Santa Cruz Del Norte Backcountry (npsrecgovdata)

This is hands down the nicest campsite I have ever backpacked to. The view is breathtaking. Campsite one has an amazing view and campsite four has it's own beautiful privacy oak. There are no bad campsites here though. There are secure food boxes to keep out the creatures at each campsite along with a very nice picnic table and a flattened area for your tent. There are a few things to be aware of - the hike up to Del Norte campground from Prisoner's Harbor has some serious inclines. It's not *that* difficult, but it's not a casual hike, either. I wouldn't want to be stuck towing a cooler up and down those hills. Another thing to be aware of is that the pit toilet has no roof. This is pretty great in good weather (and there's plenty of privacy), but if it's raining...well, let's hope you have a poncho. Lastly, the animals (especially the foxes) are not impressed with you at all. This is really cool because you're treated as just another creature not to be feared. It also means you need to be ever vigilant about food around your campsite. Anything left unattended will be stolen by the campsite's resident fox, who patrols regularly. And she is *not* shy about going right back after you shoo her. The ravens won't give you much trouble, but they'll keep a close eye on you. The scrub jays are hilarious to watch. All in all, it is very very worth the trip and I would recommend it to any able bodied person.

This campsite is ok at best, the hike is pretty boring, the view is ok/good in some spots, all-in-all, the cost to get out here and the limitations set on the public for exploring and time doesn't make it a memorable camp out for a short trip, maybe if you have multiple days there maybe more to it, if you're coming for a day or two, save your money, it's just another arid campground with a lot of mosquitoes, not enough shade if you're unlucky enough to get a spot without a tree. Btw this was in the summer, cooler temps may be more enjoyable. Our highlight was a Fox came into camp.

One of the most beautiful places I've ever camped. Incredible sweeping views of the island and very few other camp sites! The wildlife is great, and there's a lot to see if you continue up the trail. Warnings: there's no water, so you have to bring all your water, which makes the hike up to the camp quite strenuous. There is also only a single pit toilet with a wood wall that is more unpleasant than digging your own hole.

Del Norte back country campground is located 3.5 miles from Prisoners Harbor. There is no running water and 1 pit toilet. There are 4 campsites and all sites must be reserved in advance. Campsites #3 & #4 have the most shade and are very spacious. Bear boxes are available at each campsite.

What's not to love. March - April is best.