Overview

As of 11/1/2026, this campground is under new management - it is now being managed directly by the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. The campground is CLOSED while we assess and address health and safety concerns. Thank you for your patience, we look forward to serving you soon!

Pleasantly nestled under mature oak trees, China Camp is a campground where peace and quiet is commonplace. The spacious campsites allow you to set up camp with more than enough space between you and your neighbors.

Facilities

The campground offers 10 campsites suitable for tent and car camping, but is not recommended for RVs over 20 feet. Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings, however, always check local fire restrictions prior to your arrival. Two vault toilets are located near the campground bulletin board. There is no potable water (drinking water) onsite. There is no dump station.

Natural Features

China Camp is surrounded by oak and pine trees, providing ample shade for visitors. Bobcats, coyotes and black tailed deer roam the rolling, lush hills. Red tailed hawks and turkey vultures can be seen soaring above the trees, so bring along some binoculars and make sure to keep an eye out. The melody of chirping of birds during the day time complimented by the sounds of crickets at night.

Recreation

China Camp offers trails along the hillside and the Miller Canyon trailhead begins in the campground. The Pine Ridge trailhead begins adjacent from the campground bulletin board. This 23-mile trail offers stunning views of the Santa Lucia mountain range which are covered in towering oaks trees.

Nearby Attractions

Miller Canyon Trailhead and Pine Ridge Trailhead

Important Notices

• As of 11/1/2026, this campground is under new management - it is now being managed directly by the Los Padres National Forest, Monterey Ranger District. The campground is CLOSED while we assess and address health and safety concerns. Thank you for your patience, we look forward to serving you soon!

• No water is available.

• No cell service.

• The nearest stores and gas are 22 miles to Carmel Valley or 40 miles to Greenfield.

• Pack In. Pack Out. It is the law.

• Quiet hours are 10 p.m. - 6 a.m.

• Fireworks are prohibited at all times.

• Pets are allowed.

• Be safe. Let someone know your plan.

• Bring gnat/mosquito repellent.

• Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

• Caution: Poison Oak may be present

Available Activities

• WILDLIFE VIEWING - Wildlife Viewing
• HIKING - Hiking
• CAMPING - Camping
• BIKING - Mountain Biking

Directions

<p>Latitude: 36.29554 Longitude: -121.567507 Four wheel drive and high clearance recommended. From Highway 101 North, take exit for Arroyo Seco Rd before the city of Greenfield. Continue down the road for 16.2 miles to the junction of Arroyo Seco Road and Carmel Valley Road then follow to the right. Take Carmel Valley Road 17.2 miles to the junction with Tassajara Road and turn left. Continue for 11 miles until you see the entrance to China Camp on the right-hand side. From Highway 101 South, take exit for Arroyo Seco road then make your first, immediate left onto Elm Ave. Continue down Elm Ave for 6 miles then take a left at the "T" onto Arroyo Seco road. Follow the road for 6.5 miles to the junction of Carmel Valley road, then bear right. Take Carmel Valley for 17 miles to the junction of Tassajara road, take a left and continue 11 miles until you see the entrance to China Camp on the right-hand side.</p>

Contact Information

Phone: 805 434 1996

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip