Santa Cruz Island – Prisoners Harbor

Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island in the Channel Islands can be visited as a day trip or an overnight camping stop. There is a small campground, Del Norte Backcountry Camp, 3.5 miles inland from the pier at Prisoners Harbor where four groups of up to four people each can camp. Trails lead to another beach at Chinese Harbor and continue east to the main landing on the island at Scorpion Anchorage. Hiking, backpacking, and camping are the top reasons for choosing Prisoners Harbor. West of the Prisoners Harbor landing is property that is owned by The Nature Conservancy and makes up 75 percent of the island. Island visitors are not allowed to leave national park property unless they already have a hiking permit from the Conservancy. If you plan to camp on Santa Cruz Island be sure to reserve the campground well in advance. Access to both of the landings on Santa Cruz Island are through Island Packers Cruises from their Ventura Harbor dock.

Address

1691 Spinaker Dr
Ventura, CA 93001

Phone

(805) 658-5730

Park Name

Channel Islands National Park

Owner

National Park

Pet Details

Pets are not allowed on the island

Fees

Fee for boat trip, camping

Activities

Hiking, Birdwatching, Camping, Kayaking, Swimming, Snorkeling, Scuba Diving, Backpacking

Amenities

Trails, Restrooms, Pier

Links

Tide Chart
Water Temps