Pros & cons
PROS
- Potable water spigots and clean vault toilets
- Short walk to beach and trailheads
- Regular island fox sightings around camp
CONS
- Carry all gear 0.5–1 mile from the pier
- No trash service or showers; bring everything you need
- Foxes will raid unattended food and packs
Overview
The lower loop of Scorpion Canyon Campground is a distinct camping area on Santa Cruz Island, reached on foot from Scorpion Anchorage. The lower loop contains 22 individual sites and is the first campground loop reached from the landing.
Camping and access
Reserve a campsite and boat transportation before travelling. Carry your equipment from the landing and bring food, layers and all other supplies. The campground provides picnic tables, food storage boxes, toilets and limited potable water. There are no shops, showers or trash collection. Pack out all waste, conserve water, and secure food against island foxes and ravens.
Exploring from camp
Scorpion Anchorage, the historic ranch area and the island trail network are nearby. Stay on established paths and plan walks around your return boat. Wind, sun and cool evenings are common; tent camping here requires preparation.
Where it is
34.0485, -119.5619Tips for Lower Scorpion Campground
- 01Pack like a backpacker; you’ll carry everything 0.5–1 mile from the pier.
- 02Use the food lockers and never leave packs unattended—foxes are quick.
- 03Bring collapsible water containers to haul from spigots; no dishwashing at taps.
- 04Download the NPS app for offline maps and info before you leave the mainland.
- 05Pitch a low‑profile tent and bring extra guylines for windy nights.
Amenities
Near Lower Scorpion Campground
All places →All trails →
0.1 mi awayCavern Point LoopShort bluff-top loop from Scorpion Ranch with huge ocean views and a steep startModerate · 2 mi · 1.3 hr
0.1 mi awayChannel Islands Adventure CompanyGuided sea-cave kayaking at Scorpion with expert, eco-minded guidesRestroom · Campground
0.2 mi awayScorpion AdobeRanch-era adobe steps from Scorpion Anchorage with island historyRestroom · Exhibit
0.2 mi awayPotato Harbor TrailA moderate 5.2-mile coastal out-and-back from Scorpion Anchorage to a clifftop view of Potato HarborModerate · 5.2 mi · 2.8 hr
0.2 mi awayScorpion RanchHistoric ranch hub for hikes, kelp snorkeling, and sea cave kayakingTrailhead · Restroom
0.3 mi awayMontañon Ridge TrailA strenuous, exposed loop to Montañon Ridge with sweeping island and ocean viewsChallenging · 10 mi · 6.5 hr
0.3 mi awayUpper Scorpion CampgroundSheltered island basecamp with water spigots, beach access, and fox cameosTrailhead · Restroom
0.3 mi awayScorpion Anchorage to Cavern PointA short coastal loop from Scorpion Anchorage to Cavern PointEasy · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
