China Camp State Park Campground
3.7610 reviews730 N. San Pedro Road, San Rafael, CA 94901
Quick Facts
Price
$35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$35/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
33 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
Showers
Get DirectionsChina Camp State Park Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsite fees are $35 per night, as confirmed by both official park sources and user reviews.
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
Total Campsite Fees$70.00
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Reserve California
Provider415-456-0766info@friendsofchinacamp.org
What Campers Say
3.76
Mixed Reviews
Based on 10 reviews
66 Google reviews
Most mentioned
privacyquietcleanshade
"User reviews reflect mixed experiences, with positive feedback on the serene environment but complaints about accessibility, closed facilities, and maintenance issues."
Fees & Passes at China Camp State Park Campground
$35/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: The maximum stay limit at Back Ranch Meadows Campground is 14 consecutive nights.
Cancellation: Cancellation policies can be reviewed through ReserveCalifornia.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official California State Parks website.
Best Time to Camp at China Camp State Park Campground
Blessed 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.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Summer months, particularly June through September, are considered peak season due to favorable weather conditions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round.
- Current Alerts: Some ADA amenities, including accessible bathrooms, are currently under construction or remodeling.
About China Camp State Park 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.
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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 Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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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.
Hiking
15 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.Fishing
Fishing is permitted with valid California licenses, and species like striped bass and flounder can be caught.Swimming
Family-friendly swimming areas are located near China Camp Village.Biking
Mountain biking trails are popular. However, one user review mentions noisy children on bikes interfering with the camping experience.Boating
Small vessel boating is supported with tide-dependent launch areas at Bullhead Flat and lower China Camp Village.Wildlife viewing
The 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 activities
Beach-related activities such as picnicking and swimming are available at China Camp Village.Cultural and Educational Programs
Museum exhibits at China Camp Village focus on early Chinese settlement. Heritage Day celebrates Chinese culture with activities and tours.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at China Camp Village. Undeveloped boat launch areas are available for small vessels.Advertisement
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 at China Camp State Park Campground
47
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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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.
Reviews from booking and map sources
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
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include clean bathrooms when operational, quiet atmosphere without road noise, and shaded campsites with privacy.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include inaccessible paths for disabled campers, poor cell phone reception, noisy children, and maintenance problems with bathrooms and showers.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
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.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight warm weather and abundant activities, while winter visits experience cooler temperatures and reduced availability of certain facilities.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
'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...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best sites include numbers 3b, 7, 14, 16, 20, 23, 24, and 26.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
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.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted to developed areas and campsites. They are prohibited on trails.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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