Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry

Beautiful location with views of the Santa Barbara Channel. Each site had a picnic table, a food locker and an "engineered" flat spot to pitch your tent. Site #4 is under a low hanging oak tree. Site #3 had a more open oak tree, whereas sites #1 and #2 were open air. All 4 sites were nice but closer together than I expected. Each site is reservable for up to 4 people, but the engineered "tent-pitch area" is probably too small for a larger tent that would comfortably fit 4 people (perfect for a 2 person tent though) -- the surrounding ground is gently sloping. One pit toilet is shared by the 4 sites and was sufficient but a little smelly with a wooden floor. Hiked to Scorpion Campground 9.5 miles from Del Norte Camp and loved the trip!

All sites were reserved but we were the only ones that actually showed up for the night. The view was amazing, but the wind was intense. Stake your tent or it will blow over. There is no water at the site so carry your own. There are a lot of up and down sections getting to the site. There are some emergency water jugs, but they were all empty when we got there. Expect to only have the water you carry.

We loved Del Norte campground. We did have a hard time finding out which campsite were which before we went. Number 1 has the best view as does number 2. 3 & 4 are back in the trees with more privacy. You can't do wrong with any spot. The outhouse is really ripe but it had toilet paper included. If I didn't live in Alaska I would go out to Santa Cruz all the time. It's an incredible trip. We hiked from Prisoners harbor to Del Norte, camped then continued to Scorpion for the second night of camping.

My first night on the island I stayed at Scorpion Anchorage, which had a lovely campsite with nice flat sites under the trees and access to drinking water in the campsite. Then I hiked the long trek to the Del Norte Backcountry sites, which were amazing campsites with absolutely majestic views. I was in campsite 4 which is nestled under a couple very twisty trees- super cool and fantasy-like. Definitely recommend camping in some capacity if you visit Santa Cruz Island!

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?

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!

Gorgeous view from the campsite! Only 4 spots. Sites 3 and 4 have shade. Sites 1 and 2 are in direct sunlight. The drop toilet has toilet paper. Make sure you pack enough water - there is no water here. It's a steep climb to get here, and you'll not only need water for this night and breakfast, but for the long hike to Scorpion the following day (if you plan on backpacking there). We enjoyed our overnight here!

Great view and good vibes! We loved hiking across the island from Prisioner’s to Scorpion. Del Norte backcountry campground was awesome!

Gorgeous campground but don’t underestimate the climb, especially carrying the water required. For Pelican Bay & Del Norte the first day, then the trek to Scorpion the next, I took 8L of water total and it was just barely enough for one person. Pit bathrooms were well cared for with TP and privacy. Little wind mid-October. Trek to Scorpion started easy but once the inclines start it becomes a long, challenging day in mid-sun. Very rewarding overall.

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.