China Camp State Park

Open 8 a.m. to sunset daily

Friends of China Camp

In 2012, the State of California suspended funding for 70 state parks across California. China Camp State Park was among those facing closure. Since then, Friends of China Camp, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has operated China Camp State Park. Our organization depends on thousands of hours of volunteer service and donations from our community to keep our park open and thriving.

Events & programs

From learning about local plants and animals, to history tours, Junior Ranger programs, full moon walks, and pitching in on a volunteer day, there’s something for everyone at China Camp. Check out our diverse mix of events and programs—all free to FOCC members!

Hiking & biking

Enjoy 15 miles of multi-use trails, from family-friendly routes to fun workouts and climbs to awesome views. Come stretch your legs with a hike or trail run, pedal a mountain bike, or roll a stroller on our ADA-accessible, foot-traffic only Turtle Back trail.

Young cyclist shows off his annual pass by Harriot Manley
Trail & parking passes

Get access to unlimited hiking and parking, plus a host of other benefits, with our annual passes. Find out why it’s so important to become a member of Friends of China Camp, and how to join today.

Back Ranch Meadows Campground, China Camp State Park by Harriot Manley
Camping

Relax under the stars at Back Ranch Meadows Campground, with 33 tent-only sites in a secluded oak-and-bay forest, complete with campfire rings, grills, and hot showers.

Volunteer

Support our year-round efforts to keep China Camp’s open for all. Make a difference, have fun, share your expertise or learn a new skill, and meet new friends. No experience necessary!

Donate

It’s pretty cool to have a place where 100 percent of your donation supports an organization. That’s what happens at Friends of China Camp. As the operators and managers of the park, we absolutely depend on support from people and businesses. Find out what you can do to help us keep the park open and thriving.

Video

A brief history of China Camp State Park

Watch this short video about China Camp’s fascinating cultural history and the legacy of stewardship that continues to preserve the park to this day.

History

Discover China Camp's rich heritage

From indigenous peoples to Spanish settlers and Chinese fishermen, find out more about the park’s cultural history.

Friends of China Camp volunteers at Back Ranch Meadows Campground by Scott Griggs
Pitch in

Volunteer

Get a great work out. Develop a new skill. Make new friends. Find out how you can join one of our lively volunteer days to help maintain and enhance the park. Or share your skills to help FOCC grow and thrive.

climate change

Sea-level rise and N. San Pedro Road

With climate change a big risk throughout the region, researchers are studying what to do about the park’s flood-prone road.

Invasive broom pull at China Camp
China Camp Champion

Improving biodiversity and curbing fire fuels

Learn about major efforts by state and local agencies to improve habitat and create defensible spaces along San Pedro Ridge.

Park safety

Emergency Locator System helps us find you

China Camp’s system of special locator numbers—shown as black numbers in a yellow circle—help first responders find you in case of emergency. These locator numbers are affixed to trail posts, trailhead signs, and bridges throughout the park. When you call 911 for help, you can share your location based on the nearest emergency locator number, meaning help can get to you faster.

nature

Aw nuts—it’s acorn season

It’s busy busy busy out there at China Camp in autumn, as one of the park’s most important food sources ripens.

Mountain biking

E-bike do’s and don’ts at China Camp

Find out which models can—and can’t—be used at China Camp, and how to keep yourself and others safe.

Upcoming Events

December 5
Family fun: watch the “Long Night Moon” rise

Bundle up the whole family and head to the picnic area at China Camp Point to...

December 6
Catch the king tide

If you’ve lived through a wet winter in this area, you know that the highest tides...

December 10
Give-back morning at China Camp

Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but...

December 13
Birding walk: winter surprises

At the edge of a meadow, a male Anna’s hummingbird whizzes by, lands on a twig,...

Become a Friend

Friends of China Camp (FOCC) is the community-based nonprofit organization that keeps China Camp State Park open. Since 2012, FOCC has been the sole operator and manager of the park. The organization, largely run by volunteers, is responsible for covering all expenses related to keeping the park open. Find out how you can become a member, and help keep China Camp open and thriving for all.

Things To Do

Camping
Park map & brochure
Explore
Weddings & celebrations
Camping
Park map & brochure
Explore
Weddings & celebrations

Get Connected

Learn how to support the park by becoming a member.

PHOTOs: Joyce Abrams, Harriot Manley, CA State Parks Historical Archives, Courtesy of NERR