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Boat-In Camping
Enjoy a Truly Secluded Coastal Camping Experience
Accessible only by boat or kayak on the island's leeward shore, Catalina's boat-in campsites offer truly secluded coastal camping experiences. Unique in their location and regulations, these nine sites are all primitive, with no running water, shade structures, moorings or sanitation stations. Campers must bring their own equipment and supplies, including a portable restroom, and pack out any trash or waste. A ranger patrols each site daily. Because fires are not allowed, cooking must be done on a camp stove or in a self-contained BBQ.
Boat-in Campsites (with distances in nautical miles)
- Ripper's Cove - 8.6 from Avalon / 4 from Two Harbors
- Paradise Cove - 8.4 from Avalon / 4.25 from Two Harbors
- Lava Wall - 8.1 from Avalon / 4.5 from Two Harbors
- Gibraltar - 7.1 from Avalon / 5.5 from Two Harbors
- Cabrillo - 7 from Avalon/ 5.75 from Two Harbors
- Goat Harbor - 6.2 from Avalon / 6.4 from Two Harbors
- Italian Gardens - 5.25 from Avalon / 7.4 from Two Harbors
- Long Point Beach - 4.875 from Avalon / 7.75 from Two Harbors
- Willow Cove - 2.75 from Avalon / 9.9 from Two Harbors
Map of Catalina Boat-in Campsites.
Campground Check In
Each of the nine boat-in sites is on the leeward side of Catalina (same side as Avalon). Your camping reservation serves as your camping/hiking permit. For site verification or for any questions, please call Two Harbors Visitor Services at 310.510.4205.
Equipment Rental
Kayak rentals are available from Two Harbors Dive & Recreation Center in Two Harbors, or Descanso Beach Ocean Sports, Joe's Rent-A-Boat and Wet Spot Rentals in Avalon.
WARNING: In the event of adverse weather conditions, trails, roads, and campground may be closed. High winds could also result in ferry boat cancellations. Please check the weather before heading out on your adventure. You can call Two Harbors Visitor Services at 310.510.4205 for updates on closures.
Rates & Fees
Nightly camping fees with prior reservation are $24 per adult per night and $15 per child per night (age 2-11). Holiday rates are $24 per adult per night and $15 per child per night (age 2-11). *Weekends require a 2-night minimum and holidays a 3-night minimum. Holidays include Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. For groups of 20 or more, group rates apply. Please call 310.510.4242.
Tips
Los Angeles County fire 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.
