China Camp Campground

Los Padres National Forest | Monterey, CA

You couldn’t find a sweeter spot to pitch a tent than China Camp Campground in Los Padres National Forest. Ample space between campsites gives you peace and quiet, beneath a canopy of fragrant pine trees. Follow the Pine Ridge trailhead from the campground, on foot or mountain bike, and head into 23 miles of pure wilderness, with inspiring views of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range. Backpackers love this trail during the cool winter and spring months. Birds and beasts roam the area’s rolling, lush hills so birdwatchers, bring binoculars and watch for red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures. At nearby Tassajara Hot Springs, a private Buddhist retreat in Carmel Valley, soak up tranquility while relaxing in natural mineral hot springs, then return to your campsite nurtured by nature. Sleep never felt so good.