China Camp State Park Campground
3.7610 reviews730 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA 94901
China Camp State Park Campground
$35.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $35 per night, as confirmed by both official park sources and user reviews.
About this campground
Escape the ordinary at Back Ranch Meadows Campground, where adventure begins with a scenic walk from your car. This unique walk-in campground features 33 thoughtfully placed sites, including two dedicated hike-and-bike spots perfect for cycling enthusiasts. Your journey starts at the parking area, where you'll transport your gear along peaceful paths ranging from 50 to 300 yards—a small trek that rewards you with enhanced privacy and a deeper connection to nature. Each tent-only site comes equipped with essential comforts: a fire pit for evening gatherings, a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining, and access to modern restrooms and refreshing showers. It's camping that strikes the perfect balance between rustic charm and practical amenities.
China Camp State Park Campground exclusively offers walk-in tent camping and one group site, along with hike-and-bike sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the fascinating remnants of an 1880s Chinese shrimp-fishing village that once thrived in these waters. This campground sits near a living piece of California history, where industrious Chinese immigrants built a flourishing community along the bay shores. Today, an on-site museum brings their remarkable story to life, showcasing the ingenuity of early fishing practices and the cultural contributions these pioneers made to the region. It's a rare opportunity to combine outdoor recreation with a meaningful journey through California's multicultural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with over 200 days of glorious sunshine annually, Back Ranch Meadows offers year-round outdoor adventures. Winter brings mild, comfortable temperatures hovering in the pleasant 50s—ideal for hiking without breaking a sweat. As summer arrives, the mercury climbs from the comfortable 70s to occasional peaks above 100 degrees, creating perfect conditions for early morning explorations and lazy afternoon siestas in the shade. This Mediterranean-style climate means you can plan your camping trip virtually any time of year, with each season offering its own unique charm and outdoor possibilities.
ElevationNestled at sea level along the bay's edge, this campground offers easy, level terrain perfect for all camping abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a stunning tapestry of California ecosystems where ancient oak woodlands meet sweeping native grasslands, and pristine tidal marshes stretch toward the horizon. This diverse landscape creates a haven for wildlife enthusiasts—watch for graceful deer browsing at dawn, clever raccoons exploring at dusk, and countless shorebirds dancing along the water's edge. The area serves as a critical sanctuary for rare species, including the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse and the elusive California clapper rail, making every visit a potential wildlife discovery. The ever-changing interplay of meadows, marshes, and woodlands creates breathtaking vistas and endless opportunities for nature photography.
Geological RegionPositioned along the dynamic intertidal salt marshlands of San Pablo Bay, Back Ranch Meadows occupies one of California's most ecologically significant landscapes. This unique location, where freshwater meets saltwater, has created a rich mosaic of habitats over thousands of years. The surrounding terrain showcases the Bay Area's natural diversity—from wind-swept native grasslands that turn golden in summer to majestic oak woodlands providing cool, shaded retreats. The rhythmic tides continuously reshape the marsh environment, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your camping adventure and offering front-row seats to one of nature's most productive ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySix tent sites are accessible on hard-packed dirt in dry weather, but user reviews highlight significant issues for wheelchair users, including paths that are rocky and prone to tipping.
Sites SizeSites are described as large with tent spaces and accessible tables.
Sites PrivacySites are shaded and offer some privacy; user reviews mention that they are not clustered too closely together.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites with shade and privacy, such as sites 3b, 7, and 26. Avoid sites near restrooms due to bright lights.
Best CampsitesSites 3b, 7, 14, 16, 20, 23, 24, 26.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The maximum stay limit at Back Ranch Meadows Campground is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight persons maximum are allowed per campsite.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties and require reservations. Specific capacity details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 33 walk-in sites; equipment must be transported up to 300 yards from parking. Two hike-and-bike sites are available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia at 1-800-444-7275 or online at www.reservecalifornia.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is limited as all sites are reservable year-round through ReserveCalifornia.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies can be reviewed through ReserveCalifornia.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide variety of activities are available at China Camp State Park Campground, including hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, swimming, and cultural programs.
Hiking15 miles of hiking trails are available, with standout options like the Shoreline Trail and Turtle Back Nature Trail. The trails offer varied terrains and views, but sections can be challenging during rain events.
FishingFishing is permitted with valid California licenses, and species like striped bass and flounder can be caught.
SwimmingFamily-friendly swimming areas are located near China Camp Village.
BikingMountain biking trails are popular. However, one user review mentions noisy children on bikes interfering with the camping experience.
BoatingSmall vessel boating is supported with tide-dependent launch areas at Bullhead Flat and lower China Camp Village.
Wildlife viewingThe intertidal salt marsh is home to endangered species like the salt marsh harvest mouse and California clapper rail, making it ideal for wildlife viewing.
Beach activitiesBeach-related activities such as picnicking and swimming are available at China Camp Village.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsMuseum exhibits at China Camp Village focus on early Chinese settlement. Heritage Day celebrates Chinese culture with activities and tours.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in park-designated barbecues in developed areas.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include raccoons scavenging food, occasional bees, and rocky paths that may pose challenges for wheelchairs during dry weather.
Active alertsSome ADA amenities, including accessible bathrooms, are currently under construction or remodeling.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include Marin General Hospital (approximately 7 miles away in San Rafael), police station in San Rafael, and park ranger station within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months, particularly June through September, are considered peak season due to favorable weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned. Users are required to carry all camping equipment to the sites, which may include managing their waste.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the scenic San Pablo Bay shoreline, offering access to tidal marshes and nearby trails with waterfront views.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include lack of privacy due to trails running through campsites, noisy children, overwhelming flies, and rocky paths making wheelchair access difficult.
HostReviews vary on the camp host, with some praising their friendliness ('a very friendly old man') and others mentioning the absence or rudeness of hosts during specific visits.
Campground Map
730 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA 94901
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101, go east on North San Pedro Road for five miles until it enters the park.
The road is paved and easily accessible from major highways. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.Nearby places
San Rafael (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Novato (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes), San Francisco (20 miles, approximately 40 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in San Rafael, approximately 5 miles west along Highway 101.
Camper Reviews
3.8
10 reviews
China Camp State Park Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect mixed experiences, with positive feedback on the serene environment but complaints about accessibility, closed facilities, and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Highlights include clean bathrooms when operational, quiet atmosphere without road noise, and shaded campsites with privacy.
Common issues include inaccessible paths for disabled campers, poor cell phone reception, noisy children, and maintenance problems with bathrooms and showers.
Arrive early to set up camp before dark. Bring quarters for showers and prepare for a walk between parking and campsites. Some users recommend having an adult male in the group for added security.
Summer reviews highlight warm weather and abundant activities, while winter visits experience cooler temperatures and reduced availability of certain facilities.
'Sunrise is just heavenly from this nice State Park.' 'You can’t park on a campsite and have to walk.' 'Dusty and noisy children.' 'The host is a very friendly old man.' 'Accessible paths are rocky...
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Best sites include numbers 3b, 7, 14, 16, 20, 23, 24, and 26.
Accessibility issues are significant, particularly for wheelchair users. Paths to accessible sites are rocky and prone to tipping, and ADA bathrooms and showers are under construction or unavailable.
Pets are allowed but restricted to developed areas and campsites. They are prohibited on trails.
Last updated July 31, 2025