The historic China Camp State Park in San Rafael, California is nestled along the edge of San Pablo Bay. It offers a rare blend of coastal habitat, cultural heritage, and active recreation. Featuring preserved shrimping village structures, marsh trails, and oak woodlands, this park immerses visitors in over 1,500 acres of bayside wonder just 5 miles from the Golden Gate Bridge.
What Makes China Camp State Park Unique
China Camp was designated in 1976. It was named a National Historic District. It protects the remnants of a thriving 19th-century Chinese shrimp-fishing village. Beyond its compelling cultural history, the park shields vital ecosystems—salt marshes, oak groves, and riparian corridors—supporting endangered species like the California clapper rail, marsh harvest mouse, osprey, deer, and coyotes. Interpretive exhibits and scheduled ranger-led programs bring these stories to life against the backdrop of gentle bay waters.
Top Activities & Amenities
Hiking & Biking Trails
Over 15 miles of multi-use trails wind through diverse landscapes. Family-friendly loops include the Woodpecker and Shoreline Trails. More challenging Bay View and Miwok Trails climb coastal ridges. They offer sweeping bay vistas. Note: dogs are not permitted on trails.
Kayaking, Boating & Fishing
The protected bay waters offer calm paddling—rentals available at the China Camp Village area. Boat launch ramps at Bullhead Flat and the village are tide-dependent. Fishing is popular for striped bass, perch, sturgeon and even salmon, with fish cleaning stations near the village dock.
Campsites, Group Camping & Picnic Areas
Back Ranch Meadows campground has 33 walk-in tent sites. They are tucked in oak woods and each has fire rings, picnic tables, and drinking water. A group campsite is also available. Three reservable day-use areas (Weber Point, Buckeye Point, Miwok Meadows) include tables, BBQ grills, shade, drinking fountains and flush or chemical toilets.
Wildlife Viewing & Nature Trails
Oak woodlands and marsh habitats support deer, squirrels, foxes, bats and a myriad of birdlife. The ADA-accessible Turtle Back Nature Trail—a 0.7-mile loop—passes through marsh and woodland with interpretive signage and tactile audio tours. Hawk and raptor sightings are common along ridgelines.
Restrooms, Showers & Parking
A central day-use and village parking lot provides restrooms, filtered water fountains, and an outdoor shower. The campground includes vault toilets, drinking water, and a bit of solitude. A few ADA-accessible parking spaces serve major trailheads.
Visitor Tips
- Park open daily 8 am–sunset; parking fee $5 (annual passes accepted).
- Back Ranch Meadows campsites are hike-in only; no RV hookups or dump stations.
- Dogs allowed on leash in campground and picnic zones; not on trails or beach.
- Boat ramps are tide-dependent; check tides before boating or kayaking.
- Be dye-aware: marsh trails flood in winter—bring waterproof shoes.
- Bring layers—bay winds and fog are common spring through fall.
- Crowds peak on summer weekends; arrive early to secure parking.
- Sign up in advance for group picnic areas and interpretive programs.
- No collecting of wildlife, plants, or artifacts—leave everything undisturbed.
- Drones are prohibited to protect sensitive habitats and visitor privacy.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in late spring or early fall when migrating shorebirds fill the marsh and osprey nests bustle above the village. Paddle across the bay at sunset to glimpse golden waterfowl reflections and floating duck blinds. For a hidden gem experience, take the Ridge—Bay View Trail early morning and catch sparkling bay light through oak canopies, followed by a refreshing dip by the historic pier—just steps from the museum and snack shack.