Camp at Del Norte Backcountry Campground, Santa Cruz Island, California

Add to My List Check Off

Del Norte is currently the only backcountry campground on Santa Cruz Island. It is nestled in a shaded oak grove and provides scenic views of the pristine coastline along the island. To reach this backcountry site, visitors will backpack along a historic ranch road/trail through a series of canyons and ridges, to a vista about 700 feet above sea level. This moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub plant communities. A section of the trail meanders through thick stands of introduced fennel, a species targeted for removal in future restoration efforts planned by the park. The National Park Service opened this backcountry site in recognition of its rare wilderness values. As you explore these wild areas, please take the responsibility to help us protect and preserve these delicate natural resources for future generations. The following information will help you enjoy your visit while leaving the smallest impact on the island. WARNING: While backcountry camping is an incredible experience, it is not for the inexperienced backpacker. Due to difficult weather, rugged terrain, and off-trail hiking, backcountry camping is an arduous endeavor and should be undertaken only by experienced, well-conditioned backpackers. The Del Norte campground has four primitive campsites (four persons per site) and users must camp within these designated sites. A picnic table and pit-style toilet are provided (campers must bring their own toilet paper). Visitors are encouraged to pack as light as possible (backpacking style) as they will need to carry all of their gear, food, and water to the campsite. Water is not available. However, during winter and early spring, depending on rainfall for the year, stream water might be available near Prisoners Harbor at the mouth of Cañada del Puerto and in Cañada del Agua and Cañada del Muro. See the map in the PDF file for canyon locations. All water must be treated with iodine, a filter, or by boiling before any use. No fires (including charcoal) are permitted. Only enclosed camp stoves are allowed. Campers must pack out their own trash; trash containers are not provided. Due to scavenging animals (including birds), campers are required to store all food and trash in animal- and bird-proof containers. National Park Service food storage boxes are provided at campsites, but coolers, plastic Rubber Maid-type boxes, backpacking-style bear cannisters or other types of containers with sealing lids may be used as well.

Write a Review

No Ratings Yet

Flag as inappropriate ›