Boat-in camping is available at 17 beach campsites spread across 9 remote locations on Southern California’s Catalina Island. All of the campsites are on the beach and only accessible by boat or kayak. The boat-in campsites are located on the leeward coast of the island, which is the same side that Avalon and Two Harbors is located on. Since there are no boat rental services on the island you will need to have your own boat to reach these campsites. Check-in is handled by a ranger that visits each campsite daily via boat.
One of the big attractions to Catalina Island is the buffalo (well, really they are bison, not buffalo) that roam the island. As you are walking around Catalina Island, you will see large hoof prints in the dirt and mud from the bison, but don’t worry they likely will steer clear of you and will not come to visit you in your tent at night.
Since the campsites are very remote you will need to pack in all of your own supplies, as well as a portable camping toilet. Campfires are not allowed at the boat-in campsites. There are no moorings at the boat-in campsites.
Catalina Island Boat-In Camping Features
| Campground Type: | Organized, Primitive |
| Number of Campsites: | 17 Campsites at 9 Locations |
| Cost: | Nightly camping fee with prior reservation are $16 for adults; $8 for children. Without reservation $20 for adult; $10 for children per person per day. |
| Use Level: | Low |
| Dogs Allowed: | No |
| Fire Rings: | None |
| Drinking Water: | None |
| Toilets: | None |
| Showers: | None |
| Trash/Dumpsters: | None |
| Hiking Access: | Yes – Hiking Trails nearby |
| Beach/Lake Access: | Yes |
| RV/Trailer Length: | N/A |
| RV/Trailer Amenities: | None |
| Cell Phone Service: | Possible – Some Carriers |
| Wifi: | None |
| Operating Season: | Open Year-round |
| Other: | Los Angeles County fire rules and Catalina Island Conservancy rules are strictly enforced. There is a coastal ranger who will make daily visits to each boat-in site. It is strongly suggested that campers come equipped with a VHF radio for medical emergency calls. |
If you encounter one of Catalina Island’s buffalo while camping or hiking, give them plenty of space. The buffalo are normally docile and do not bother with people, however they can charge at you if they feel threatened.
Getting There
| Address: | |
| Geo Coordinates: | |
| Nearest City/Town: | Two Harbors, California |
| Elevation: | 10 Feet |
| Location: | Los Angeles County, California |
| Paved Road Access: | No |
| Proximity to Stores: | |
| Directions: | Directions to each boat-in campsite will be provided with your reservations. |
Connect
| Phone: | 310.510.TENT (8368) | Facebook: | Catalina Island Conservancy Facebook Page | |
| Web: | Santa Catalina Island Company | Twitter: | Catalina Island Conservancy Twitter Feed |
| Reservations: | Santa Catalina Island Company |
When To Go
Winter – Weather on Catalina Island is pretty mild and the campgrounds are empty in the winter. Highs in the summer can exceed 90 degrees.
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Friday
04/20
10%
High 66°
/
Low 56°
Clear
Clear. Lows overnight in the mid 50s.
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Saturday
04/21
10%
High 76°
/
Low 58°
Clear
Sunny, along with a few afternoon clouds. High 76F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Sunday
04/22
0%
High 73°
/
Low 58°
Clear
Mainly sunny. High 73F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Monday
04/23
10%
High 65°
/
Low 58°
Partly Cloudy
Sunshine and clouds mixed. High around 65F. Winds SSW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Tuesday
04/24
10%
High 66°
/
Low 57°
Partly Cloudy
Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High 66F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
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Wednesday
04/25
10%
High 63°
/
Low 56°
Clear
Mainly sunny. High 63F. Winds WSW at 5 to 10 mph.
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What To Do
Hike the Trans-Catalina Trail, which is runs the entire length of the island and connects all of the campgrounds.
Fun Facts
You may be able to catch a glimpse of one of Catalina Island’s many bison. The bison were brought to Catalina for a movie shoot in the 1920’s and have been inhabiting the island ever since.
Image Credits: David McCracken