Anacapa Island
4.2529 reviews1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA
Anacapa Island
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation use fee for camping is $15 per night per site. Additional reservation fees are $8 online, $9 via contact center, and $3 in person.
About this campground
Perched on dramatic coastal bluffs, Anacapa Island Campground beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic island escape. This intimate primitive campground features seven exclusive tent sites, each welcoming 4-6 guests into a world where ocean horizons stretch endlessly. Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride, followed by an invigorating half-mile trek from Landing Cove—including a memorable ascent up 154 weathered stairs carved into the cliffsides. Once settled, you'll find yourself immersed in raw natural beauty, with only essential amenities: sturdy picnic tables for sunset dinners, secure food storage boxes to protect your provisions, and basic pit toilets. This is true off-grid camping where self-sufficiency reigns—remember to pack every drop of water and all supplies for your island adventure.
Anacapa Island Campground features primitive, tent-only camping. It is accessible via boat and requires a hike to reach. No RVs or glamping options are available.
Historical SignificanceAnacapa Island whispers stories of ancient peoples and maritime heritage at every turn. Sacred Chumash shell middens dot the landscape, silent testimonies to thousands of years of indigenous life on these windswept shores. Standing sentinel since 1932, the island's historic lighthouse has guided countless vessels through treacherous waters, its original Fresnel lens now treasured and displayed at the visitor center—a crystalline marvel of engineering that once cast its protective beam across dark Pacific nights.
Weather and SeasonsAnacapa's maritime climate wraps the island in an ever-changing tapestry of weather moods. Mystical fog often rolls across the bluffs at dawn, while afternoon winds carry the salt-sweet scent of the Pacific. The sun can be surprisingly intense on this exposed outpost, demanding respect and preparation. Summer transforms the island into nature's amphitheater as thousands of nesting seabirds create a symphony of calls that echo day and night—a wild soundtrack that either enchants or challenges visitors. When winter rains arrive, they work magic on the landscape, awakening dormant wildflowers and painting the usually golden-brown hills in vibrant splashes of green, purple, and gold.
ElevationRising majestically from the Pacific, Anacapa's dramatic bluffs soar to heights of 250 feet, creating a natural viewing platform that rivals any human-made observation deck. From these lofty perches, campers are treated to panoramic vistas that stretch from the California coastline to the distant Channel Islands, with the endless Pacific filling the spaces between. Each viewpoint offers a different perspective of this vertical world where land meets sea in spectacular fashion.
Natural Features and SceneryNature has sculpted Anacapa into a masterpiece of contrasts and drama. Sheer cliffs plunge into churning waters where hidden sea caves echo with the rhythmic pulse of waves. The island's volcanic origins reveal themselves in every weathered outcrop and natural bridge spanning ancient chasms. Throughout most of the year, the landscape wears a coat of sun-bleached browns and golds, but winter rains perform an annual miracle, transforming the terrain into a riotous wildflower display. Wildlife thrives in this protected sanctuary—colonies of western gulls nest along the clifftops while California sea lions bask on rocky ledges below, their barks carrying on ocean breezes.
Geological RegionBorn from ancient volcanic forces, Anacapa Island stands as a testament to the raw power of geological creation. This rugged outpost rises from sea level to 250-foot summits, its terrain carved by millennia of wind, waves, and weather into a landscape of breathtaking drama. Spectacular sea caves tunnel through the island's foundations, while natural bridges span dramatic gaps—frozen moments in stone telling the story of erosion's patient artistry. The vegetation adapts to this harsh beauty, wearing subtle browns through dry months before exploding into color when winter rains awaken the dormant seedbank hidden in volcanic soils.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the campground requires a half-mile hike and climbing 154 steps from the Landing Cove. This may not be accessible to individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeEach site accommodates 4-6 people. There are seven tent-only sites.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are exposed with no privacy features such as vegetation barriers. Limited shade is available, as noted in user reviews.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring earplugs for bird noise. Solid tents are better suited to prevent dust and debris. Sites closer to the restroom are convenient but may lack privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #7 is highly recommended for its ocean view and distance from restrooms.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity per site is 4-6 persons.
Groups
Group site option available for 4-6 people per site, but not a dedicated larger group site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSeven tent-only sites spread along bluffs with nearby restrooms and food lockers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations are available on a 6-month rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the park service.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-ups are allowed; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight one day before check-in) also forfeit the first night's camping fee.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Anacapa Island is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include hiking on the two-mile trail system, snorkeling, kayaking, diving, swimming, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Ranger-led underwater video programs are available during the summer.
Hiking
The island has a two-mile trail system leading to dramatic coastal overlooks, including Inspiration Point. Trails are short but offer spectacular views. Off-trail hiking is prohibited to protect nesting seabirds and fragile vegetation.Fishing
Fishing is allowed outside marine reserves with a California fishing license and ocean enhancement sticker. Fishing is subject to strict regulations and is prohibited within marine reserves.Swimming
Swimming is possible at the Landing Cove, but there are no lifeguards. Access to water beyond the Landing Cove is limited due to steep cliffs.Boating
Boating activities, such as kayaking, are popular. However, ocean conditions can change rapidly, requiring expertise. Kayakers must take precautions due to cliffs and docking challenges.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is a highlight, with large colonies of western gulls, California brown pelicans, and other seabirds. Marine life such as sea lions, harbor seals, and dolphins can also be seen.Cultural and Educational Programs
Summer ranger-led underwater video programs showcase sea life. The island also features historical landmarks like the 1932 lighthouse and Chumash shell middens.Winter Activities
Winter rain transforms the island's vegetation, making it greener and more colorful. However, winter-specific activities are not emphasized.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, snorkeling, and diving are notable activities on Anacapa Island.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires or charcoal allowed. Only enclosed gas stoves are permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBird nesting season (April-August) involves constant noise, strong odors, and potential health risks from deer mice carrying hantavirus. The steep cliffs and ocean conditions also pose risks.
Active alertsSeasonal trail closures during seabird nesting (April-August). No off-trail hiking allowed. Temporary closure alerts for nearby Santa Rosa Island.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 15 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Ventura, approximately 12 miles away via boat.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash or recycling facilities. Visitors must pack out all waste.
Proximity to water featuresAccess to water is limited to the Landing Cove dock; no beaches are accessible without watercraft.
Common complaintsNoise from seabirds and foghorn, lack of shade, steep hike to sites, wind blowing dust into tents.
HostRangers may not always be available. Visitors are advised to bring confirmation documents.
Campground Map
1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA
Driving directionsBoat 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.
Anacapa Island may only be reached by boat. Visitors are required to arrange boat transportation before reserving a campsite.Nearby places
Ventura (approx. 12 miles, about 45-minute boat ride)
Nearby supplies
No stores or services are available on the island. Supplies must be brought to the island from the mainland.
Camper Reviews
4.3
29 reviews
Anacapa Island is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the island's natural beauty, unique birdlife, and stunning ocean views. However, excessive bird noise, strong odors, and lack of shade are common complaints. The campground is best suited for short stays.
Review Summaries
Based on 29 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the breathtaking views, the unique opportunity to observe seabirds and marine life, and the well-maintained facilities like the vault toilets. Many appreciated the solitude...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Feedback often mentioned the constant noise from birds, strong bird droppings odors, and harsh environmental conditions such as strong winds and lack of shade. Some users also noted challenges with...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing earplugs to block bird noise, solid-walled tents to avoid wind-blown debris, and plenty of water and sunscreen. They also suggest planning trips outside the seabird...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews show that the seabird nesting season (April-August) significantly impacts the camping experience, with constant noise and odors. Off-season visits (fall and winter) are quieter and more...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The sunset is amazing, but ask yourself whether it’s worth the noise and smell." - Helio F. "Be prepared for loud birds, the lighthouse, and a fog horn that goes off about every 10 seconds." -...
Based on 29 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is noted for its excellent ocean views and distance from the restroom, making it a preferred choice. Site #6 also received positive mentions for its scenic location.
Based on 29 reviewsAccessibility Features
Limited accessibility due to the half-mile hike and 154-step climb from the Landing Cove to the campground.
Based on 29 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed on the island, as stated in park rules.
Based on 29 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025