close to a restroom and very scenic view. Be prepared for loud birds, the lighthouse, and a fog horn that goes off about every 10 seconds. It is definitely a bit difficult to sleep on the island due to the noise. Some people were disappointed because of how many birds were on the island and how flat it was, but it is very fun for ocean sports and seeing an amazing view called inspiration point. I highly recommend bringing a tent or EZ Up because if you sleep under the stars you may get pooped on by birds.
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Location & Directions for Anacapa Island
1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001 United States
Elevation: 63 ft
Getting There
Boat transportation can be arranged with Island Packers from Ventura or Channel Islands (Oxnard) Harbors.
To park headquarters in Ventura, California: Highway 101, exit Victoria or Seaward to Ventura Harbor.
Highway access
Access to Anacapa Island is available via Highway 101, with exits for Victoria or Seaward leading to Ventura Harbor, where boat transportation can be arranged.
Near Channel Islands National Park
The closest entrance is: Anacapa Island Landing Cove
Approximate drive: 0.5 mi · 1 min
Policies & Rules
Arrival & departure
Check in time
11AM
Check out time
11AM
- Visitors must arrange boat transportation to reach Anacapa Island before making campsite reservations.
- Reservations are mandatory for camping; no walk-up camping is allowed.
- Upon arrival, check in with the ranger at designated areas and have your confirmation letter or receipt ready, as staff may not always be present.
- Campsites are located 1/4 to 1/2 mile from the boat landing, and visitors must carry their own gear.
- Access to the water is limited to the Landing Cove dock; no other beaches are accessible without a boat.
Cancellation policy
- Reservation fees are non-refundable. For campsites, cabins, lookouts, yurts, group sites, and similar stays, we charge a reservation service fee of $8.
- Standard cancellations usually have a $10 cancellation fee. Customers can generally cancel before the check-in date online.
- Late cancellation rules differ by stay type.
- Individual campsites: cancelling after 12:00am local time the day before arrival usually means a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night's fee.
- Cabins, lookouts, and yurts: cancelling less than 14 days before arrival usually means a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiting the first night's fee.
- One-night reservations: a late cancellation usually forfeits the full amount paid, up to the total original reservation cost.
- Modifications are allowed before the cut-off window, but fees depend on the change. Changing to dates completely outside the original reservation dates may trigger a $10 change fee. Extending or shortening a stay that still includes original dates usually has no change fee, though refunds may depend on timing and facility rules. Switching to the same type of campsite for the same dates usually has no change fee, but price differences are charged or refunded.
- Early departures may or may not be refunded. At certain facilities, partial refunds may be possible if staff can mark the site available for other visitors. No refund is given for a night if the early departure is requested after that day's check-out time.
- Security deposits are separate. Security deposits may be refunded to the original payment method if the facility is left in acceptable condition, as determined by the property.
Site capacity
- Each group can reserve up to 2 campsites, with a maximum of 4-6 people allowed per site.
Site types & loops
- Only tent camping is allowed; no utilities are provided. Bring low-profile tents and your own water, as there are no services.
- Off-trail hiking is prohibited, and some trails may be closed during nesting season for Western gulls.
Wildlife & food storage
- Food and trash must be stored properly in provided lockers; hard-sided containers are recommended to deter animals.
- All visitors must pack out all items they bring, including trash.
Fires & fuel
- Campfires and charcoal fires are prohibited; only gas camp stoves may be used.
Safety & rules
- Smoking is restricted to a specific area near the crane.
- Avoid contact with deer mice due to Hantavirus risk; more info is available on the park's website.
- Kayaking is risky due to changing ocean conditions; only experienced kayakers should go out and check the weather beforehand.
Local regulations
- Bringing certain items to the island is prohibited to prevent nonnative species introduction.
- Fishing is not allowed in marine reserves; a license is required for fishing elsewhere.
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Last updated: October 22, 2026
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Explore Ventura, CA
Nearby city: Oxnard, CA
Approx. 17 mi away (straight-line distance)
Elevation: 36 ft
Ventura, CA
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