Camping at Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground
Location and Accessibility
Santa Cruz Scorpion Campground is located in the Channel Islands National Park, on the eastern part of Santa Cruz Island, which is the largest of the eight Channel Islands of California. The campground is situated within a close vicinity to Scorpion Anchorage, making it accessible via boat services that typically depart from Ventura, California. Visitors must make a reservation for the boat trip with the park's concessionaire, Island Packers, which is the official boat provider to the park.
Campground Features
- Campsites: Scorpion Campground offers individual and group campsites. Individual sites are usually suitable for up to six people, while group sites can accommodate larger numbers. Each site generally includes a picnic table, food storage box, and nearby access to pit toilets.
- Environment: The campground is nestled among a grove of trees, providing some shade, with nearby scenic views of the ocean and island landscapes.
- Fire Regulations: Open fires are prohibited due to the high risk of wildfires. Visitors are permitted to use camp stoves for cooking.
Amenities
- Water: There is no potable water available on the island, so visitors must bring all the water they will need for drinking, cooking, and washing.
- Toilets: Pit toilets are available in the campground, but there are no flush toilets or showers. Visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out what they bring in, including all trash and waste.
- Food Storage: The campground provides food storage boxes to protect from wildlife, particularly the endemic Island foxes.
Activities Nearby
- Hiking: Santa Cruz Island offers many hiking trails that can be accessed from Scorpion Campground, such as the trail to Cavern Point, which provides dramatic views.
- Kayaking: Scorpion Anchorage is a popular spot for sea kayaking, with opportunities to explore sea caves and marine life. Kayak rentals and tours are available from outfitters that have a concessionaire with the National Park.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Scorpion Anchorage provide excellent spots for snorkeling and scuba diving, with chances to see a variety of sea life in the kelp forests.
Reservations and Permits
- Camping Reservations: Campsites at Scorpion Campground need to be reserved in advance, which can be done online via the Recreation.gov website or by phone. Camping is very popular, especially during the summer months, so it's advisable to book well in advance.
- Fees: There is a fee for camping, which is in addition to the cost of the boat transport to the island.
Weather and Safety
- Weather Conditions: Weather on the Channel Islands can be unpredictable, with fog and strong winds common. It's important to come prepared with proper gear to handle various weather conditions.
- Wildlife: Visitors should keep a safe distance from wildlife, especially the Island fox, and never feed animals.
Preservation and Impact
The Channel Islands National Park is a protected area, and visitors are expected to follow all rules and regulations to minimize their impact on this delicate ecosystem. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife, stay on designated trails, and leave the area as they found it to help preserve its natural beauty.
