Map showing campground location near Two Harbors, California

Camper submitted image from Parsons Landing Campground

Parsons Landing Campground

Accessible only by boat and an 8-mile hike from Two Harbors, Parsons Landing Campground sits on a narrow beach at the far end of Catalina Island. The campground occupies a secluded stretch of rocky coastline with just eight sites spread along the shore, each marked by a picnic table and protected by stacked rock windbreaks.

Site 1 tucks around a natural rock wall for the most privacy, while the remaining sites extend across the beach with varying exposure to ocean winds. Each site includes a fire pit, picnic table, and food storage box—essential since aggressive birds and squirrels will chew through packs and water containers. Chemical toilets serve the campground from a central location along the access road.

Water and firewood arrive via a pre-purchased locker system, with bundles including 2.5 gallons of water, wood, and fire starter delivered to on-site lockers. Kate W. describes the setting as "a secluded beach with a rock wall on one end." The clear water offers snorkeling opportunities, though campers should secure all food items vigilantly.

Reservations are required for this remote destination. Those seeking additional island camping can explore Two Harbors Campground, located at the ferry landing point. The rocky terrain and steep surrounding trails demand proper preparation for this unique beachfront camping experience.

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Location

Private Campground

Parsons Landing Campground is located in California

Coordinates

33.47278002 N
118.54916797 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

Hike-In
Backcountry sites.
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Phone Service
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Fires

Contact

General Info

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4.5

out of 5

5 Reviews

Campers regularly cited this unique beachfront location requiring ferry and hiking access. Numerous guests pointed out excellent amenities like supply lockers and food storage, with particular praise for the secluded 8-site setting.

Jonathan G.

Ranger

Reviewed Oct. 25, 2020

Waterfront accommodations

The hike from Two Harbors is fairly flat and along a road so it's easy. We stayed two nights in June and it was great. The weather was warm but mostly overcast so perfect for camping & hiking. The campground reservation comes with water and firewood, and there are port a potties in the middle of camp on the road.

(5) View All

Luis N.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 19, 2020

Beach side campground

One of the most amazing campgrounds I’ve ever stayed at. You’re on a sandy beach with waves crashing on the shore. There’s only a handful of sites, so try to book this early. Sites have rocks stacked up as a wind shield, it really helps! You’ll also have a picnic table, food storage box, and a fire pit. Vault toilets are available. No water on site, you must bring your own. Water, firewood, and fire starter are available for purchase. You can buy them at two harbors, which is where they will give you a key for a locker that is at parsons landing which will have all those items. I believe it’s 2 gallons of water.

Kate W.

Legend

Reviewed Aug. 9, 2019

If you can go, go!

Parson's Landing is a super unique campground. I would say it's the only TRUE beach camping I've ever been able to find. You have to coordinate the ferry to Two Harbors on Catalina Island and then hike about 8 miles to the far end of the island. It's not a bad hike, just long and around the perimeter. You can plan ahead to have a bundle of wood and a gallon of water waiting for you in a locker. The campground is a secluded beach with a rock wall on one end. Site 1 is tucked around next to the wall - very cool! Site 2 is great too but a little more exposed. After that the other sites are basically spots spread out on the beach and designated by a picnic table. The beach in narrowish and rock - a lot of the sites have rock walls built up to protect the fire pit from wind. Unfortunately a dead seal had washed up on shore near site 1 and when some people tried to push it back into the ocean it released the most horrid smell ever. There's hiking around that end of the island but beware that it is extremely steep in some areas! We only did a couple miles and going down the trial/roads were scarier than going up. Also, almost stepped on a rattlesnake. I promise you though that this is a special place and a trip you will never forget! Just be prepared to rough it.

Site2

(13) View All

Mandy E.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 31, 2018

Very Remote and SO worth it

This is the final campgound on the Trans Catalina Trail and one of my favorites. Reservations are required and you'll need to purchase water and firewood in a locker since it is walk in only and trust me you won't want to try and carry it. Also be sure to utilize the bear boxes even though there aren't any bears. The birds there are relentless and will poke holes in everything including water jugs if you turn your back for even a second. They even know how to get into unlocked lockers. But the exploring and sunsets are hard to beat. Just be prepared for lots of wind and rocky ground.

SiteAll of them

Month of VisitOctober

(14) View All

Lacie G.

Traveler

Reviewed Aug. 20, 2016

Takes some work to get here but definitely worth it

A ferry ride and 7 mile hike are worth it to get to this gorgeous beach. Don't forget your snorkel! The water is so clear and full of things to see. The campground is nice and small with just 8 sites. Site #1 is the most private. There are chemical toilets, trash cans and lockers. You pay for lockers before you arrive. Each locker has 2.5 gallons of water, a bundle of wood and a fire starter. Make sure you secure your food. The squirrels and birds are ridiculous. They'll chew right through your pack to get your stuff. If you have a bear canister I'd make sure to bring it.

(5) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Parsons Landing Campground on Catalina Island?

To reach Parsons Landing Campground, you'll need to take a ferry to Two Harbors on Catalina Island. From there, it's approximately a 7-8 mile hike to the campground. The trail follows a relatively flat road, making it accessible though lengthy. This remote beach campground is situated on the far end of the island, requiring proper planning for the journey. The hike is considered moderately difficult but offers beautiful coastal views along the way.

What amenities are available at Parsons Landing Campground?

Parsons Landing offers basic but adequate amenities for primitive beach camping. Each of the 8 campsites includes a picnic table, food storage box, and fire ring. The campground has chemical toilets and trash cans centrally located. Wind shields made of stacked rocks help protect sites from coastal breezes. When you make a reservation, you'll receive access to a locker containing firewood and water, which is essential as there's no drinking water source at the campground itself.

What activities can I do near Parsons Landing on Catalina Island?

Parsons Landing offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities in its clear waters teeming with marine life. Swimming and beach lounging are popular activities on the sandy shoreline. Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Trans Catalina Trail, as Parsons Landing serves as its final point. Wildlife viewing is excellent, and while there aren't bears on the island, secure food storage is still necessary. Enjoy beachcombing, photography, and stargazing in this remote location. The surrounding coastal areas provide beautiful spots for day hikes and nature appreciation.

Do I need a permit to camp at Parsons Landing?

Yes, reservations are required to camp at Parsons Landing. The campground is limited to just 8 sites, making early booking essential, especially during peak seasons. Your reservation includes access to a locker containing water and firewood, which is crucial since the campground is walk-in only and these supplies are difficult to carry the full distance. Contact the Catalina Island Conservancy or their official reservation system to secure your permit.

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