Turtle Back Nature Trail

Turtle Back Nature Trail
Plant Walk at Turtle Back Nature Trail, China Camp State Park
Sunday, May 17, 2026 at 10:30 am
Leader: Ann Elliott

This short but sweet trail packs a lot of native plant punch! We will experience a grove of young madrone, smooth-barked manzanita and the scent of bay laurel. Also included: the last of the spring wildflowers, views of the bay, pickleweed, sinuous marshes and several species of native oak trees.

Park on North San Pedro Rd near the Turtle Back Nature trail entrance. Parking is included in our rental of Miwok Meadows from Friends of China Camp for the CNPS Marin Chapter Potluck Picnic which follows at noon. You are welcome to stay for the picnic.

To get there, take Highway 101 to the North San Pedro Road/Marin Civic Center exit in San Rafael. Head east on North San Pedro Road and follow it through the Santa Venetia neighborhood until you see the sign for China Camp State Park. Turtle Back Nature Trail will be on your left about a half mile up the road.

Size limit 25.
If you have not done so already, please sign the CNPS Marin 2026 Waiver