China Camp Campground

About

Pleasantly nestled under a large canopy of pine trees, China Camp is a remote campground where peace and quiet is commonplace. Located at 4,260 feet on Chews Ridge in the Santa Lucia Mountains, the spacious campsites provide ample separation between neighbors. The sweet smell of pine greets visitors as they arrive, and the surrounding oak and pine forest provides abundant shade. The Pine Ridge trailhead begins directly across from the campground bulletin board, offering access to a 23-mile trail with stunning views of the Santa Lucia mountain range. Wildlife including bobcats, coyotes, and black-tailed deer roam the rolling hills, while red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures soar overhead. This is a primitive campground with no potable water, so campers must bring all water needed. Two vault toilets are located near the bulletin board. The nearest stores and gas are 22 miles away in Carmel Valley or 40 miles to Greenfield. There is absolutely no cell service at the campground.

Directions

From Highway 101 North near Greenfield, exit at Arroyo Seco Road and continue 16.2 miles to the junction with Carmel Valley Road. Bear right onto Carmel Valley Road and continue 17.2 miles to the junction with Tassajara Road. Turn left on Tassajara Road and continue 11 miles to China Camp on the right. The road turns to rough dirt; 4WD and high-clearance vehicles are recommended.