We’ve taken multiple trips to MacKerricher State Park in Fort Bragg, CA. We enjoy staying in the Surfwood campground loop. We’ve stayed at sites 133 and 137.
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The Campsite
When we visit MacKerricher, we prefer the Surfwood campground loop. This loop is closest to the boardwalk trail and, for the most part, the sites feel private. Many of the campsites are surrounded by large bushes, giving the illusion of seclusion despite having neighbors nearby.
MacKerricher Campsite #133 (Surfwood Loop)
Parking our 20-foot trailer in site #133 was no problem. We had plenty of space for our tow vehicle and some extra space for a visitor to park. The site had a large log separating the parking pad from the rest of the campsite, which prevented us from laying down an outdoor rug.
The campsite had a fire pit, but it was situated in a weird spot—off to the side, making it impossible to place chairs all the way around the campfire. It also seemed too close to the hedges to safely use for a campfire. We opted to use our propane fire pit instead, which we could situate in the middle of camp without worrying about catching the surrounding hedges on fire.
MacKerricher Campsite #137 (Surfwood Loop)
Campsite 137 easily accommodated our 20-foot travel trailer and two trucks.
The site had logs around the perimeter of the parking spot, which were great for the kids to climb on but not ideal for the trailer. We managed to put out a small doormat, but there was no space for a full rug. Additionally, to cook near the trailer or be under the awning, we had to step over a log.
The site also had a fire pit, picnic table, and bear locker. Overall, it was a nice campsite, close enough to walk to the beach and the boardwalk trail.
The Best Campsites
- Sites 75 & 76
- These sites work well together. Site 75 is suitable for a trailer, and site 76 has camp on the opposite side.
- Sites 87 & 88
- These sites are well-positioned for travel trailers and work well together.
- Site 105
- A nice, private site.
- Site 113
- This site has the best ocean views. The camp area is situated behind the parking pad, which isn’t ideal for a trailer but might be worth it for the ocean views.
- Site 114
- This site also has good ocean views and is well-situated for a travel trailer. It is wide open, offering great views but little privacy.
- Sites 113, 114, & 124
- These three sites form a triangular position and would provide a large space in the middle, ideal for a group.
- Site 122
- This campsite offers a nice view of Lake Cleone, with lots of shade in the main camp area and sun on the parking pad, allowing you to take advantage of solar power.
The Activities
There are many things to do in Fort Bragg.
Cowlicks Ice Cream
Cowlick’s Ice Cream is a homemade ice cream parlor that is always busy but delicious and worth the wait.
Skunk Train
You can ride the Skunk Train in Fort Bragg. It takes you to Glen Blair Bar, where you can get off, walk around, and enjoy a beverage. The train is a lot of fun for the kids, and you can even bring your dog. Everyone, including the dog, needs a ticket. There is also an option to ride rail bikes, some of which have dog crates so you can bring your dog along.
Botanical Gardens
Another fun activity in Fort Bragg is visiting the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. The gardens are beautiful, and the kids enjoyed exploring. The trail felt like a hike but was easy and not more strenuous than a walk. Dogs are also allowed in the gardens.
MacKerricher Boardwalk Trail
At MacKerricher State Park, there’s a large boardwalk along the coast with a few stops along the way. You can stop and walk down to the tide pools or enjoy some seal watching.
Pudding Creek Beach
Pudding Creek Beach is great for kids to play with sand toys and fly kites. After the beach, you can walk across the Pudding Creek Trestle Bridge directly above the beach. We parked right at the bridge, making it easy for the kids. Along the bridge, there are tons of locks left by people to signify love for another, with names and dates written on many.
Glass Beach
Glass Beach is both beautiful and sad. It got its name from the small pieces of glass that the ocean has turned into colorful pebbles over time. The area was once a garbage dump, and the glass and other debris have transformed into beauty. Sadly, many people collect the glass pebbles as souvenirs so there is less and less.
Otis Johnson Park
Fort Bragg also has a nice hiking trail hidden in the city called Otis Johnson Park. It’s a short, easy trail filled with ferns and redwood trees. It’s a great trail for kids and families.
The Dog-Friendly Hiking
One reason we like MacKerricher State Park is the dog-friendly hiking trails. Dogs aren’t allowed everywhere, but they are allowed in the areas we wanted to visit. When we entered the park, we received a brochure titled “Enjoy MacKerricher State Park with Your Dog,” highlighting dog-friendly areas instead of focusing on restrictions. This positive approach was refreshing.
We primarily stuck to the boardwalk trail and around camp, where there were no restrictions for our dog. Additionally, Fort Bragg is very dog-friendly, allowing dogs on the Skunk Train, in the Botanical Gardens, at local beaches, and on the Otis Johnson trail.
The Beer
One of our favorite parts about traveling is checking out the local beer. Fort Bragg has a couple of good options. The most popular is North Coast Brewing. While we enjoy their beers, they are readily available throughout Northern California. Instead, we prefer picking up beers from Overtime Brewing, particularly their IPAs, Amarillo and Super C (Super Centennial).
The Recap
MacKerricher State Park has spacious campsites that feel private, with plenty of trails and beach access directly from the park. Nearby, there are numerous fun activities, including more beaches, trails, a spectacular garden, a train, and delicious craft beer.
Campground Details:
MacKerricher State Park
24100 Mackerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437
Can reserve online at reservecalifornia.com. Reservations open 6 months ahead at 8am PST.
