China Camp State Park is a peaceful and scenic area covering about 1,500 acres of wetlands, forests, meadows, beaches, and views of San Pablo Bay. The park features over 15 miles of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and running, with a small trail fee. Visitors enjoy the quiet atmosphere, beautiful water views, and shady spots perfect for picnics and relaxing. The park also offers the Back Ranch Campground, with shady tent-only campsites open year-round, making it a great spot for camping close to San Francisco. A notable attraction is the historic Chinese shrimp fishing village from the 1850s, which includes historic buildings, a cafe, and a museum, giving visitors a glimpse into the area's history. The park is primarily run by volunteers from Friends of China Camp, as it receives no state funding. Visitors have praised the park’s clean and scenic environment, highlighting its well-maintained trails, fabulous views, and tranquil setting. Some trails offer challenging elevation gains, rewarding explorers with stunning vistas of the bay. The park is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and camping, offering a relaxing escape near the Bay Area, with opportunities to see local wildlife and enjoy nature in a quiet, unspoiled setting.
I hiked about 15 miles, The Shoreline Trail is mostly flat and follows the bay, while the Bay View Trail climbs into the hills for sweeping views of San Pablo Bay, Mount Tamalpais, and on clear days even Mount Diablo. The park is also very popular with mountain bikers.
July 2026
Always cooler , great trails, breezes from both bays
July 2026
What a cool little campground tucked away. Not far from San Francisco. I wish I could have spent more time there. I also wish it had been more full. Saw a doe with 2 spotted fawns and a tom turkey with 3 or 4 hens at the entrance! Definitely a hidden gem!
