Channel Islands National Seashore Expedition

OCT 11-15, 2026 |  Santa Cruz Island and Scorpion Canyon

Overview

Channel Islands National Seashore - Sea Kayak and Camping

Joining California Eagles on a three night campout on Santa Cruz Island and experience Channel Islands National Seashore. Explore the beaches and coves via sea kayak and trek the islands trails for a long weekend of exploration and connection. The Channel Islands are a unique archipelago off of southern California’s coast, home to abundant wildlife and serene landscapes. Thanks to our partners at the National Parks Conservation Association, this Expedition is free to CA Veterans.

Applications

Application Date Window:

Now through Oct 1

Spots Available:

12 participants

Applicants will be notified on a rolling basis.

Apply Now

At a Glance

Location:

Santa Cruz Island, Channel Islands National Park. Known as the Galapagos of N. America.

Group Size:

12 participants + Expedition Guide

Duration:

3 nights camping.

Expedition Type:

Basecamp camping with sea kayaking. Paddle to sea caves and over dense kelp forests.

Wildlife:

Spot the endemic, cat-sized Island Fox and paddle over dense kelp forests.

Expedition Highlights

The Highlights

  • Experience unique landscapes off the beaten path

  • Share adventure via kayak and hiking

  • Endemic wildlife, dolphins, whales, seal lions

  • Dark skies

  • Panoramic views

  • Island vibes

  • No crowds, no towns, no shops, a truly unique opportunity to disconnect

Itinerary

Oct 11:

  • Lodge in hotel and prep for ferry

Oct 12:

  • Ferry to Santa Cruz, easy 1-mile hike to camp

  • Kayak

  • Hike

Oct 12:

  • Kayak, Hike

Oct 13:

  • Kayak, Hike

Oct 14:

  • Depart camp and load up the ferry for the mainland.

(subject to change) 

Prerequisites & Requirements 

  • This is beginner friendly. No kayak experience necessary.

  • Familiarity with setting up a tent would be helpful.

  • All trash is packed out, strict Leave No Trace policies will be followed.

  • This will be a physically active trip, participants should be in good shape and be prepared to sleep in a tent for three nights.

  • Hiking, kayaking, daily movement will be the norm.

Equipment & Logistics 

Equipment & Logistics

  • Bring your own camping gear.

  • Ferry, hotel, campgrounds, meals, kayaks all included

  • 60 lb per pack weight limit per the ferry.

  • Sea kayaks, campgrounds, ferry, hotel, meals, provided by NPCA

Apply and Join the Channel Islands National Seashore Expedition

Apply Now