National Park · California
Channel Islands National Park
Channel Islands National Park encompasses five remarkable islands and their ocean environment, preserving and protecting a wealth of natural and cultural resources. Isolation over thousands of years has created unique animals, plants, and archeological resources found nowhere else on Earth and helped preserve a place where visitors can experience coastal southern California as it once was.
Things to do
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Boating
- Motorized Boating
- Sailing
- Boat Tour
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Group Camping
- Compass and GPS
- Orienteering
- Fishing
- Saltwater Fishing
- Food
- Picnicking
- Guided Tours
- Self-Guided Tours - Walking
- Boat Tour
- Hiking
- Backcountry Hiking
- Front-Country Hiking
- Off-Trail Permitted Hiking
- Paddling
Weather & when to go
In general, the islands have a Mediterranean climate year-round. Temperatures are relatively stable, with highs averaging in the mid-60s (°F) and lows in the low-50s. However, there are seasonal differences that visitors should take into consideration when visiting the park. In addition, visitors also should be aware that ocean and weather conditions vary considerably from day-to-day and island-to-island. For more information visit: http://www.nps.gov/chis/planyourvisit/weather.htm
Operating hours
Channel Islands National Park
The park is open 24 hours a day. Services and facilities have separate hours. Please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
Campgrounds
Anacapa Island Campground
Scorpion Canyon Campground
Del Norte Backcountry Campground
Water Canyon Campground
Santa Rosa Island Backcountry Beach Camping
San Miguel Island Campground
Santa Barbara Island Campground
Prisoners Harbor Campground
FAQ
- Is Channel Islands National Park free to visit?
- Channel Islands National Park does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Channel Islands National Park?
- The park is open 24 hours a day. Services and facilities have separate hours. Please see descriptions of those facilities elsewhere.
- Do I need a reservation for Channel Islands National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Channel Islands National Park. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
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