China Camp State Park

Bathed in the golden light of San Pablo Bay, China Camp State Park Campground offers a balance of fascinating history, natural splendor, and serene solitude, appealing especially to tent campers and hiking enthusiasts. Tucked within oak and madrone woodlands, the walk-in campsites of Back Ranch Meadows provide a peaceful retreat, surrounded by lush vegetation and occasional sightings of local wildlife like deer and raccoons.

The campground features 30 tent-only sites and a group campsite, each equipped with fire pits, food lockers, and picnic tables, while clean restrooms and drinking water are within convenient reach. However, campers should prepare for a short hike (50 to 300 yards) from the parking lot to the sites, with carts available for transporting gear. The lack of electrical hookups ensures a tranquil, undisturbed outdoor experience.

Located just four miles east of San Rafael, the park invites exploration of its 15 miles of multi-use trails, where you can traverse oak woodlands, tidal marshes, and scenic ridges with sweeping views of the bay. Proximity to China Camp Village—an authentic 19th-century Chinese shrimp-fishing settlement—adds a cultural dimension to your stay, with opportunities to learn about local history at the village museum. Nearby, family-friendly beaches offer kayaking, swimming, and picnicking, making this campground an ideal base for weekend getaways or extended outdoor escapes.