China Camp State Park San Francisco Day Trip

China Camp State Park is approximately 20 miles north of San Francisco, on the San Pedro Peninsula in San Rafael, California. To reach the park, take Point San Pedro Road and enjoy the beautiful views of San Pablo Bay to the east. The park covers over 1,600 acres of oak tree woodlands, offering sweeping bay vistas, pristine tidal wetlands, and whimsical grasslands.

The park has something for everyone and is especially popular with mountain bikers, hikers, kayakers, and casual campers. History buffs will appreciate the historic China Camp Village, while birdwatchers can view more than 100 different species of birds.

Visitors may also ride horseback, windsurf, or take small boats out on the water via the China Camp Village boat launch.

Over 44 fish species live in the bay, including clams, shrimp, and other sea dwellers. Deer, wild turkeys, and bobcats roam the forested hillsides, and visitors might spot an eagle overhead. Nature enthusiasts may also happen upon one of the several different species of reptiles while admiring the diversity of wildflowers found at the park.

China Camp State Park History

China Camp State Park has a rich history that began with the indigenous Miwok people, who thrived in the area for thousands of years. With the arrival of Europeans, the Miwok population began to decline. In the 1870s, Chinese fishers settled in the area and built a small village.

The fishermen focused on the abundant shrimp in the bay, which they dried and shipped to other Chinese communities and back to their native China. Be sure to visit the China Camp Village museum to learn more about the area’s early inhabitants.

Kids interested in becoming Junior Rangers can meet outside the museum on the last Saturday of the month (excluding November-February) from 3:30 pm-4:30 pm.

This free program is geared toward children 7-12 but is open to all ages. Reservations are not needed. Don’t forget to stop by the Quan Brother’s Snack Shop for food, drinks, and ice cream! The owner, Frank Quan, grew up in the village and still resides in China Camp.

Every August, the non-profit organization Friends of China Camp presents Heritage Day to celebrate Chinese-American heritage, maritime culture, and the park’s natural history.

Enjoy special performances, origami demonstrations, arts and crafts sales, and guided village tours.

China Camp State Park Picnics

China Camp State Park has three picnic sites for parties and other gatherings. For up to 50 people, Buckeye Point and Weber Point are available for day use and offer stunning views of San Pablo Bay.

For larger groups, Miwok Meadows Picnic has up to 200 people. Bay laurels and oak trees surround this gr for a more extensive groupsassy meadow. Miwok Meadows has BBQs, picnic tables, and a horseshoe toss area.

China Camp State Park Camping

Tent camping is available at Back Ranch Meadows Campground. Visitors must park in the lot and carry items into the camping area.

A maximum of eight people is allowed per campsite. There is a modest fee to camp. Visitors may check-in after 2 pm, and check-out time is noon. Self-contained recreational vehicles may stay at the en-route parking area for one night.

China Camp State Park visitors can park in one of the designated parking lots for a nominal fee or park for free along San Pedro Road. Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails. However, leashed dogs are permitted in the picnic and camping areas and on the beach.

Where is China Camp State Park

101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, California.

China Camp State Beach is known for its relatively high number of fog-free days, which averages around 200 per year. During summer, temperatures can go above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the climate can be chilly in winter, so wearing lightweight layers is recommended to adjust to changes in weather. If you plan to bring your dog, note that they are only allowed in developed areas. Dogs are prohibited on trails, dirt roads, backcountry areas, historic buildings, and gardens.

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