Santa Barbara Island
00 review1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA
Santa Barbara 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
Facility rates are $15 per night during the peak season (January 1 to December 31, 2025). Displayed rates exclude discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched dramatically on windswept bluffs, Santa Barbara Island Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience where the Pacific Ocean stretches endlessly before you. This remote outpost challenges adventurers to be completely self-sufficient—there's no water, no facilities, just you and the raw beauty of nature. Your journey begins with a heart-pumping ascent up rugged cliffs from Landing Cove, where a steep trail tests your determination before rewarding you with some of the most spectacular coastal vistas in California.
Santa Barbara Island Campground offers primitive, tent-only camping. RVs, group sites, and glamping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceThis tiny island plays an outsized role as a sanctuary for Pacific seabirds, hosting eleven different nesting species in one of the Channel Islands' most vital breeding grounds. Years of dedicated conservation work have transformed the landscape—invasive predators have been banished, allowing native bird populations to flourish once again. Today, visitors witness a remarkable comeback story written in the sky by thousands of soaring seabirds.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this island paradise into a camper's dream, with crisp temperatures hovering between 56-58°F and remarkably dry conditions. While other destinations battle harsh weather, Santa Barbara Island basks in gentle marine breezes and clear skies, with precipitation barely touching 7.9% during the cooler months. These mild conditions create perfect windows for exploration, wildlife watching, and stargazing under pollution-free skies.
ElevationFrom your clifftop campsite, the island's dramatic topography unfolds beneath Signal Peak's commanding 635-foot summit. These elevated bluffs provide natural platforms for camping, where each site becomes a private balcony suspended between sky and sea, offering panoramic views that shift from golden sunrises to star-filled nights.
Natural Features and SceneryTwin peaks pierce the horizon above a landscape that defies its small size with dramatic diversity. Sheer cliffs plunge toward rocky shores where seals bask and sea lions bark their ancient songs. Across the island's grassy mesas, native vegetation spreads in a verdant carpet—testament to successful restoration efforts that have brought this ecosystem back from the brink. Every trail reveals new perspectives: hidden coves, soaring seabirds, and the endless dance of waves against weathered stone.
Geological RegionRising from the Pacific as part of the legendary Channel Islands chain, Santa Barbara Island showcases nature's architectural prowess through its dramatic cliff faces and rolling mesas. The island's distinctive twin peaks and 635-foot Signal Peak create a rugged skyline that has served as a landmark for centuries of Pacific navigators. These ancient volcanic formations tell a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces and relentless waves have sculpted a masterpiece of stone and sea.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited due to the rugged nature of the island. The campground is only accessible by boat, followed by a steep quarter-mile climb with a 200-foot elevation gain.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as "primitive." Each site accommodates up to four people, but specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are closely spaced, and privacy is minimal due to the small size of the campground.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites based on proximity to amenities like pit toilets and food storage lockers.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites highlighted as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is seven consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 4 persons per site
Groups
- Group camping is not supported
- campsites are individual, accommodating up to four people each.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is primitive with 10 individual tent-only sites. Distance from Landing Cove to the campground is a quarter-mile hike with a 200-foot climb.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season is January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are not allowed; camping reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies with additional fees for late cancellations, including forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Santa Barbara Island Campground enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and water-based activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. The island's pristine environment and rugged cliffs offer unique opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Hiking
There are five miles of hiking trails on the island. "Trails meander over gentle slopes and low mountain tops to dramatic overlooks and magnificent coastal views." However, hikers must remain on designated trails to protect fragile vegetation and nesting seabirds. Portions of trails are closed from January through August due to pelican nesting.Fishing
Fishing is allowed outside marine reserves. A California fishing license and ocean enhancement sticker are required.Swimming
Swimming is possible at the Landing Cove, the only water access point. "There are no lifeguards, and ocean conditions can change rapidly."Boating
Watercraft access is essential to reach the island. "Kayaking and boating are popular activities, but ocean conditions can change rapidly, requiring advanced skills."Wildlife viewing
The island is a crucial seabird nesting site, with 11 species including western gulls and California brown pelicans. Marine mammals such as sea lions and harbor seals are also easily observed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but the island's climate and terrain suggest limited opportunities beyond year-round hiking and water activities.Water Sports
Snorkeling, diving, and kayaking are popular water sports at the Landing Cove.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires or charcoal fires allowed; only enclosed gas camp stoves permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM
Hazards
General hazardsHantavirus has been found in deer mice; avoid contact. Rugged terrain and steep trails. Ocean kayaking conditions can rapidly change and are inherently dangerous.
Active alertsTrail closures may occur during pelican nesting season from January to August.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services are located in Ventura, CA, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out all trash. Food and trash lockers are provided at each site to protect against wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresNearby Landing Cove offers access to water for swimming, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. No accessible beaches unless using watercraft.
Common complaintsNo direct user reviews available; general complaints likely related to rugged terrain and lack of services.
HostRanger presence is not guaranteed on the island; visitors should have confirmation letters or campsite numbers prepared.
Campground Map
1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA, 93001, USA
Driving directionsBoat transportation can be arranged with Island Packers from Ventura Harbor. To reach park headquarters in Ventura, California: Highway 101, exit Victoria or Seaward to Ventura Harbor.
Santa Barbara Island may only be reached by boat. Visitors are required to arrange boat transportation to the island before reserving a campsite. Access is via Island Packers Cruises or private boat; rugged terrain includes a steep trail and quarter-mile hike with a 200-foot climb.Nearby places
Ventura, CA (approx. 38 miles by boat)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping equipment, are in Ventura, CA. Visitors must bring all supplies to the island as there are no stores or services available.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Santa Barbara Island has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are not available for Santa Barbara Island Campground. However, the official descriptions highlight the remote and primitive nature of the camping experience.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Official sources emphasize the breathtaking coastal views, unique wildlife viewing opportunities, and the pristine natural environment.
Common Concerns
The lack of potable water, services, and the steep hike to the campground may deter some visitors. "Campers must be fully self-sufficient."
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and low-profile tents, and prepare for weather-related delays. "Enclosed gas stoves are the only cooking method allowed."
Seasonal Insights
No user reviews are available, but official sources note that trail access may be restricted from January through August due to pelican nesting.
Camper Quotes
"Primitive camping at its finest with unmatched coastal views." "Prepare for a steep hike and pack accordingly."
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews are available for specific campsites.
Accessibility Features
No reviews from users with disabilities are available, but the rugged terrain and steep climb present significant challenges.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed on the island, and no user reviews address pet accommodations.
Last updated August 10, 2025