MacKerricher is probably best-known for the amazing tide pools along the coast. People are welcome to walk along the rocks and get an up-close look at sea life. There are starfish, sea urchins, crabs, sea anemones, and larger fish just a little way out. You can reach in and feel a prickly urchin or get your finger caught by the sticky anemones. Of course, camping itself is great fun, and there are all kinds of trails in and around the park for exploring.
Lots of locals camp here, so you should make some quick friends. Mendocino County folk pride themselves on being laid-back and friendly. They also love to showcase their local treasures, so ask if you are looking for anything in particular; they might be able to help!
Quick Tips:
Take it from a girl raised in the area: you'll need a light jacket when the ocean breezes come up in the mornings and at night. Don't leave home without it!
Right across the highway from the park, there is a ranch that rents out horses for rides through MacKerricher and along the beach. Prices are reasonable, and it's a good way to see the views.
Look for campgrounds 7-10 to be open. They're known to be private and beautiful (inside coastal forest), all with ocean views!
Bring the kids. Besides the usual fun kids have camping, they'll love playing in the tide pools, finding sea creatures, and exploring the coastal woods.
Best Way To Get Around:
It's probably best to leave the RV at home. You'll want something that you can easily drive around in, because nearby Fort Bragg (south on Hwy 1) is really not to be missed (the resturaunts are famous for great seafood)! Besides that, drive north for a few minutes and you'll find towering sand dunes right on the beach - they are so much fun to slide down (but real work to actually climb) - and beautiful and private Ten Mile Beach.