Is Mackerricher State Park Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mackerricher State Park Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mackerricher State Park Campground before I book?

Yes! Mackerricher State Park Campground has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Mackerricher State Park Campground is open Peak season is from March to September, with high demand for reservations.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Yes, Mackerricher State Park Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Mackerricher State Park Campground have?

Mackerricher State Park Campground has 140 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mackerricher State Park Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Mackerricher State Park Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Popular activities at Mackerricher State Park Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mackerricher State Park Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mackerricher State Park Campground?

Fire policies at Mackerricher State Park Campground: Fires are allowed only in designated rings and must be attended at all times. Firewood must not be collected from the park.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.70

139 reviews

24100 MacKerricher Park Road, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Top 3% in CASpring

BReport Card

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds California#3

Quick Facts

62 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

140 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

62 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Reservable

Sites

140 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Mackerricher State Park Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

Day-use is free, while overnight camping fees apply. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or use of the RV dump station ($10).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

707-964-9112interp@parks.ca.gov

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Campground Map

24100 MacKerricher Park Road, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Mackerricher State Park Campground

24100 MacKerricher Park Road, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

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.

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.

Weather at Mackerricher State Park Campground

Current alert: Ongoing renovations of campground restrooms may cause noise disruptions. Some campgrounds remain closed seasonally.

Best Time to Camp at Mackerricher State Park Campground

Spring offers the best conditions. Daytime highs run 55–65°F, nights drop to the 40s–50s. Gray whales migrate past from late winter into spring. Wildflowers cover the coastal bluffs. Trails stay less crowded than summer, and tidepooling hits peak at spring low tides. Summer brings gentle warmth for beachcombing but expect marine fog in early mornings. Layers are necessary. Winter sees occasional rain and dramatic wave action, though temperatures remain mild enough for camping year-round.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in CA

Spring cited as best: mild temps, whale migration, wildflowers and prime wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is from March to September, with high demand for reservations.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Campgrounds 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.

About Mackerricher State Park Campground

MacKerricher State Park Campground sits on Mendocino County's coast near Fort Bragg with 140 sites for tent, RV, and group camping. The campground spreads across multiple loops. Surfwood, East Pinewood, and West Pinewood. With walk-in sites on Surfwood's south edge. Pacific waves break a short walk from camp, while Lake Cleone's freshwater wetlands lie inland.

The campground offers family campsites, walk-in sites, and group camping areas. Tents, RVs, and hike/bike camping are supported.

Historical Significance

The Mendocino Indian Reservation once occupied this coastline. The Union Lumber Company later controlled the land during California's timber boom. The area became a state park in 1952.

Weather and SeasonsSpring offers the best conditions. Daytime highs run 55–65°F, nights drop to the 40s–50s. Gray whales migrate past from late winter into spring. Wildflowers cover the coastal bluffs. Trails stay less crowded than summer, and tidepooling hits peak at spring low tides. Summer brings gentle warmth for beachcombing but expect marine fog in early mornings. Layers are necessary. Winter sees occasional rain and dramatic wave action, though temperatures remain mild enough for camping year-round.

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 SceneryWave-carved headlands and offshore sea stacks mark where tectonic plates meet the Pacific. Tide pools fill ancient rock formations at low tide, exposing sea stars and anemones. Harbor seals haul out on rocky outcrops below coastal bluffs. Inland forests shelter the campsites, while Lake Cleone's wetlands draw migratory birds. Sand dunes shaped by ocean wind separate beach from forest. The coastline sits at 62 feet elevation, low enough that fog drifts through camp on summer mornings.

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.

Scenic ViewsMost campsites offer access to beachside views, rocky tide pools, and coastal vistas. Highlights include seal and whale watching from headlands.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not offer hotel-style lodge accommodations. Firewood can be purchased from nearby locations, as mentioned in a review: 'The best place to get firewood was a lady right off the Hwy 1.'

Programs & ActivitiesEducational programs include free Junior Ranger activities, campfire programs, and whale-watching walks during spring.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutMost sites are large and flat, accommodating tents and RVs on level ground. Spacing varies. Some sites have natural screening, others sit exposed in open layouts. Surfwood loop holds the walk-in sites at its southern edge.

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.

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.

Site SizeMost campsites are described as large, flat, and accommodating for various camping setups including tents and RVs. Exceptions include smaller sites such as #105.

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 SitesSite #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 CampsitesSites #22, #30, #43, #45, #64, #65, #66, and #68 get consistent mentions. Site #92 offers the most privacy, tucked into natural surroundings. Site #23 also has good screening. Avoid #93 and #94 if you want seclusion. Both sit in open areas with little buffer. Site #105 runs smaller than most.

Need help booking Mackerricher State Park Campground?

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ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

RV Dump Station

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Mackerricher State Park Campground

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.

Wildlife viewing5.0/5Top 1% in California

Seal haul-outs, sea lions, gray whale migrations and abundant shorebirds are major draws.

Beach activities5.0/5Top 4% in California

Pristine sandy beaches, tide pools, secluded coves and easy beach access from many sites.

Hiking4.0/5

Numerous trails incl. Laguna Point boardwalk and Haul Road multi-use trail for coastal hikes.

Fishing4.0/5

Lake Cleone is stocked with trout; shore and non-motorized boat fishing allowed.

Biking4.0/5Top 13% in California

Boating3.5/5

Non-motorized boating permitted on Lake Cleone; launches/docks mentioned for small craft.

Signature experiences

Photography5.0/5Headlands, sea stacks, tide pools and wildlife (seals, whales) offer excellent photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsKnown 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.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are included at family sites, providing secure storage for campers in bear-prone areas.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in designated rings and must be attended at all times. Firewood must not be collected from the park.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest 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.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to Lake Cleone and the Pacific Ocean, with tide pools, seal habitats, and migratory bird viewing areas.

Camp HostCamp hosts are friendly and provide firewood for purchase. Hosts are stationed at Surfwood and West Pinewood loops.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

139 reviews

Top-Rated

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

Based on 139 reviews

What Campers Love

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...

Based on 139 reviews

Common Concerns

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.

Based on 139 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

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.

Based on 139 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

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.

Based on 139 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak summer is popular for outdoor activities but can be crowded. Winter and spring are best for wildlife viewing, including whale and seal sightings.

Based on 139 reviews

Camper Quotes

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...

Based on 139 reviews

Accessibility Features

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...

Based on 139 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

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.

Based on 139 reviews

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Mackerricher State Park Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

Day-use is free, while overnight camping fees apply. Additional fees may apply for extra vehicles or use of the RV dump station ($10).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

707-964-9112interp@parks.ca.gov

Go if

Spring whale-watching and tidepooling are the real draws here. Site #92 gets you privacy and natural screening; site #88 puts you closest to the beach path. Bring layers for fog mornings and quarters for the showers.

Skip if

Restroom renovations are creating noise and crowding right now, so light sleepers will notice. Open sites like #93 and #94 offer almost no buffer from neighbors, and a handful of reviews describe interactions that suggest campers from outside the local mainstream may not always f

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Russian Gulch State Park Campground sits in a coastal redwood grove along the Mendocino coast, offering 26 small, fairly secluded sites at $45 per night. The campground has no hookups or dump station, but the setting delivers both ocean access and forest trails within walking distance. Sites are open May through Labor Day, with flush toilets, hot showers, and bear lockers.

Mackerricher State Park Campground

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Quick Facts

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About Mackerricher State Park Campground

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