Mackerricher State Park Campground
4.6568 reviews24100 MacKerricher Park Road, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Mackerricher State Park Campground
$0.00 - $10.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use is free, while overnight camping fees apply. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or use of the RV dump station ($10).
About this campground
Nestled along California's rugged coastline, MacKerricher State Park Campground welcomes adventurers with over 140 thoughtfully designed campsites. Whether you're seeking the intimacy of a walk-in site, planning a family reunion at one of the spacious family sites, or organizing a group adventure, this coastal haven offers the perfect basecamp. Wake to the rhythmic sound of Pacific waves and spend your days exploring pristine beaches, while the serene waters of Lake Cleone provide a peaceful inland retreat just moments away.
The campground offers family campsites, walk-in sites, and group camping areas. Tents, RVs, and hike/bike camping are supported.
Historical SignificanceThis treasured coastline carries deep stories within its sandy shores and windswept bluffs. Once home to the Mendocino Indian Reservation, these lands later became part of the Union Lumber Company's vast holdings, witnessing the rise of California's timber industry. In 1952, this remarkable landscape found its true calling as a state park, preserving its natural splendor and cultural heritage for generations of visitors who continue to create their own memories among the dunes and forests.
Weather and SeasonsThe coastal climate here dances between sun and fog, creating an ever-changing atmospheric canvas that keeps every visit unique. Summer days bring gentle warmth perfect for beachcombing, though wise campers pack layers for the crisp mornings when marine fog embraces the coastline. As evening falls, the temperature dips invitingly—ideal for gathering around campfires. Winter transforms the park into a moody masterpiece, with occasional rain showers that enhance the dramatic beauty of crashing waves, while temperatures remain surprisingly mild for cozy camping adventures.
ElevationSet at sea level where the continent meets the endless Pacific, the campground offers an intimate connection with the ocean's powerful presence, with gentle terrain that makes exploration accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryMacKerricher reveals nature's artistry through an extraordinary tapestry of ecosystems that unfold with each step of your journey. Windswept beaches stretch for miles, inviting long walks where you might discover hidden tide pools teeming with colorful sea stars and anemones. Dramatic bluffs provide front-row seats to watch harbor seals lounging on rocky outcrops below. Inland, ancient forests offer shaded trails, while the wetlands surrounding Lake Cleone serve as a vital sanctuary for migratory birds—bringing binoculars is essential. Sand dunes sculpted by coastal winds create an almost otherworldly landscape where beach grasses dance in the ocean breeze.
Geological RegionPerched on Mendocino County's spectacular coastline, MacKerricher showcases the raw beauty where tectonic forces meet oceanic power. This dynamic meeting point has sculpted a remarkable diversity of landscapes—from wave-carved headlands and pristine beaches to sheltered forests and vibrant wetland ecosystems. The interplay between land and sea has created a geological wonderland of tide pools carved into ancient rock formations, while offshore rocks and sea stacks stand as monuments to millions of years of coastal evolution. Each habitat supports its own community of wildlife, making this stretch of California coast a living classroom of natural history.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral accessible facilities are available, including campsites, parking areas, restrooms, picnic tables, and trails like Laguna Point Interpretive Trail. A beach wheelchair is available for reservation.
Sites SizeMost campsites are described as large, flat, and accommodating for various camping setups including tents and RVs. Exceptions include smaller sites such as #105.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across campsites. Sites like #92 and #23 are tucked away with natural surroundings, while others like #93 and #94 lack privacy due to open layouts.
Total Campsites140 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #92 is ideal for privacy and natural light. Sites #88 and #91 offer good privacy near the beach path. Site #105 is small but private.
Best CampsitesBest campsites include #22, #30, #43, #45, #64, #65, #66, and #68. Site #92 is noted for its privacy and aesthetics.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Each reservation allows up to 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each campsite allows up to 8 persons (including children).
Groups
Group tent-only sites can accommodate up to 40 and 60 campers. Reservations are required during peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground is divided into loops including Surfwood, East Pinewood, and West Pinewood. Walk-in campsites are at the south edge of Surfwood.
Open and Closed SeasonCampgrounds are closed annually from December 2nd to December 23rd for site renovations. West Pinewood Campground is open year-round, but Surfwood and East Pinewood are seasonal.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at reservecalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available; site availability is not assured and re-registration must be done at the entrance station on the morning of departure.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through ReserveCalifornia. Specific penalty terms are not detailed in the authoritative source.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and surrounding park area offer ample recreational activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and tide pool exploration. Seasonal programs such as Junior Rangers and guided whale-watching walks are also available.
HikingThe park has numerous hiking trails, from accessible boardwalks like the Laguna Point Interpretive Trail to multi-use trails such as the Haul Road. Trails offer scenic views of the beach, dunes, and headlands.
FishingFishing is allowed at Lake Cleone, a freshwater lake stocked with trout. Visitors can fish from the shore or non-motorized boats.
BikingBiking opportunities include multi-use trails such as the Haul Road, which connects visitors to secluded beaches and forested areas.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is permitted at Lake Cleone. Boating infrastructure such as launches and docks is not detailed.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a major draw, with opportunities to see seals, sea lions, gray whales, and over 280 bird species. Docent-led whale-watching walks are a seasonal highlight.
Beach activitiesThe park features pristine sandy beaches, tide pools, and secluded coves. Popular activities include beachcombing and tide pooling.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs include free Junior Ranger activities, campfire programs, and whale-watching walks during spring.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated rings and must be attended at all times. Firewood must not be collected from the park.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsKnown hazards include cold and unpredictable ocean waves, wildlife such as raccoons and skunks, and occasional mountain lion sightings. Visitors are advised to stay back from the water’s edge.
Active alertsOngoing renovations of campground restrooms may cause noise disruptions. Some campgrounds remain closed seasonally.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital is Mendocino Coast District Hospital in Fort Bragg, approximately 3 miles away. Ranger station on-site for immediate emergencies. Police services available in Fort Bragg.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is from March to September, with high demand for reservations.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. Specific schedules or pickup details are not provided in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Lake Cleone and the Pacific Ocean, with tide pools, seal habitats, and migratory bird viewing areas.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include overcrowded restrooms during construction periods, noise from renovations, and lack of privacy in certain campsites.
HostCamp hosts are friendly and provide firewood for purchase. Hosts are stationed at Surfwood and West Pinewood loops.
Campground Map
24100 MacKerricher Park Road, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Driving directionsFrom Highway 1, three miles north of Fort Bragg near Cleone, take Mill Creek Drive west toward the park entrance. The park encompasses land west of Cleone and a strip of beach between Fort Bragg and Ten Mile River.
The park can be accessed via a paved road leading directly from Highway 1. Seasonal closures might affect internal campgrounds, but the main park road remains accessible year-round.Nearby places
Fort Bragg: 3 miles (approximately 10 minutes by car). Cleone: less than 1 mile (approximately 2 minutes by car). Mendocino: 13 miles (approximately 25 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and firewood are available at Fort Bragg, approximately 3 miles away. A house selling firewood is located on Highway 1, just 3-5 minutes from the park entrance.
Camper Reviews
4.7
68 reviews
Mackerricher State Park Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the park's natural beauty, variety of activities, and well-maintained facilities. Complaints often involve restroom renovations and lack of privacy in some campsites.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects include proximity to the ocean, clean facilities, friendly staff, and diverse wildlife sightings. Reviews often mention engaging programs like the Junior Rangers and whale-watching...
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Complaints include noise from construction, crowded restrooms during peak times, and privacy issues at certain campsites. One user reported an invasive boar encounter, which was dismissed by staff.
Visitors recommend bringing layers for cold weather, quarters for showers, and making reservations well in advance during peak season. Some suggest buying firewood from locals outside the park.
Peak summer is popular for outdoor activities but can be crowded. Winter and spring are best for wildlife viewing, including whale and seal sightings.
1. 'Falling asleep to the sounds of the ocean was awesome!' 2. 'The tide pools are amazing! Kids will love exploring.' 3. 'Bring quarters if you want to shower.' 4. 'Camp hosts were helpful with...
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Best sites include #92 for privacy and natural light, #88 for proximity to the beach path, and #45 for spaciousness. Sites like #93 and #94 are noted for beach access but lack privacy.
Accessibility features receive positive feedback, although beach access with mobility aids is challenging. One user noted: 'Fairly disabled accessible. Beach access was hard with mobility aids, but I...
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Pets are allowed but must be leashed and under control. Reviews mention cleaning up after pets and keeping them confined at night. Some areas like Seal Rookery are off-limits to dogs.
Last updated July 31, 2025