RV Traveler’s Guide to Channel Islands National Park

Island Hopping Adventure Awaits!

Just off the coast of Southern California, this five-island park is packed with natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor fun you won't find anywhere else. Plan to park your RV on the mainland though. The only way to explore this park is by concessionaire or private boat.

Little-Known Facts About Channel Islands National Park

An Untouched Ecosystem – The Channel Islands are often called the "Galápagos of North America" because they’re home to over 145 species of plants and animals found nowhere else on Earth!

Island Foxes – The island fox, once nearly extinct, has made one of the fastest recoveries of any endangered species thanks to conservation efforts on the islands. You might spot one during a hike!

Ancient Island Dwellers – The Channel Islands were home to the Chumash people for thousands of years. Archaeologists discovered the oldest known human remains in North America—the Arlington Springs Man, estimated to be over 13,000 years old—on Santa Rosa Island!

Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities

Kayak into a Sea Cave – Join a guided tour and paddle through the iconic Anacapa Arch. Don't miss Painted Cave on Santa Cruz Island—the largest sea cave in California and one of the largest and deepest sea caves in the world!

Hike to Smuggler’s Cove – On Santa Cruz Island, this lesser-known hike offers amazing ocean views and a quiet beach perfect for a picnic.

Snorkel Among the Kelp Forests – At Scorpion Anchorage, dive into an underwater forest buzzing with bright fish, sea lions, and even leopard sharks!

Try Primitive Island Camping – There is currently one National Park Service-managed campground on each island. No cars or crowds here—just quiet starlit nights, ocean breezes, and a tent under the stars.

RV Camping on the Mainland

While you can't take your RV onto the islands, there are plenty of amazing campgrounds near the ferry docks at Ventura Harbor:

Ventura Beach RV Resort – Over 14 acres of RV and tent sites with full hookups, palm trees, and a bike path straight to the beach.

Emma Wood State Beach – A beachfront spot with stunning sunset views and salty air with primitive RV camping.

Faria Beach Park – Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the base of the Santa Ynez mountains with breathtaking views of the Channel Islands.

Relax and Recharge with AB Lifestyles

After a day exploring caves, hiking scenic cliffs, and watching sea lions splash around, there's no better feeling than crawling into a cozy, well-made bed. AB Lifestyles bedding is made for life on the go—with custom sizes and our exclusive NoTuck Top Sheet to make RV bed-making a breeze. Whether you're crashing on the mainland or headed home after an island adventure, we've got your comfort covered.

Start Planning Today! Channel Islands National Park is the kind of adventure you’ll never forget—and AB Lifestyles is here to help you rest up between every wild and wonderful experience.