Things To Do Near MacKerricher State Park
Some of our Favorite Activities in and Near MacKerricher State Park.
The Haul Road and MacKerricher Coastal Trail
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The Haul Road in Fort Bragg is a wide, paved coastal path that follows the shoreline and is popular for walking, running, and biking. It offers continuous ocean views and easy access to beaches and headlands. It connects with the MacKerricher State Park Coastal Trail, which extends the experience into protected dunes, wetlands, and tide pools. Together, they create one of the best low-effort ways to explore the Mendocino coast’s wildlife, scenery, and open landscapes.
https://www.mendocinolandtrust.org/trails/mackerricher-coastal-trail/
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Glass Beach
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One of the top attractions is Glass Beach, famous for its colorful sea glass formed from decades of discarded bottles polished by the ocean. It’s perfect for a scenic walk, photography, or simply enjoying the rugged coastline. While collecting glass is no longer allowed, walking along the shore and seeing the shimmering mix of blues, greens, and ambers is unforgettable.
https://visitfortbraggca.com/glass-beach/
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Skunk Train
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Ride the historic Skunk Train, a heritage railway that winds through towering redwood forests. This relaxing journey gives you access to landscapes that are otherwise hard to reach. This historic railway dates back to the logging era and now offers a leisurely journey through dense redwood forests, crossing scenic bridges and following the Noyo River. Some rides even allow passengers to stop and explore the forest, making it more than just a train ride—it’s an immersive nature experience.
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​Point Cabrillo Light Station
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Another highlight is the Point Cabrillo Light Station. This beautifully restored lighthouse sits on a dramatic headland and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can tour the lightkeeper’s house, learn about maritime navigation, and, during certain seasons, even spot migrating gray whales offshore.
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Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens
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Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens is a unique natural treasure located on the bluffs of Northern California. Since the 1960s, the Gardens has cultivated a wide array of plants that are both sustainable and beautiful. As a nonprofit botanical garden, their mission is to engage and enrich lives by displaying and conserving plants in harmony with our Northern California coastal ecosystems and to preserve public access to the coast.
https://www.gardenbythesea.org/
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Russian Gulch State Park
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Russian Gulch State Park is a scenic coastal park near the Mendocino coast, known for its dramatic cliffs, fern-filled canyons, and a striking 36-foot waterfall that flows through a narrow gorge. Visitors can hike trails that range from easy coastal walks to more challenging inland routes, offering views of sea caves, blowholes, and rugged shoreline. The park also has a small beach, picnic areas, and excellent opportunities for tidepool exploration and wildlife viewing.
https://www.mendocinolandtrust.org/trails/russian-gulch-state-park/
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Mendocino Village
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Mendocino is a picturesque coastal village about 10 miles south of fort Bragg known for its historic charm, dramatic ocean bluffs, and strong artistic community. Set on a headland overlooking the Pacific, it features well-preserved 19th-century architecture, cozy inns, galleries, and boutique shops. Visitors come for cliffside walks, nearby state parks, and whale watching in season. The village has long attracted artists and writers, giving it a relaxed, creative atmosphere that contrasts with its wild and rugged natural surroundings.
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Learn more about MacKerricher State Park
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From our Guests...
This was my first time camping ever and it was smooth and easy traveling with your company. I loved it!!!!”
-Suzanne Johnson
“I thought the quality of the meals was amazing considering they were being cooked outdoors. Surpassed my expectations.”
-Louise Peregrina
“This was an amazing and unforgettable trip. I enjoyed every minute of it! Thanks and keep up the good work!”
-Antoine Linssen
