Pinewood Campground | MacKerricher State Park

For Californians, the rugged beauty of the Mendocino Coast offers an irresistible allure, a place where towering redwoods meet dramatic ocean bluffs. If your ideal escape involves the soothing sounds of the Pacific, peaceful surroundings, and convenient access to both natural wonders and charming coastal towns, then Pinewood Campground within MacKerricher State Park is a destination that perfectly fits the bill. Situated just north of Fort Bragg, this campground provides a serene and well-maintained base for exploring one of California's most picturesque regions. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, hikers can find endless trails, and anyone can simply relax and soak in the tranquil coastal atmosphere.

California is renowned for its diverse landscapes, but the Mendocino Coast holds a special magic, characterized by its dramatic cliffs, secluded beaches, and majestic forests. Pinewood Campground, as part of MacKerricher State Park, captures this essence beautifully. Visitors consistently praise it as a beloved spot, noting its "clean bathrooms and showers (coin operated)" and its "very quiet and peaceful" ambiance. This feedback underscores its appeal to those who seek a comfortable yet natural camping experience, where the focus is on relaxation and enjoying the outdoors rather than elaborate amenities. It’s a testament to the enduring charm of State Parks that offer simple comforts amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

The core appeal of Pinewood Campground lies in its unique balance of secluded serenity and easy access to a wealth of activities. While many sites are "nicely secluded" and offer a tranquil environment, the "short walk to beach and beautiful sunsets" ensures that coastal adventures are always within reach. The park's commitment to maintaining clean facilities, coupled with the presence of on-site staff like camp hosts, adds a layer of comfort and security that enhances the overall experience. For California locals, who are often looking for convenient yet impactful getaways, Pinewood Campground provides an ideal blend of peaceful retreat and active exploration, making it a compelling choice for a memorable coastal camping trip.

Pinewood Campground is located within MacKerricher State Park, at 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA. MacKerricher State Park stretches for approximately 9 miles north of Fort Bragg along the Pacific Ocean, situated on the northern Mendocino Coast of California. This prime location places campers amidst a diverse range of habitats, including beaches, bluffs, headlands, dunes, forests, and wetlands.

The accessibility of Pinewood Campground for California locals is excellent, particularly for those in Northern California. It's just a few miles north of downtown Fort Bragg on Highway 1, making it a straightforward drive for visitors from various parts of the state. The campground is nestled within the park, and while some internal roads might be narrow, they are generally paved and easily traversable for cars, tents, and RVs up to 35 feet in length. The short distance to Fort Bragg and the quaint coastal town of Mendocino (a bit further south) provides convenient access to local amenities, dining options, and attractions should you need a break from nature. This blend of remote natural beauty and proximity to local towns makes Pinewood Campground an ideal choice for both extended vacations and quick weekend getaways for Californians.

Pinewood Campground, like other camping areas within MacKerricher State Park, offers a solid range of essential services to ensure a comfortable stay in a natural setting. Based on public data and visitor reviews, here's what campers can expect:

• Campsites: Pinewood Campground (both East and West sections) offers numerous sites suitable for "tent campers and small RVs" (RVs and trailers up to 35 feet). Many sites are "nicely secluded" and nestled in coastal pine and fir forests, providing shade and privacy. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. Some sites may have food storage lockers/bear boxes.
• Restrooms: "Clean bathrooms" with flush toilets are located throughout the campground, within walking distance of most sites.
• Showers: Coin-operated hot showers are available. Reviews explicitly state that showers "require tokens, not quarters, which can be purchased from the camp host or at the kiosk." A typical shower costs "$1 for 5 minutes."
• Potable Water: Drinking water spigots are accessible throughout the campground.
• Dump Station: An RV sanitation/dump station is available within MacKerricher State Park for convenient waste disposal, though there are no hookups directly at campsites.
• Camp Host: The presence of "permanent on-site staff" and a "camp host" contributes to a well-managed and helpful environment. They can assist with tokens, firewood, and general inquiries.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted on certain trails or beaches. They must be confined to a vehicle or tent at night.
• Firewood: Firewood is available for purchase from the camp hosts, as gathering wood within the park is prohibited.
• Generators: Generators are permitted during specific hours, typically from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., but rules can vary, so it's always best to check.

While there are "No hookups" for RVs, the provided amenities ensure a pleasant and self-sufficient camping experience.

Pinewood Campground at MacKerricher State Park is celebrated for a variety of compelling features and highlights that enhance the visitor experience, making it a sought-after destination:

• Direct Beach Access and Ocean Views: A significant highlight is the "short walk to beach and beautiful sunsets." While no sites are directly on the beach, many offer "peeks of the ocean" and the "sound of gentle surf." Surfwood loop is closest (about 330 feet), followed by West Pinewood (about 660 feet). The park boasts 9 miles of coastline, perfect for beachcombing and exploring.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Consistently noted in reviews, the campground is "very quiet and peaceful," making it an ideal spot for relaxation and escaping urban noise. This tranquility is enhanced by being "nicely secluded" in many sites.
• Diverse Habitats and Wildlife: MacKerricher State Park is a natural wonderland featuring beach, bluff, headland, dune, forest, and wetland. This diversity supports abundant wildlife, including opportunities for "whale watching" (especially in winter/spring), "bird watching" (over 90 species near Lake Cleone), and observing seals at the seal watching station. Deer are also commonly spotted.
• Extensive Trails for All Ages: The park offers a network of trails for "hiking, joggers, equestrians, and bicyclists." The paved Coastal Trail (Haul Road Trail) is popular, providing "sweeping vistas of ocean beaches, dunes, and cliffs." The Laguna Point Interpretive Trail is an accessible boardwalk loop, offering stunning views and educational exhibits.
• Proximity to Lake Cleone: Lake Cleone, a freshwater lake within the park, offers opportunities for non-motorized boating (kayaking, canoeing) and fishing for trout, bass, and catfish. Some campsites are close to the lake.
• Unique Attractions Nearby: The famous Glass Beach, known for its colorful sea glass (though taking glass is discouraged), is at the south end of the park. The charming towns of Fort Bragg and Mendocino offer additional dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
• On-Site Amenities and Support: Clean flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, and the presence of friendly camp hosts ensure a comfortable and well-supported camping trip. "Friendly hosts" and "well-maintained" facilities are often praised.

These combined features create a rich and memorable outdoor experience for a wide range of campers.

For those planning a visit to Pinewood Campground at MacKerricher State Park or seeking more detailed information, here is the contact information based on available public data:

Address: 24100 MacKerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA

Phone: (707) 964-9112

Mobile Phone: +1 707-964-9112

Pinewood Campground is part of MacKerricher State Park, which is managed by California State Parks. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including reservation availability, current fees, park conditions, fire restrictions, and any temporary closures, it is highly recommended to:

• Call the park directly using the provided phone number.
• Visit the official California State Parks website for MacKerricher State Park.
• Utilize the California State Park reservation system (e.g., via ReserveCalifornia.com) for booking campsites up to six months in advance.

Checking these official sources before your trip will ensure you have all the necessary details for a smooth and enjoyable camping experience at Pinewood Campground.

For Californians, Pinewood Campground at MacKerricher State Park is an exceptionally suitable destination, offering a quintessential Northern California coastal camping experience. Its primary appeal lies in its "very quiet and peaceful" atmosphere, providing a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This tranquility, combined with "nicely secluded" campsites, allows locals to genuinely disconnect and immerse themselves in nature, whether for a quick weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

The campground’s direct access to the beautiful Mendocino Coast, with just a "short walk to beach and beautiful sunsets," is a significant draw. It caters perfectly to those who love beach activities, wildlife viewing (including whale watching and seal spotting), and exploring tide pools. The extensive network of trails, including the accessible Haul Road and Laguna Point boardwalk, ensures that hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts of all abilities can enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

While the $45 per night fee (and coin-operated showers) might be "a little expensive compared to other State Park," the overall value comes from the well-maintained facilities, the constant presence of camp hosts, and the unparalleled natural beauty. It's a prime example of why California's State Parks are so cherished. For any California local seeking a relaxing, beautiful, and activity-rich coastal camping adventure, Pinewood Campground at MacKerricher State Park offers an ideal setting for creating cherished outdoor memories that truly embody the spirit of the Golden State.

Pinewood Campground | MacKerricher State Park

24100 MacKerricher Park Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA