Friends of China Camp

Naturalist Book Club
2025-06-29 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | CA
The Universe Within by Neil Shubin

During this month’s book club meeting, we will discuss The Universe Within by esteemed author and biology professor, Neil Shubin. This book explores the deep connections between the ever-changing nature of the cosmos and the evolution of the human body.
From the publisher’s website:
“In The Universe Within, Neil Shubin reveals the connection between the evolution of the cosmos and the evolution of the human body. Just as the history of the earth is written in the rocks, so too is the universe’s 14-billion-year history written in the human body. Starting at the smallest level, with our very molecular composition, Shubin explores the question of why we are the way we are, tracing the formation of the planets, the moon, and the globe of Earth through the development of the organs, cells, and genes that make up human life.”

Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.

Date: Sunday, June 29
Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Location: online meeting; details emailed with registration confirmation
Cost: free for FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Age: 12 and up
Maximum attendees: 30

RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-07-01 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No experience or long-term commitment is necessary. Just come wearing long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget a filled water bottle, work gloves, and sunscreen! Please note that pets are not allowed on our trails, so we kindly ask that you leave your furry friends at home.
We look forward to seeing you out on the trails!
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Tuesday, July 1 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-07-09 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No previous experience or long-term commitment required. Wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes (no sandals!). Bring a filled water bottle, work gloves, and wear sunscreen (bug spray optional). For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Special Brown-Bag Lunch Day: After our work morning, bring your own lunch for an informal gathering with fellow volunteers at China Camp Village. Cold drinks provided by Friends of China Camp.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Wednesday, July 9 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Full Moon Hike: Buck Moon
2025-07-10 19:45 - 22:15 | CA
Join an invigorating hike to watch July’s spectacular “Buck Moon” rise above the bay. This month’s full moon marks the time of year when male deer, who shed their antlers in early spring, start to sport a new set of antlers. We hope to spy some of the park’s dashing stags as we follow a winding trail to a breathtaking 500-foot overlook with superb views of the moonrise.
Be sure to arrive by 7:45 p.m. Hike starts promptly at 8 p.m. Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Thursday, July 10
Time: 7:45 p.m. – 10:15 p.m.
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: moderate 3.5-mile round-trip hike with 500-foot ascent
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-07-17 09:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No experience or long-term commitment is necessary. Just come wearing long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget a filled water bottle, work gloves, and sunscreen! Please note that pets are not allowed on our trails, so we kindly ask that you leave your furry friends at home.
We look forward to seeing you out on the trails!
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Thursday, July 17 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Birding hike: Summer shorebirds
2025-07-19 08:00 - 10:00 | CA
Scan our tidal wetlands in July, and you’ll likely see an outstanding array of shorebirds. Handsome marbled godwits, downright-cute Western snowy plovers (a federally threatened species), plus assorted sandpipers and ducks frequent our shoreline, making it a great place to head for this month’s birding walk. We’ll start with a refresher of key techniques for identifying birds, then we will head out to see what’s poking, paddling, and flapping about (including our various species of gull).
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced birder, this outing provides a great opportunity to enjoy the diverse avian life along the edge of the bay.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Saturday, July 19
Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Location: China Camp Village museum
Difficulty: easy 1.5- to 2-mile walk
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Nature hike: Summery walk in the woods
2025-07-26 09:00 - 11:00 | CA
As the lushness of spring slides into the golden days of mid-summer, changes happen all over the park. Join our leisurely walk into one of China Camp’s key habitats: our beautiful oak and bay woodlands. We’ll be on the lookout for a host of summer’s remarkable seeds—and the critters who depend on them—as well as plants that produce important fall berries. This hands-on wander along shady paths will open your mind to the complex and remarkable rhythm of the seasons at China Camp—a wonderful way to change the way you see the park no matter when or how you enjoy this special place.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Saturday, July 26
Time: 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Location: north end of Knight Drive, San Rafael
Difficulty: moderate 2 mile walk
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 8 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-07-26 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No experience or long-term commitment is necessary. Just come wearing long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget a filled water bottle, work gloves, and sunscreen! Please note that pets are not allowed on our trails, so we kindly ask that you leave your furry friends at home.
We look forward to seeing you out on the trails!
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Saturday, July 26 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Naturalist Book Club - Carbon: The book of life
2025-07-27 19:00 - 20:00 | CA
This month’s undoubtedly lively discussion will dig into one of Earth’s essential and fascinating elements as we discuss Carbon: The Book of Life by bestselling author, Paul Hawken.
From the publisher’s website:
“Here, Paul Hawken looks at the flow of life through the lens of carbon. Embracing a panoramic view of carbon’s omnipresence, he explores how this ubiquitous and essential element extends into every aperture of existence and shapes the entire fabric of life… In this stirring, hopeful, and deeply humane book, Hawken illuminates the subtle connections between carbon and our collective human experience and asks us to see nature, carbon, and ourselves as exquisitely intertwined—inseparably connected.”
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Sunday, July 27
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: online meeting; details emailed with registration confirmation
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 12 and up
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-07-29 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No experience or long-term commitment is necessary. Just come wearing long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Don’t forget a filled water bottle, work gloves, and sunscreen! Please note that pets are not allowed on our trails, so we kindly ask that you leave your furry friends at home.
We look forward to seeing you out on the trails!
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Tuesday, July 29 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-08-06 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Wednesday, August 6 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Full moon hike: August’s “Sturgeon Moon”
2025-08-09 19:30 - 21:45 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
There’s something fishy about this month’s full moon. The name “Sturgeon Moon” may seem like a bit of a head scratcher, but it’s a name that’s rooted in Native American lore from the East Coast. For those cultures, this month’s moonrise marks prime time for snagging lake sturgeon in eastern lakes and rivers.
Here on the West Coast, we too have sturgeon. The staggeringly large white sturgeon—growing up to 20 feet long—thrives in the murky waters of San Pablo Bay, right off China Camp. This federally endangered species is North America’s largest freshwater fish, though it also thrives in brackish bay waters like those fronting our park. While we won’t spy any of these watery monsters on our full moon hike, we will take in August’s luminous moonrise from a stellar vantage point overlooking the bay.
Be sure to arrive by 7:30 p.m. (hike starts promptly at 7:45 p.m.).
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Saturday, August 9
Time: 7:30 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: moderate 3.5-mile round trip hike with 500-foot ascent
Cost: free to FOCC members $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-08-14 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No previous experience or long-term commitment required. Wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes (no sandals!). Bring a filled water bottle, work gloves, and wear sunscreen (bug spray optional). For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Special Brown-Bag Lunch Day: After our work morning, bring your own lunch for an informal gathering with fellow volunteers at China Camp Village. Cold drinks provided by Friends of China Camp.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Thursday, August 14 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Birding walk: fledglings flapping!
2025-08-16 08:00 - 10:00 | Turtle Back Trailhead
While the flurry of nesting activity has wrapped up around the park, there’s still lots of activity going on in China Camp’s forests, meadows, and marshlands. The hungry nestlings from spring and early summer have turned into enthusiastic fledglings, flapping mightily (and sometimes crash-landing) as they strengthen their muscles and sharpen their flying skills. We’ll be looking for the offspring of the park’s osprey and white-tailed kite parents, as well as ubiquitous dark-eyed juncos and spotted towhees.
We’ll also be on the lookout for birds that migrate out of the park for winter, stuffing themselves to put on essential fat for their long flights to warmer southern climes.
Date: Saturday, August 16
Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Location: Turtle Back Trail trailhead
Difficulty: easy ½-mile walk
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-08-20 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Wednesday, August 20 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Heritage Day Festival
2025-08-23 11:00 - 15:00 | China Camp Village, 100 China Camp Village Rd, San Rafael, CA, CA, 94901, United States
China Camp’s signature festival is back! Watch the historic China Camp Village come alive with thunderous drumming, shimmering costumes, and the wide smiles of Chinese lions. Snack on steamed buns, play mahjong, enjoy performances of traditional music, and hear childhood anecdotes from Milton Quan, member of the last shrimp-fishing family to live at China Camp. Kids’ activities include building toy boats and making dragon kites—perfect for our breezy shoreline. And come hang a wish from our Chinese Wishing Tree!
This event is made possible by Friends of China Camp, the Marin Chinese Cultural Association, the Redwood Empire Chinese Cultural Association, California State Parks, and the San Francisco Maritime National Historic Park.
All events and activities will take place at China Camp’s historic village.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
11 a.m.: Opening remarks
11:10 a.m.: Chinese Lion Dancers
11:35 a.m.: Chinese Dragon Dancers
Noon: Grace Quan shrimp-fishing junk sails in to the pier
12:10 p.m.: Melody Yan and Chinese Guzheng Dancers
12:30 p.m.: Cake and Celebration of Frank Quan’s 100th Birthday
12:35 p.m.: San Francisco Guqin and Xiao Music Society
1:15 p.m.: Martial Arts demonstration and performance
1:30 p.m.: Tai Chi class
1:45 p.m.: Talk by Milton Quan, member of the last shrimp-fishing family at China Camp (presented in the Village Museum)
————————————————-
Ongoing activities: toy-boat and paper-kite making, Chinese games for all, Chinese Wishing Tree, exhibit by local artist Michael Feldman, delicious food and drink.

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-08-28 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Thursday, August 28 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Naturalist’s Book Club: The Narrow Edge
2025-08-31 19:00 - 20:00 | CA
The full title of this month’s great read, The Narrow Edge: A Tiny Bird, An Ancient Crab & An Epic Journey, explores the remarkable relationship between humans and two surprising species. This fascinating book by award-winning nature writer Deborah Cramer will undoubtedly spark an interesting discussion at this month’s online meeting. Join us!
From the publisher’s website:
“Each year tiny sandpipers—red knots—undertake a near miraculous 19,000-mile journey from one end of the earth to the other and back. In this firsthand account, Deborah Cramer accompanies them on their extraordinary odyssey along the length of two continents, tracking birds from remote Tierra del Fuego to the icy Arctic. On the full moon of spring’s highest tides, she seeks out horseshoe crabs, ancient, primordial animals whose eggs are essential to migrating shorebirds, and whose blue blood, unbeknownst to most people, safeguards human health. The Narrow Edge offers unique insight into how the lives of humans, red knots, and horseshoe crabs are intertwined, and is an inspiring portrait of loss and resilience, of the tenacity of birds, and the courage of the many people who bird by bird and beach by beach, keep red knots flying.”
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.

Date: Sunday, August 31
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: online meeting; details emailed with registration confirmation
Cost: free for FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 12 and up
Maximum attendees: 30
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-09-06 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Saturday, September 6 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Nature Journaling Workshop
2025-09-07 09:00 - 11:30 | Miwok Meadows Picnic Area, https://maps.app.goo.gl/4hXk4amjPvRVWkuj8, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Celebrate Biodiversity Days (presented by the California Natural Resources Agency, September 6-14) by taking part in our upcoming workshop on nature journaling. Learn how this simple practice helps you pay closer attention to the natural world around you. You’ll get tips on using drawings, notes, and measurements to record your observations. Best of all: there’s no “right” way to journal. What you do, and how you do it, is up to you. Just slow down, be curious, and create a memory of your experience in nature.
This fun workshop is open to all levels of nature lovers—no art experience or talent is necessary. It’s all about mindfulness and curiosity. Get started with intro activities, then enjoy quiet time on your own to record observations and questions. There will be plenty of time to play around with drawing pencils, watercolors, and more. Suggested journaling items to bring will be included with your registration email.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Sunday, September 7
Time: 9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Miwok Meadows
Difficulty: easy (short walk at your own pace)
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
ADA accessible
RESERVE NOW

Full Moon Hike
2025-09-07 18:15 - 21:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Celebrate the Chinese Mid-Autumn Festival, also called the Moon Festival, with an invigorating hike to watch the moonrise over San Pablo Bay. The full moon in September, known as the “Harvest Moon,” occurs closest to the fall equinox. The name reflects this moon’s extended period of moonlight, which once helped farmers with their autumn harvests. After the hike, enjoy traditional Chinese mooncakes with your fellow hikers.
Arrive by 6:15 p.m. Hike starts at 6:30 p.m. sharp to catch the moonrise at 7:36 p.m.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Sunday, September 7
Time: 6:15 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: moderate (3.5-mile round-trip hike with 500-foot ascent)
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-09-09 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No previous experience or long-term commitment required. Wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes (no sandals!). Bring a filled water bottle, work gloves, and wear sunscreen (bug spray optional). For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Special Brown-Bag Lunch Day: After our work morning, bring your own lunch for an informal gathering with fellow volunteers at China Camp Village. Cold drinks provided by Friends of China Camp.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Tuesday, September 9 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Bird Walk: Fall Migration
2025-09-13 08:00 - 17:00 | Turtle Back Trailhead
The calendar may say September, but for wild birds, it’s go time. With winter just weeks away, birds are gearing up to start the great fall migration. Between September and November, a staggering 70 percent of all bird species in North America migrate south for winter. In Northern California, that translates to some 200 species that take part in this massive winged journey to warmer climes.
Join us as we keep our binos focused on winter migrants passing through China Camp, as well as spring and summer residents taking wing and heading south. We’ll be on the lookout for various species of swallows, orange-crowned warblers, ruby-crowned kinglets, ash-throated flycatchers, Western bluebirds, spotted towhees, and maybe even a golden eagle!
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Location: Turtle Back Trail trailhead
Difficulty: easy (1½ miles on mostly flat trails)
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Junior Rangers: Wildlife Olympics
2025-09-13 10:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Village, 100 China Camp Village Rd, San Rafael, CA, CA, 94901, United States
China Camp is home to amazing animal athletes. Look at those Pacific chorus frogs and grasshoppers leap! Check out the crazy wingbeats of those tiny Anna’s hummingbirds! And talk about weightlifting—those gray squirrels load up on acorns and then leap from branch to branch. Amazing!
Learn about these awesome animal antics at our special China Camp Wildlife Olympics for Junior Rangers. Young naturalists will learn about the critters that truly wow us with their athletic feats. We’ll even have our own special Olympic-style fun—complete with medals!—as we lift, flap, jump, dive, and more. Join us for this lively, hands-on morning of fun and learning designed especially for your little naturalist.
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Saturday, September 13
Time: 10 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Village
Difficulty: easy
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 7 to 9; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
ADA accessible
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-09-17 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Wednesday, September 17 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-09-25 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Thursday, September 25 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Naturalist’s Book Club: Bay Area Wildlife
2025-09-28 19:00 - 20:00 | CA
We are not alone. In fact, here in the Bay Area, we are downright outnumbered by the region’s incredible array of native species, from tiny beetles to spectacular mountain lions. During this month’s book club meeting, we will discuss Bay Area Wildlife: An Irreverent Guide, which aims to shed light on some of our most memorable native species.
From the author’s website:
“The San Francisco Bay Area is an exceptional bioregion. And the diverse and magnificent collection of creatures that call the Bay Area home have some surprising, unusual, and entertaining behaviors. Think you know your animal neighbors? Crack open Bay Area Wildlife: An Irreverent Guide, and let author Jeff Miller and illustrator Obi Kaufmann show you who we’re really living alongside.
Bay Area Wildlife introduces you to over 100 native creatures, spanning mammalian, marine, avian, piscine, reptilian, amphibian, and invertebrate species. This informative primer is a treasure map for regional wildlife as well as a conservation call to readers to join the ranks of the world’s wildlife defenders.”
Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Sunday, September 28
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: online meeting; details emailed with registration confirmation
Cost: free for FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-10-04 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp works tirelessly to protect and preserve the beauty of our beloved park—but we can’t do it without amazing volunteers like you!
Come spend a morning outdoors, caring for the trails and facilities all over the park. It’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air, get some exercise, meet fellow nature lovers, and even learn something new.
No experience? No problem! We welcome all helping hands—no long-term commitment required. Just wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, and sturdy closed-toe shoes. Be sure to bring sunscreen, a filled water bottle, and your can-do spirit! (Please leave pets at home.)
For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Saturday, October 4 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to moderately strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult

Full moon hike
2025-10-05 16:45 - 19:30 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
With fall’s return, longer nights conjure up spirits. From old European traditions, Halloween’s rites fill the night. Here on land now known as China Camp State Park, Native American tribes used the full moon’s movement and its cyclical changes to mark the seasons, the passage of time, and cycles of renewal. Join us to rekindle our connections with the night sky through the rise of the ghostly “Hunter’s Moon,” as it rises over the East Bay Hills. (Note: This hike will take place the evening before the actual full moon. The moon will still be very close to full—96 percent—so still a spectacular sight as it climbs into the ghostly night sky.)
Arrive by 4:45 p.m.; hike starts promptly at 5 p.m. to catch the moonrise. Space is limited; registration is required. Cancellations notified via email.
Date: Sunday, October 5
Time: 4:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: moderate (3.5-mile round-trip hike with 500-foot ascent)
Cost: free to FOCC members; $5 donation appreciated for non-members
Ages: 10 and older; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
RESERVE NOW

Give-back morning at China Camp
2025-10-07 09:00 - 12:00 | China Camp Ranger Station, 101 Peacock Gap Trail, San Rafael, CA, 94901, United States
Friends of China Camp, a non-profit organization, works hard to keep our park safe and beautiful—but we can’t do it without our dedicated team of volunteers! Join us for a fun and rewarding morning of giving back. This is a great time to meet fellow nature enthusiasts, get some fresh air and exercise, and maybe even pick up a new skill along the way.
No previous experience or long-term commitment required. Wear long pants, a long-sleeve shirt, and sturdy shoes (no sandals!). Bring a filled water bottle, work gloves, and wear sunscreen (bug spray optional). For groups of five or more, contact our volunteer maintenance coordinator at kjsmead@comcast.net.
Special Brown-Bag Lunch Day: After our work morning, bring your own lunch for an informal gathering with fellow volunteers at China Camp Village. Cold drinks provided by Friends of China Camp.
Cancellations will be posted on our events calendar.
Dates: Tuesday, October 7 (no need to register; just show up)
Time: 9 a.m. – noon
Location: China Camp Ranger Station
Difficulty: easy to strenuous (you choose)
Ages: 14 and up; under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult
