Camping in China Camp State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next China Camp State Park adventure.

98% (21 reviews)

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Stories from the community

Emma Forman

4 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sleep Up High In A Redwood Tree-net

Sleeping up in the trees was so much fun! Louis was super friendly and helpful. The net felt very secure. Heads up for light sleepers - if anyone gets up in the night the whole net moves, so be prepared for that.

Britt

5 days ago

2 nights at Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

This place is amazing!!! We stayed in the apartment and had an awesome view of the ocean although it’s mostly just clouds but it’s beautiful! Especially during sunset. The whole apartment was super clean and nice, and had an amazing kitchen with all of the essentials for cooking. She also gave us 4 eggs from the chickens on the farms, as well as a fire starting kit to make a bonfire right outside of the apartment. The outdoor area is super nice with a hot tub, amazing view, seating area and fire pit. Would definitely recommend this place!!!! Sana was also super helpful and responsive.

Weekend Trip to Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

This is such a spectacular gem! The view was incredible, the hosts were warm and friendly, and the whole tent setup was well thought-out and comfortable. Everything was clean, from the bathrooms to the sundeck, and the mattress was top-notch. We will definitely be back.

Weekend Trip to The Mojo River Spot in the redwoods

This place is magical. I loved the mix of sunand trees on the property in addition to the access to the river. Joelle is an amazing host and very responsive. I look forward to returning soon. The fellow campers we delightful.

Weekend Trip to The Mojo River Spot in the redwoods

Awesome spot for dog and kid friendly tent camping along the Russian River!

Weekend Trip to Kings Mountain Camp w/ ocean views

We absolutely adored our stay at Kings Mountain Fancy Camp. The property is a true oasis including incredible views/scenery and offers complete serenity. The tent itself is equipped with everything needed for a comfortable stay and every single little detail has been considered to make this a true luxury glamping experience. The hosts, William & Sana, welcomed us like family and we hope to return again soon!

1 night at Zen Teahouse Studio in the forest

Loved the space! Very clean and cozy and has amazing views.

2 nights at Blackberry Farm

The Blackberry Farm is a very nice place to stay. It is quiet, beautiful and a great location, walking distance to Bolinas. Best for tent camping, but we were just fine sleeping in our van. The facilities are very nice, exceeding our expectations. The host is friendly and helpful. We would love to stay here again.

2 nights at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Glamping

We had a fun stay at Sugarloaf. The tent was nice - but no screen on the door flap. The fans were a great addition inside to keep air circulating. The view of the meadow and stars was phenomenal. Quail, deer and jackrabbits spotted on our evening walks.

2 nights at Estero San Antonio Wonderland

Enjoyed a peaceful getaway at the Owl’s Nest site. Loved the beautiful property and views of rolling hills, and the sound of sheep and birds throughout the day. Having access to farm fresh eggs and meats was fantastic too! Minimized our need to pack and buy more food offsite. Owl’s Nest was a great spot with a table and fire ring, and the eco-friendly pit toilet nearby was greatly appreciated. All the sites are really great set ups and being next to the Estero is really lovely. It’s also close to some great spots to visit as well, including the beach! We’ll be back!

Weekend Trip to Rancho Laslendini

Nice site overlooking the orchard. I would highly recommend for anyone looking to get up to the Russian River area

1 night at Rancho Laslendini

We loved our stay. It was extremely peaceful and serene. We saw deer and our cats loved the bird watching. We appreciate the explicit directions. We would love to come again.

Vitor Reis

2 weeks ago

1 night at Canyon Creek Resort

I made a mistake with my reservation, but the staff were very friendly and efficient and we resolved it in the best possible way. Wonderful place, I highly recommend it!

Weekend Trip to The Ranch at Cross Road

Clear signage and communication. Plenty of space and great amenities of having a bathroom and picnic table

Weekend Trip to Slide Ranch Campsites

We had a great time. The campgrounds were clean and the dome is nice. Check out the tide pools at low tide. There are plenty of critters and anemones!

Weekend Trip to Whaleback Ridge Cabins & Camp

Quiet little spot in the woods with sweet resident dogs to visit.

Weekend Trip to Bear Gulch Hide Out

Art's camp was incredible. Art gave us detailed instructions on how to find the property, and guided us to the campsites. He responded to our questions and delays quickly and made us feel extremely welcome. We stayed at the Oak Grove campsite and also the Ridge campsite, both had a great view of the sunset, and felt very private. Highly recommend.

Weekend Trip to The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

We stayed in campsite 4 which was set up on the hill above the other campsites. This provided a wonderful sense of privacy and solitude. We had no trouble getting our small truck and tear drop trailer up the hill, but at first it looked a little daunting. From site 4, the outhouses are a bit of a walk, so if you need to sit down, try to plan ahead. There is a wonderful, natural living room under the trees that provided shelter from the sun and a chance to commune with nature. We very much enjoyed our stay and look forward to a return visit.

Weekend Trip to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Glamping

This campsite is a great option to transition into real camping. Comes with great amenities and the volunteers at the visitor center are wonderful. I would like to note that the glamping sites feel pretty close to others so it doesn’t feel as private as I’d like.

Weekend Trip to Lobitos Creek

We absolutely LOVED this place. Magnificent views, private and spacious. We wish we could have stayed longer. We'll have to come back.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in China Camp State Park

98%

(21)

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

32 sites In China Camp State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near China Camp State Park

99%

(1691)

Finley Camp

14 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Bodega Bay, CA

Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco. All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site. We have beef available for purchase from calves raised exclusively on our ranch. This beef is 100% grass fed and finished and never given grain of any kind. We have various cuts available such as steaks, ground, roasts, ribs, or other various specialty cuts. All beef is cut and wrapped by a USDA certified butcher. It is raised in an organic manner from cows that freely roam on the pastures of the coastal hills we call home. For further information or for a price sheet, please inquire with the camp host. Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle. Also be sure to check out our orchard tours. The apples ripen from Late July thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.

84%

(109)

#2 HMB Highway Overnight Rest Stop

3 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Half Moon Bay, CA

WELCOME PLEASE READ! Overnight parking and Rest Stop on South Highway One. ***Not zoned for big groups, meet ups, celebrations or parties*** 1-4 persons One vehicle per booking. Single car, trucks, campers vans or motorcycles are welcome. NO Towable Trailers or RVs. Gravel road. Follow directions given at booking, no signage is allowed on highway. Parking SITE IS MARKED ON TABLE TOP. ONE picnic table, a parking spot and a tent area. Site #1, 2 and 3. Site #1 and 3 are next to open grass area. Site #2 is more private and a favorite of camper vans or Inside sleeping. Private gravel road into parking area and grounds for overnight tent. Port-a potty, water hose and garbage in same area. No Charcoal stoves, Okay to use ‘PROPANE Bar-B-Que’ on gravel only. NO OPEN FIRE PITS allowed. Walk to beach bluffs 10 minutes west. Walk to town 10 minutes north. An abundance of seasonal wildflowers and wild berries year round. Observe rare. Species of birds. Next to FARM horses and chickens. Ocean may be loud. Highway may be heard. No pets please. Noise curfew is sundown.

95%

(950)

The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Valley Ford, CA

The Meadow Grove campsites are located near the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad bed on a family owned working ranch in coastal Northern California. The camp sites are nestled in a pasture and grove of mixed Eucalyptus, willow and cypress trees. The sites are perfect for tents or camper vans, or small trailers. [When we open in the spring, the grass can be 'slippery' and it is recommended you have 4WD. Around mid-June it is dried out enough for 2WD access to all sites] there are no hook-ups for RVs . Specifics about these campsites are: They each come with a picnic table. The grounds are a working ranch, so there is variations of the soil- some lumps and bumps and general natural state of a pasture v. a groomed lawn. Site #1, #2, #3, and #4 have the most level areas for parking and tent-ing. Up until mid-June, we recommend #1 for 2WD access. Campervans that do not have 4WD may have trouble accessing other sites. Please remember this when you book! *Campers who "change sites" without written approval by the host will be charged double!* There is a composting camp toilet, we do not have running water at the campground. The ranch itself is 300 acres of rolling hills pasture, with hilltop views of the Estero Americano valley. The Meadow Grove is home to many varieties of raptors and other birds-providing excellent bird watching. Seasonally there are blackberries to fill your containers, and some hiking. We are mere minutes from the quaint towns of Valley Ford, Tomales, and Dillon Beach, and a short drive from Bodega, Bodega Bay or Marshall, Pt. Reyes Station and Inverness. Nearby attractions include: Sonoma Coast beaches, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, coastal hiking trails, local farm-to-table eateries. Inland attractions include: redwoods, wine tasting, Russian River activities and so much more. The ranch borders Hwy 1, so there is some degree of road noise. Traffic usually dies down mid afternoon, and isn't too much of a disturbance. Virtually all traffic on our stretch of road is daytime traffic. There can be however, some heavy weekend traffic during the day with car clubs and motorcycle riders enjoying the coastal highway. *The Friendly Gray Cat's name is Boots!*

The Farmacy Family Farm

1 site · RV1 acre · Santa Rosa, CA

Looking for a place to park your camper van or cabover camper for a night or two? We have a great spot. Our Farm is about 1 mile from the city of Santa Rosa. It's a family farm with fruit orchards, honeybees and two feral cats that don't know they are feral! It is fenced, Camera'd and gated, and we don't allow pets. You'll have to have a rig that is self-contained as we don't have a guest bathroom for the spot and generators and fires aren't allowed. Our spot would be great for folks passing through, it's not set up for long periods of hanging out outside your rig. However, we do include a tour of the orchard and will share most fruits that are in season.

from

$40

/ night

95%

(76)

Slide Ranch Campsites

19 sites · Tents134 acres · Muir Beach, CA

Slide Ranch is a nonprofit organization established in 1970, becoming one of the first Park Partners in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The tent-only campsite area is 1/4 mile hike (about 10 minutes, mostly-flat) from the parking lot and is not accessible by vehicle. Campers must park in the visitor parking lot and hike into the campsite area. We provide a limited number of wheelbarrows to help transport your personal items to the area. Campers are not permitted to sleep in their cars, vans, or campers in the parking lot. Minors aged 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult; no drop offs or pick ups permitted. No pets allowed; service animals are permitted. We do not have showering facilities or flush toilets. A composting toilet is at the campsite and Porta-potties are available around the property. Soap is provided for hand washing. Water in all Slide Ranch taps is potable for refilling water bottles/jugs. There is no running water at the campsite but there will be a limited number containers of water for use in hand washing, dish washing, and limited for drinking. Slide Ranch does not have any concessions on site. Please plan to bring any snacks or picnic items you’d like to enjoy while enjoying the ranch. Per GGNRA regulations, campfires and open flames of any kind are not allowed outdoors at the campsite. Portable camp stoves and BBQs are strictly prohibited. Cooking is only allowed on the provided propane stove located inside the Dome. Please bring whatever items you need to prepare and enjoy your meals. Slide Ranch is located on the Marin coast, on land that has a rich history in connecting people to food. The Coast Miwok once fished and foraged for food at this site, and in the late 19th century Portuguese dairy farmers purchased the land and produced milk and butter for residents of San Francisco. In 1969, 134 acres of this fertile coastline were rescued from commercial development and purchased by the Nature Conservancy. Slide Ranch offers camping to fund summer camp scholarships and other programs throughout the year.

97%

(583)

The Ranch at Cross Road

12 sites · RVs, Tents84 acres · Livermore, CA

Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 10 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."

97%

(3431)

Salmon Creek Ranch

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Bodega Bay, CA

Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.

98%

(452)

Blackberry Farm

6 sites · Lodging, Tents6 acres · Bolinas, CA

Blackberry Farm sits on the western side of Mount Tamalpais, tucked in the Gospel Flat area of Bolinas. The family farm and residence were established during the late 1970s on the site of the historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch. The original farmhouse dates back to the late 19th century and survived the great 1906 earthquake. Today, the 7-acre farm is being restored to sustainably support fruit orchards, cottage flower and kitchen gardens, honey bees, a boisterous flock of chickens, and naughty shetland sheep. Our self-serve farmstand attached to our barn has seasonal flowers, organic eggs, heirloom fruit, and local goods from the farm. Our property is the perfect rustic getaway for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll be surrounded by farm/ranch life: chickens clucking, roosters crowing, bees buzzing, and sheep bleating. We also have active nighttime wildlife: coyotes howling, raccoons foraging, owls hooting, etc. Bring earplugs if nature sounds are too much for you. We offer 4 walk-in tent sites that allow you to immerse yourself in nature. We welcome well-behaved pets ON LEASH that won’t harass the chickens, cats, sheep, other campers, or residents. Unruly pets and their campers will be asked to leave. No refund. Limit: 1 dog per site. Pitch your tent in a meadow shared by: Campsite 1 - left side of the meadow, closest to the common area and hot tub. Campsite 2 - middle of the meadow, closest to our fenced apiary and bee garden. Campsite 3 - right side of the meadow, near the orchard. (sites 1 and 3 are next to each other) Campsite 4 - front of the pasture, closest to the parking area (best for car/van campers wanting space to lounge near their parked vehicle.) Multiple sites may be booked for group camping. Sites 1 and 3 are next to each other under the Cypress Trees. Add site 2 if you would like the entire back half of the campground. Add site 4 if you'd like to have a maximum number of 16 total campers and 2 tents/per site. The common area has an outdoor shower, hot tub, covered bbq/cook area, tented (weather-protected) hangout space, and a place to stash your surfboard. The pizza oven is not available for campground use. Redwood Grove hangout areas have seating and tree swings. Please pack out your trash. We offer a recycling bin for glass bottles, cans, and clean paper. Parking is 100 yds or less from the campsites. We have a large wheelbarrow to help you cart your camping gear across the pasture to your campsite. No driving onto or parking in the meadow. Due to the narrow driveway and parking area (lack of turnaround), the site cannot accommodate RVs, trailers, or vehicles beyond 16ft in length, 7ft in width, or 10 ft in height. 1 car per campsite, please. 15-minute walk to the beach and downtown.

98%

(635)

Estero San Antonio Wonderland

14 sites · Lodging, Tents120 acres · Tomales, CA

Camp with sweeping views of beautiful pastureland in West Marin. Enjoy privacy, birds singing, cows, chickens, food from the farm, and hiking our gorgeous land that is on the Estero San Antonio. The campsites are spaced far apart from one another to ensure some privacy. It is very quiet out here at night. If there are other campers you might hear them in the distance. All campsite are located overlooking the Estero and close to the grass road to enter and exit the property. You will have access to some of our pastures for picnics and leisurely walks. When you check in we will give you directions to a few special places around the surrounding area and see if you would like some grassland finished beef, lamb, pork, eggs, or vegetables all grown or made on our ranch. We offer other care packages, ask us when you arrive (include, home made focaccia, sourdough bread, local cheeses, etc...) A liability waiver will be needed to be signed. This is primitive camping, There is water but it is not potable. so bring your own drinking water. It can get very windy out here in Spring and Summer. Come prepared. We have situated the campsites to be on the leeward side and as protected as possible. We try to leave the land better off than we found it and hope that you will share the same respect for the pristine beauty of this place. We are 10 minutes away from the quaint town of Tomale and 15 minutes from the town of Valley Ford. Dillon Beach is only 3.5 miles away. Bring your own kayak or canoe and paddle to the ocean down the Estero San Antonio! You can learn more about our land and practices check out True Grass Farms online.

90%

(40)

The Mojo River Spot in the redwoods

4 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Forestville, CA

A Russian River retreat within a redwood Grove with Private river access. Level space for camping!! two tiers of camping area with shared common area as well as private Gated with parking up to 4 vehicles. Please cleanup after your four-legged family members and we are Dog friendly ❤️❤️ Running water by a well on property. Tire swing, hammocks and lots of sitting areas for rested relaxation. Porto potty available and cleaned routinely. Stargazing at its finest, sunrise view in the morning. Solar lights and generator for power upon request. Fire pit. Private trail to the river. Access to a private island. Close to town and amenities yet within your own private piece of serenity!! A place to find your piece of Peace ❤️ and I look forward to sharing my piece of heaven with you!

83%

(41)

Canyon Creek Resort

159 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Winters, CA

Discover Canyon Creek Resort, a scenic riverside escape nestled on Putah Creek just below Lake Berryessa in Winters, CA. Located 40 miles west of Sacramento and 30 miles east of Napa Valley, this all‑ages resort offers a welcoming blend of outdoor recreation and comfort. From full‑hookup RV pads to cozy cabins, yurts, and tent sites, there’s something for every camping style—and yes, furry friends are welcome! On-site amenities include: Two swimming pools (one family + one adults), spa & entertainment deck Two clubhouses, bocce, horseshoes & children’s playground Market & Grill On-Site, camp store, laundry, restrooms & showers Nature trails along Putah Creek, on-site fishing & nearby boating 24/7 security, gated access, dog-friendly grounds Nearby attractions: Lake Berryessa for water sports & boating Napa Valley & Winters wine trails & downtown tastings Hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic riverbanks House Highlights: Check‑in: 3 PM | Check‑out: 11 AM Quiet hours after 10 PM Pets OK (leashed); no wood fires—propane only

91%

(142)

Whaleback Ridge Cabins & Camp

10 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents34 acres · Calistoga, CA

Welcome to our family land! As an educator, I run the camp during summers primarily. As a proudly affordable option in Calistoga, all camps are set up to be user ready and campers are responsible for leaving the sites cleaned up and “better” than you found it. If this sounds good, read on! We offer rustic nature, space for tents and smaller RVs, and two levels of cabin camping just 10 minutes outside of our hometown, Calistoga. Our land is beautiful with amazing views and lots of wildlife - which comes with your fair share of roughing it. All sites have their own compost toilet and handwashing station. For glamping experience, CORAL CABIN guests have hot shower access at the Hilltop “Cafe,” which also has a grill, sink, power outlets and Wi-Fi, coffee maker, microwave and toaster, and bathtubs for an extra charge. Water is precious up here so please conserve. *Coral Cabin is at Hilltop “Cafe” and has the only access to the amenities here. This is also the largest, flattest spot for and RV, with great views and cabin access if you wanted. This cabin is our premier ‘roughing it’ experience complete with electricity, WI-FI, TV with Roku, and an AC unit. *Married Manzanitas campsite or cabin rental is high clearance or walk-in only (no RV access) and has an ambient temperature shower at their site fed by a hose. (Hose may need to be turned on at hilltop.) If you choose to rent this cabin, this is our really roughing it experience with no Wi-Fi or electricity, just walls, high ceiling, floor, door and bed (comfy futon). It is very peaceful. Camp has a propane fire pit on request, camp stove, and table/chair seating areas (for 2). *Shaded Oak is furthest from hilltop but can accommodate small trailers (up to 15 feet…), also great sunsets and a rough trail down to our ‘fern gully’ area. Lovely site with relatively easy access to the driveway. Currently no shower access, but has propane fire pit, table and chairs, and water for handwashing. All sites: Pack your trash (just to the trashbin at the bottom of hill)! Add mulch to the toilets! Leave it better! We are proud to be an affordable option in Calistoga and If you can read and agree to the respectful use guidelines that will be sent to you when you request to book, we would be happy to host you!

Camping in China Camp State Park guide

Overview

About

From the massive salt marsh to the wide-open meadows there is a natural beauty here that is truly unique. History buffs, water enthusiasts, hikers, runners, and cyclists will all find unforgettable experiences at this park.

The park gets its name from the historic Chinese American shrimp-fishing village that existed here. At its peak, the village had three general stores, a marine supply store, and a barber shop. After the 1906 earthquake, the population temporarily swelled to 10,000, following the destruction of San Francisco’s Chinatown.

In the early 1900s, the outlawing of bag nets used to catch shrimp caused most residents to leave. One family—the Quans—decided to stay. Frank Quan was the last remaining resident and died in 2016. Every August, Chinese-American Heritage Day honors the area’s history. There are lion dances, tai chi demonstrations, and historic boats galore.

Today the park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking, paddle boarding, and sailing. You can even stay the night! This is one of the closest places to camp near the Bay Area. If you’re looking to get out of town, China Camp might just be your jam.

Notable campgrounds

Back Ranch Meadows Campground: A serene, hike-in only site for tent camping amid oak habitats.
Group Campsite: An undeveloped area ideal for larger gatherings, surrounded by natural beauty.
Hike and Bike Site: Exclusively for those journeying on foot or by bicycle, offering a rustic experience.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, as reservations can be made six months in advance from the current date.
Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an available spot.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Explore nearby camping options if your preferred dates are not available.

When to go

The best time to visit China Camp State Park is during the fog-free days that the park enjoys annually. With over 200 such days, the chances of clear weather are high. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for swimming and picnicking, while the mild winters are ideal for hiking and wildlife watching.

Know before you go

Check park hours, open from 8am to sunset daily, and plan your visit accordingly.
Remember that dogs are only allowed in developed areas and must be on a leash.
For a smooth visit, familiarize yourself with the park's rules and regulations.
Accessibility is a priority; inquire about available beach wheelchairs if needed.
Stay prepared by bringing essentials, as amenities like food service are limited.

98%

21 ratings · 14 reviews

Recommends

· June 2025

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

Pros: - 35 minute drive from western SF - Amenities like bathrooms on-site, each campsite has a fire pit and table - Woodsy with trails and a beach nearby Cons: - a little crowded at the campsite - 5-10 minute walk from parking lot to the campsite

Alex A.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2025

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

The host was incredibly welcoming and hospitable. He greeted us with a tour of the property and shared great recommendations for things to do around Albion. We had a relaxing weekend—the cabin was clean, cozy, and comfortably heated. Just steps away were a shared kitchen and bathroom, both well-maintained. I’d definitely recommend the cabins and campgrounds for families, and it’s a bonus that they’re pet-friendly!

Luyao Z.

3 reviews

September 2019

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

Camped in September. Glad we had one of the sites slightly off to the side (#26) as the center loop area was a bit of a toddler zoo. Yellowjackets were a bit annoying but otherwise no wildlife problems. Lots of mountain bikers on these trails -- we only saw one other on-foot hiker. Trail surface is a bit rocky/annoying to traverse at parts. Beautiful views of the water along the trails, also lots of tiny lizards, also turkeys and deer. Firewood available for sale at campsite on honor system.

Alex H.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· July 2017

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

You will have to park in a parking lot and carry everything to your campsite, so I recommend bringing a wagon if you have one. There are trashcans on wheels but they are in high demand during check-in/check out.

Hedy K.

8 years on Hipcamp

July 2017

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

So...my husband and I camped at site #15 this week. The pluses are water, functional trash, coin showers and bathrooms which were clean and well maintained, and the sort of gorgeousness only a oak woodland can deliver. (Arborists, please note: the site is dominated by Bay Laurel, which makes the place smell heavenly.) HOWEVER, and this is a biggie, the food lockers, which are very old wooden boxes, do not keep any animal out. Mice were able to gain access to our food. They despoiled about a third of it, which- seeing as we backpacked in-was a big problem. The food boxes are so derelict, that soon the raccoons will be able to rip their way inside. Bottom line: You must bring vermin-proof food storage with you.

Elizabeth C.

8 years on Hipcamp

June 2016

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

Made a reservation for 005 - it was incredibly hot as there are not many trees, we did go early in the day, around 3pm the heat was unbearable. We noticed some campsites were still open so we had asked if we could move our camping gear to a site that was more shaded, the ranger was more than happy to let us switch sites. The campsite has lots of lovely critters, wild turkeys, squirrels, little salamanders. At night the raccoons will come out. There are plenty of wasp traps so there are not a lot of bees around the campsites, however, there are lots of fruit flies and very few mosquitoes. I had taken my camera with me and added more photos of the campsites. Will definitely be going again.

Cydney H.

9 years on Hipcamp

June 2015

even though site #30 has a slight slope, it's the one closest to the other parking area. It's best for when you have a lot of stuff to haul.

Wilfred A.

10 years on Hipcamp

June 2015

Be aware that when it's warm, there are yellow jackets everywhere - meaning, get used to having a few constantly hovering around you. Raccoons are rather brave at night - I'd bring a lock for the food locker just in case. Awesome range of campsites!

Briana K.

10 years on Hipcamp

May 2015

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

Camped there for Thanksgiving weekend! We had a rough time with wildlife at night. China Camp is beautiful and it was great to see quails running around everywhere!

Allie F.

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

We recommend site 26 at the campground, it’s up a small hill and is secluded.

Hipcamper L.

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

Check out the Quan Bros. snack shop in China Camp Village. Meet Frank, the sole resident of the village!

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

Great for mountain bikers!

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

March 2015

Live the life of luxury (well “camping luxury) and take a shower in the coin-operated showers (bring quarters!)

Hipcamper

10 years on Hipcamp

February 2015

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

Just camped at site 28 for the weekend. Love this campground! Super organized and facilities were taken care of. I would recommend the sites closer to the parking lot for a great view of the bay (site #26, 27, 28). For a more secluded spot, #30 is farther away from the crowds. Overall, love the campground and we will be back again!

Clinton L.

10 years on Hipcamp

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United States
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California
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State Parks
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China Camp State Park

Camping in China Camp State Park

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near China Camp State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Stories from the community

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in China Camp State Park

Back Ranch Meadows Campground

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Camping in China Camp State Park guide

Overview

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