Surfwood's Up!

Headlands, wetlands, lakefront, and tide pools: MacKerricher State Park in Mendocino County delivers nine miles of diverse coastline and a seaside gem for spending the night: Surfwood Campground is a laid-back oasis with 45 lush coastal campsites—including 10 secluded walk-ins close to both the Pacific Ocean and the park’s 30-acre tidal lagoon. A beach wheelchair is also available for use (free of charge) upon request.

Wetsuits dangling from makeshift drying lines and beach cruisers loaded with inner tubes rightfully designate Surfwood a water-lover’s paradise. Barbecue on the neighboring shores of Lake Cleone, or walk west to oceanfront Laguna Point Trail for a 0.6-mile boardwalk loop with vistas sweeping from Fort Bragg to the Lost Coast. Five interpretive viewing platforms and a shallow cove with tide pool access lead to the seal watching station, a promontory overlooking herds of sunning harbor seals.

Top off the day with an evening bike ride along the Haul Road—a 3-mile (one-way) multi-use path from Ward Ave. in Cleone to Pudding Creek Trestle in Fort Bragg. Pick up the trail at the edge of Surfwood for a slightly shorter traverse south through sensitive dune habitat and bluffs.

BONUS DELICIOUS FISH & CHIPS: Drive to the eclectic and lively Noyo Harbor from Main Street Fort Bragg for a fish & chips bonanza at Sea Pal Cove, located right on the dock. Order your fresh fish & chips along with some beer, wine, or hard seltzers, and kick back on the rustic deck as fishing boats pass by. Dog-friendly! 

BONUS EVENTS: MacKerricher State Park is hosting Campfire Story Time (June 16; s'mores included!).

MacKerricher State Park is 3 miles north of Fort Bragg on Hwy. 1. It has four campgrounds and over 140 campsites. Reserve. There are wheelchair accessible campsites. Free day use! Dogs allowed on leash in restricted areas. Consult park brochure for details and trail maps.