China Camp Campground
3.7120 reviewsChina Camp Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites are $30 per night during peak season (January 1 - December 31, 2025). Additional charges include $2 for weekends and holidays. Reservation fees are non-refundable and costs vary depending on reservation method.
About this campground
Escape to China Camp Campground, where towering pine trees create a natural cathedral overhead and spacious sites invite you to unwind in perfect tranquility. This hidden gem welcomes tent campers and small RVs (under 20 feet) seeking an authentic wilderness experience away from the crowds. Each generously-sized campsite offers its own pocket of serenity beneath the protective canopy, where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind whispering through the branches.
China Camp Campground caters to primitive camping styles, with facilities suited for tent and car camping. Its remote location and rugged terrain make it ideal for experienced campers seeking solitude and a connection with nature.
Historical SignificanceChina Camp represents the timeless allure of California's untamed wilderness, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to reconnect with nature's raw beauty.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts that make China Camp a year-round adventure. Winter transforms the landscape into a mystical wonderland, where morning fog drifts through the pines and occasional snowfall dusts the forest floor with pristine white. As summer arrives, the mountains bask in golden California sunshine, bringing warm, dry days perfect for hiking and exploration. While summer's warmth awakens the local insect population, the shade of ancient trees provides natural relief from both heat and bugs.
ElevationPerched high in the mountain wilderness, China Camp offers the crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures that only elevation can provide, making it a refreshing retreat from the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient oaks mingle with stately pines, creating a diverse forest ecosystem that captivates all your senses. The moment you arrive, that distinctive sweet pine fragrance envelops you like nature's own welcome mat. This thriving habitat serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife characters – from elusive bobcats padding silently through the underbrush to majestic black-tailed deer grazing in dappled sunlight. Keep your eyes skyward to spot red-tailed hawks circling on thermal currents, while coyotes' evening songs remind you that you're sharing this spectacular landscape with its original inhabitants.
Geological RegionChina Camp Campground sits nestled within the dramatic Santa Lucia mountain range, deep in the heart of the legendary Ventana Wilderness. This rugged corner of Los Padres National Forest showcases nature's architectural prowess, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of steep, challenging trails and rolling hills that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. The diverse terrain supports a remarkable transition zone where oak woodlands blend seamlessly with pine forests, creating a unique ecosystem found nowhere else in California. This is wilderness camping at its finest – raw, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not have specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. Navigating the uneven terrain and dirt roads can be challenging.
Sites SizeThe campsites are spacious but lack uniform flatness. Some reviewers noted level areas suitable for pitching tents, while others cited sloping grounds.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a good level of privacy due to the ample space between campsites and the surrounding oak and pine trees. A reviewer remarked, 'Plenty of space between sites.'
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 4 and Site 5 are highly recommended. Site 4 is flat with excellent views, while Site 5 is tucked away and provides privacy. Site 5 has "a nice flat stretch for pitching 2 tents."
Best CampsitesSite 4 offers flat terrain and an excellent view of the mountain range. Site 5 is also praised for its privacy and flat space for tents.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
There are no designated group camping sites at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are divided into two loops with handwritten placards indicating site numbers. Sites 6-10 are only open in summer.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but certain sites (6-10) are only available during summer season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit mention of walk-up availability, but review comments indicate that the campground is remote and less visited, so walk-up options likely exist.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservation dates are allowed but incur a $10 change fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight the day before check-in) will forfeit the $10 cancellation fee plus the first night’s recreation fee. No refunds for no-shows.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
China Camp Campground is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The Pine Ridge Trailhead, located across from the campground bulletin board, is a centerpiece, providing 23 miles of scenic hiking opportunities. The area's natural beauty and wildlife make it a popular spot for nature lovers.
Hiking
The Pine Ridge Trailhead begins at the campground and spans 23 miles, offering stunning views of the Santa Lucia Mountains. Trail conditions are rugged, with overgrown shrubs requiring preparation. A reviewer noted, 'Be prepared to get thwapped by miles of overgrown shrubs if you don’t bring shears.'Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the nearby trails, accessible within 10-15 minutes of the campground. However, there are no specific biking trails at the campground itself.Wildlife viewing
The lush hills and surrounding forest are home to bobcats, coyotes, black-tailed deer, red-tailed hawks, and turkey vultures. Binoculars are recommended for wildlife enthusiasts. A user highlighted the experience: 'The melody of chirping birds during the daytime complemented by the sounds of crickets at night provides the textbook balance of unspoiled nature.'Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, but conditions can be harsh with snow and cold air blowing up the canyon. One user noted their experience: 'When we camped here in the snow, one camper couldn’t get his car out because he couldn’t get up the hill near the toilets.'Water Sports
Water sports are not offered at or near this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Restrictions vary seasonally.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 8 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsRemote location increases risks for emergencies. Seasonal rain can make roads impassable. "Road was impassable in the rain."
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.2 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
Emergency services are miles away; Greenfield and Carmel Valley are the nearest towns with connectivity to emergency services. "Don't take unnecessary chances - help for emergencies is miles away."
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from January 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling options are not mentioned. Campers are advised to maintain cleanliness and avoid littering to preserve the natural environment.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features within the campground. Nearby hiking trails may cross streams.
Common complaintsSeveral reviews highlight poor road conditions, lack of potable water, and limited site signage. "Road was impassable in the rain." "No drinking water is available." "The site numbers aren't easily visible, especially at night."
HostSome reviews mention a campground host and bulletin board but indicate limited available information onsite. "The Camp Host info board has neither a campground map nor a general area map."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101 North, take exit for Arroyo Seco Rd before the city of Greenfield. Continue down the road for 16.2 miles to the junction of Arroyo Seco Road and Carmel Valley Road then follow to the right. Take Carmel Valley Road 17.2 miles to the junction with Tassajara Road and turn left. Continue for 11 miles until you see the entrance to China Camp on the right-hand side.
From Highway 101 South, take exit for Arroyo Seco road then make your first immediate left onto Elm Ave. Continue down Elm Ave for 6 miles then take a left at the "T" onto Arroyo Seco road. Follow the road for 6.5 miles to the junction of Carmel Valley road, then bear right. Take Carmel Valley for 17 miles to the junction of Tassajara road, take a left and continue 11 miles until you see the entrance to China Camp on the right-hand side.
"The road eventually turns into dirt, please drive slow and carefully." Multiple reviews highlight the ruggedness of the terrain and strongly recommend using a 4x4 for access, especially during rain. "Strongly suggest no 2 wheel drive. Best use a 4x4 to get there." and "Road was impassable in the rain."Nearby places
The nearest cities are Carmel Valley, approximately 22 miles away, and Greenfield, which is 40 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Nearest stores and gas stations are located in Carmel Valley (22 miles away) or Greenfield (40 miles away). "Absolutely no cell service can be found in the campground but a connection can be made in either Carmel Valley or Greenfield."
Camper Reviews
3.7
20 reviews
China Camp Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of China Camp Campground highlight its remote beauty and primitive camping experience. While many appreciate its spacious sites, natural surroundings, and proximity to trails, others point to challenges like uneven terrain, lack of water, and difficult access roads.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praise the campground for its serene environment, spacious sites, and excellent hiking opportunities. One reviewer called it 'peaceful and spacious,' while another noted, 'Amazing shade,...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints include uneven campsites, poor road conditions, lack of water, and primitive vault toilets. One user remarked, 'The road was impassable in the rain. Worst national forest...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of water, a high-clearance vehicle for the rough road, and equipment to handle overgrown trails. One suggestion was, 'Bring your gnat/mosquito repellent in...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping is described as challenging due to snow and fog, with some users unable to navigate the icy roads. Spring and fall are preferred seasons, offering more manageable weather conditions...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Amazing shade, tons of trees for hammocks, fires allowed.'
2. 'Vault toilets are tiny and not very clean but okay for one night’s stay.'
3. 'Peaceful and spacious.'
4. 'The Pine Ridge Trailhead...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 4 is considered the best for its flat terrain and scenic views, as noted by one user: 'Site 4 is flat and tucked on the edge with an amazing view of the mountain range.' Site 5 also received...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities, but the primitive nature, uneven terrain, and lack of accessibility features suggest it may not be suitable.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users brought their dogs. One reviewer mentioned, 'I was unable to do any day-hiking as my dog was recovering from surgery, but it was an excellent place to sack out.'
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025