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#8 on this list
Channel Islands National Park
California
Gray whale migration passes; wildflowers cover the islands.
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#9 on this list
Okefenokee Swamp
Georgia
Alligators active, bugs still light, blackwater paddling at its best.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Channel Islands National Park | Okefenokee Swamp |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Ventura & Santa Barbara Counties, California | Southeastern Georgia |
| Primary Access | Concessionaire boat from Ventura or Oxnard | — |
| March Temps | Highs 60-65°F, lows 45-50°F | — |
| Campground Water | Potable on Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa only | — |
| Key Wildlife | Island fox, gray whales, harbor seals, scrub jays | — |
| Island Chain | Five distinct protected islands in park boundary | — |
| Primary Gateways | — | Folkston (East) and Fargo (West) |
| Terrain | — | Blackwater marsh, peat beds, and cypress swamp |
| March Temperatures | — | Highs 70-75°F, Lows 45-52°F |
| Camping Style | — | Chickee platforms and upland hammock islands |
| Permit Requirement | — | Required for all backcountry overnight stays |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Channel Islands National Park
- Vibrant yellow giant coreopsis blooms blanket sea cliffs in early spring
- High odds of sighting northbound migrating gray whales from ferry or shore
- Backcountry trails remain sparsely populated compared to mainland coastlines
- Outstanding sea cave kayaking and cliffside marine scenery
- High spring winds can cancel ferry crossings and strand campers
- Three of the five islands have zero potable water sources
- Rough channel crossings frequently cause severe motion sickness
Okefenokee Swamp
- Minimal biting insects before the late-spring hatch begins
- Peak alligator basking activity along open canal banks
- Exceptional solitude with strict wilderness campsite limits
- World-class dark skies at Stephen C. Foster State Park
- Backcountry chickee permits sell out months ahead for March
- Open water prairies present brutal headwinds during spring fronts
- Water levels can fluctuate and cause grounded boats in dry years
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