Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park Camping
in February

Booking Scorpion Canyon Campground — Channel Islands National Park in February

Texas state parks open reservations exactly 5 months in advance at 8 a.m. Central — so for a February trip, the booking window opens in September. Popular weekends can disappear within minutes of the window opening. If your dates are already full, check the booking system directly for cancellations, or book a cabin or vacation rental nearby.

What to Expect in February

Mild and uncrowded, with wildflowers starting late in the month. Easy to reserve.

Park Highlights

• ✓Reached only by the Island Packers ferry from Ventura — no vehicles, ever
• ✓About a mile uphill hike from the pier to the campground, carrying all your gear
• ✓Close to Scorpion Anchorage's sea caves, kayaking, and snorkeling
• ✓Home to the endemic island fox, found only on the Channel Islands
• ✓Primitive, quiet canyon setting in island chaparral
• ✓Historic Scorpion Ranch buildings near the landing

Tips

• →Book your Island Packers ferry ticket separately from your campsite — you need both, and the boat has limited seats
• →Plan for a roughly mile-long uphill hike from the pier to camp, carrying in all food, water, and gear
• →Pack out everything you pack in — there is no trash service on the island
• →Check the ferry schedule and cancellation policy before committing to dates; winter crossings are the most weather-dependent