MacKerricher State Park is one of the most popular spots in Fort Bragg, California. Day use is free, and the park has two entrances. One entrance will take you past the Purple Rose Mexican Restaurant to the beach & boardwalk.
MacKerricher State Park is a highlight for visitors and residents alike. The beach and campground got its name from Duncan MacKerricher, who bought the 1,000-acre property in 1864. MacKerricher and his wife used the land to raise livestock and allowed a railway to be built on the land. The property was sold to the state by their heirs in 1949.
Today, the beautiful seascape can be enjoyed by nature enthusiasts between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. With a myriad of activities to choose from, whether it be fishing, camping, horseback riding, or just enjoying the scenery, there is no end to the fun. And the bonus that there is no fee for day use makes it a very economical family excursion.
Top Ten Features of MacKerricher State Park
- Huge, amazing free day-use beach
- Beautiful boardwalk leading to prime whale-watching locations
- Miles of hiking trails that take you through awesome scenic natural resources
- Tent camping spaces for up to 8 people with parking for up to 3 vehicles
- Walk-in campsites
- RV/trailer camping with space for vehicles up to 35 feet long
- Bathrooms and showers
- Handicap accessibility including beach wheelchairs
- Pet friendly areas
- Guided horseback riding tours
The main entrance will lead you to the Visitor’s Center & Gift Shop. There are lots of interesting things to see including a Humpback Whale skull & a Gray Whale skeleton. There are many walking trails at MacKerricher. The gift shop has beach wheelchairs that can be checked out at no cost.
From the main entrance, sightseers can walk along numerous trails, head to the boardwalk, or take a bike ride around Lake Cleone. A nearby ranch conducts tours by horseback along selected trails.
MacKerricher has two campgrounds. One is set up for tents, trailers & RVs. Camp sites are available between March and September.
Environmental camping sites allow up to 8 people to occupy a camp site. Walk in sites are available, as are tent camping sites, where no generators are allowed.
Sites designated for recreational vehicles are available as well. Camping areas include bathrooms and pay showers. Firewood is available for purchase at the Visitor’s Center. Check-out time is noon. Guided day hikes and other activities are held year round. For more information and to make reservations, check out their website.
There are many things to do at MacKerricher- hiking, picnicing, whale watching, or just hanging out. It really is a peaceful, relaxing place to be. If you liked this virtual field trip to Mackerricher, like & share it so others can see it as well. And be sure to subscribe so you can travel with me to more fun places.