This easy loop circles the Back Ranch Meadows Campground, taking you on a relaxed stroll through the woods.
Location: China Camp State Park
Length: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: easy
Shade: mosty shaded
Parking: street parking along North San Pedro Road near the trailhead ($5/vehicle, pay at the trailhead or online)
Public Transportation: n/a
WC: at campground, about 0.2 miles into the hike
Dogs: not allowed on trails, only in developed areas
Hiked: May 2021
Trail Route & Notes
This hike begins at the trailhead across the street from Turtle Back Hill. Take the trail going to the right towards Back Ranch. You’ll hike in the open for a short 0.2 miles, then you’ll see the marker for the loop. We started the loop by taking the left fork, and we were very quickly in the woods. From there, just stay on Shoreline Trail until you meet the paved road in the campground. Walk along the paved road to the right for a short distance and you’ll see the trail to your right. Cross the little bridge, then turn left to complete the loop and meet Shoreline Trail again.
We hiked this one warm evening when there were very few people on the trail, and it was a really peaceful and relaxing walk. I’d repeat this one, perhaps adding on the short 0.7-mile loop around Turtle Back Hill.
Gallery
At the trailhead, head right towards Back Ranch Meadows. 
The trail begins in the open but will soon hit tree cover. 
Shoreline Trail 
The loop starts at this marker; we started clockwise and went left. 
Shoreline Trail 
Shoreline Trail 
Shoreline Trail 
Shoreline Trail 
Shoreline Trail 
Where the trail meets the road, walk along the road to the right to meet Shoreline Trail again. 
The road meets the trail again here. 
We saw a beautiful deer while crossing over a little bridge. 
On the other side of the bridge, turn left to get back to Shoreline Trail. 
Shoreline Trail up ahead.
