Oxnard

Oxnard, California, United States

Make Oxnard your basecamp to your next camping adventure to the Channel Islands National Park. The park is made up of five picturesque islands that are often referred to as the Galapagos of North America. The untouched landscape is surrounded by the Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary, which has preserved a breathtaking underwater world full of sea creatures.

It’s always a good idea to come prepared when hiking or camping– whether that’s at one of Channel Islands’ campground sites or another one of your favorite camping spots. Check out our Camping Checklist!!

2101 Mandalay Beach Rd
Oxnard, CA

Make Oxnard your basecamp to Channel Islands National Park. Check out our “Plan Your Visit” page to make Oxnard your basecamp for adventure.

3600 Harbor Blvd
Oxnard, CA

Island Packers is the official boat concessionaire to the Channel Islands National Park and the only operator allowed to land their boats. It is imperative that you arrive early so your gear can be loaded onto the boat. Also, each island may have different restrictions on potable water or campfires.

Santa Barbara County, CA

Camping at Channel Islands National Park is only allowed on 2 Islands. One of them being Santa Cruz Island. Santa Cruz Island is home to the Scorpion Canyon Campground, which is an easy walk from the pier and is shielded from harsh ocean winds. The park is open 24 hours a day. There is no entrance fee.

Ventura County, CA

Anacapa Island is the closest Channel Island to the mainland and encompasses three islets, which are easily remembered as East, Middle and West Anacapa Islands. The light station has served as a beacon for ships for nearly a century, and its original lead-crystal Fresnel lens is still available to view at the station.

3600 Harbor Blvd
Oxnard, CA

Rent a kayak or snorkel to explore Anacapa’s dense and thriving kelp forests and tide pools. For campers who want to bring kayaks with them, you can rent them from Channel Islands Kayak Center.

From flat to rugged trails, Santa Cruz Island has hikes for all skill levels. Hike across Anacapa Island to Inspiration point and the light tower. Make sure to bring your hiking boots and some water to stay hydrated.

Channel Islands National Marine Sanctuary

California, United States

Grab some snorkeling gear and experience the marine sanctuary in a different way. Santa Barbara, Anacapa and the eastern side of Santa Cruz Islands provide great access to sea caves and kelp forests.

Ventura County, CA

The Channel Islands Harbor, located in Oxnard, is the gateway to ultimate stargazing experience at Channel Islands National Park.

Are you ready to see stunning ocean views, jutting rock cliffs, and wildlife that you can't find anywhere else in the world? Oxnard visitors can take a quick trip to Channel Islands National Park, located just eleven miles off the coast from Oxnard. World-class adventure right in our backyard.