Wonderful secluded location with a beautiful volcanic rock cliff (hence the name "Lava Wall" directly behind the campsites. There are actually two campsites here, and it is difficult to determine which is the premium site. The tide is dramatic at this location, meaning that about 40-50 feet of shoreline is prone to exposure and submersion given normal tide fluctuation. One of the campsites resides about 5-10 feet above the elevation of high tide. We didn't stick around for the high surf advisory, but instead packed up and headed back to San Pedro. There is a limited supply of flat land at this location, but most of it is shaded nicely in the afternoon. The seashore is composed of rocks varying from marble-sized to pumpkin-sized and bigger. A claw or Bruce style anchor sets best in this location. The West end of the campsite is difficult to navigate because the rocks are so big and scattered throughout. The tent sites are small patches of grass located not far from the high tide mark. There is a fire pit and a picnic table at this site, but it only appears to be for one site. No latrines, water, or electrical obviously. No navigable trails either, so you're kind of stuck here or limited to water transportation once you arrive. It is a remarkable fishing spot. Several fishing boats using several different types of techniques trolled this area at all hours during early September 2023.

Overall, most of these boat-in campsites on the North face of Catalina are essentially the same, but Lava Wall is short on land space for campers. We'd like to see the DNR cut back some of the grass/weeds on campsite #2 here to make space for a second tent or a larger tent space. Doesn't need to impact the native chapparal. We think this small amount of maintenance would result in a dramatic improvement on the experience for campers. Aside from that, one of the jewels of the West Coast are campsites like these to enjoy the natural beauty of Southern California.