Because the outer islands including Santa Barbara Island, Santa Rosa Island, and San Miguel Island, are located further offshore, they are often exposed to the more rugged wind and waves found in the outer waters of the Santa Barbara Channel.

The summer and fall season, (months July - October) tend to offer a chance at the best conditions for visiting these remote locations. However, good weather is never a sure thing, and windy conditions can kick up at anytime around the northern Channel Islands, so always be prepared for a multitude of conditions.

A unique coastal hiking experience is available only during a portion of the fall season on Santa Rosa Island. After September 15th, the area known as "Skunk Point" becomes available for exploration for campers (*Note, this hike is too distant from the pier to be visited by day hikers for more information on day hikes on Santa Rosa Island). Skunk Point is closed during most of the spring and summer months to protect the nesting area of a threatened species of shorebird, the snowy plover.

For shipwreck enthusiasts, a hike along Skunk Point will reveal remains of the wooden sailing ship Jane L. Stanford. The Jane L. Stanford is the largest wooden ship to wreck within the Channel Islands National Park. Over 215 feet long and 41 feet wide, the Jane L. Stanford once hauled lumber across the Pacific Ocean. In 1926 she became a fishing barge off of Los Angeles and then Santa Barbara. A steamer entering Santa Barbara rammed the JLS damaging her beyond repair. The JLS was towed to the waters near Santa Rosa where she was blown apart by six navel wrecking mines, scattering the wreckage in the area from South East Anchorage to Skunk Point.

To reach Skunk point hike about 2.5 miles from the campground along the main road (3.5 miles from the pier). Take the turn off at South East Anchorage and access the beach. Continue to hike in a south east direction crossing the rocky tidepool area. After passing the tidepools you will arrive at Skunk Point. *Skunk Point is closed to landing and hiking from March 1st to September 15th. Therefore, fall is a special time to explore this little touched expanse of beautiful beach area on Santa Rosa Island.

To archives