Pros & cons
PROS
- Potable water via spigots in camp
- Short walk to beaches, sea caves, and view hikes
- Shaded, wind-sheltered sites
CONS
- No campfires or showers
- Pack-in/pack-out and a 0.5–1 mile carry from the pier
Overview
The upper loop of Scorpion Canyon Campground is a distinct camping area on Santa Cruz Island, reached on foot from Scorpion Anchorage. The upper loop contains three individual sites and six group sites, farther up the valley from the lower loop.
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
34.0466, -119.5673Tips for Upper Scorpion Campground
- 01Reserve both the campground and your boat seats well in advance.
- 02Pack light and plan to carry gear 0.5–1 mile from the pier.
- 03Bring extra water containers to fill at camp spigots.
- 04Use the food lockers—foxes are bold and active, especially at night.
- 05Double-check which mainland harbor your boat departs from before you go.
Amenities
Near Upper Scorpion Campground
All places →All trails →
0.3 mi awayCavern Point LoopShort bluff-top loop from Scorpion Ranch with huge ocean views and a steep startModerate · 2 mi · 1.3 hr
0.3 mi awayLower Scorpion CampgroundTent-only island basecamp with beach access and resident foxesTrailhead · Restroom
0.4 mi awayChannel Islands Adventure CompanyGuided sea-cave kayaking at Scorpion with expert, eco-minded guidesRestroom · Campground
0.5 mi awayScorpion AdobeRanch-era adobe steps from Scorpion Anchorage with island historyRestroom · Exhibit
0.5 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
0.5 mi awayScorpion RanchHistoric ranch hub for hikes, kelp snorkeling, and sea cave kayakingTrailhead · Restroom
0.6 mi awayMontañon Ridge TrailA strenuous, exposed loop to Montañon Ridge with sweeping island and ocean viewsChallenging · 10 mi · 6.5 hr
0.7 mi awayScorpion Anchorage to Cavern PointA short coastal loop from Scorpion Anchorage to Cavern PointEasy · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
