Black Jack Volunteer Camp

Blackjack Campground was the perfect first stop on our Trans-Catalina Trail trek. After the initial stretch, it gave us a chance to really rest, refuel, and soak in the island’s beauty. The campground itself is big, spacious, and well laid out, so even when it’s busy you don’t feel cramped. On the way in, we were lucky enough to spot plenty of wildlife—bison grazing in the distance, a few hawks c... Blackjack Campground was the perfect first stop on our Trans-Catalina Trail trek. After the initial stretch, it gave us a chance to really rest, refuel, and soak in the island’s beauty. The campground itself is big, spacious, and well laid out, so even when it’s busy you don’t feel cramped. On the way in, we were lucky enough to spot plenty of wildlife—bison grazing in the distance, a few hawks circling overhead, a curious fox, and even some deer along the trail. It really set the tone for the adventure and reminded us why Catalina feels so special. By the time we reached Blackjack, it felt like a reward. The quiet, the fresh air, and the open space helped us recharge and get energized for the days ahead. If you’re hiking the TCT, I’d definitely recommend spending the night here—it’s a great balance of nature, comfort, and that feeling of being in the wild without being too far off the grid....ps got cell signal.

For being 10 miles away from Avalon (by foot) and nowhere near the ocean, the campground is quite nice. Most every spot has plenty of shade provided by a mix of pepper trees, pines, and others. There is at least three water spigots and an outdoor "shower" to rinse/cool down with. The lot toilets are clean enough, although they have an overpowering chemical smell. Unfortunately, you cannot have a... For being 10 miles away from Avalon (by foot) and nowhere near the ocean, the campground is quite nice. Most every spot has plenty of shade provided by a mix of pepper trees, pines, and others. There is at least three water spigots and an outdoor "shower" to rinse/cool down with. The lot toilets are clean enough, although they have an overpowering chemical smell. Unfortunately, you cannot have a fire at this campground.

Not worth $30 per person. Absolutely insane. Campground it’s self was nice. But there was no enforcement on paid reservations!! When we arrived after a long 16 mile day, a hiker in the camp spot we reserved and paid for. There were a few people there that didn’t pay and we’re taking up camp spots. We ended up staying in one up the hill, but we’re worried we would be in someone else campsite. F... Not worth $30 per person. Absolutely insane. Campground it’s self was nice. But there was no enforcement on paid reservations!! When we arrived after a long 16 mile day, a hiker in the camp spot we reserved and paid for. There were a few people there that didn’t pay and we’re taking up camp spots. We ended up staying in one up the hill, but we’re worried we would be in someone else campsite. For how freaking much it costs to get a campsite ($60) there should be somebody checking and enforcement of hikers paying. Not thrilled with our experience.