Camping at West Pinewood Campground

West Pinewood Campground in MacKerricher State Park

Location and Access: West Pinewood Campground is located within MacKerricher State Park, which runs along the Mendocino coast in Northern California. It's accessible via Highway 1, near the town of Fort Bragg. Visitors will typically need to follow park directions to reach West Pinewood as its specific location could be signposted within the park.

Campground Overview: West Pinewood Campground offers a number of campsites nestled among pine trees, providing a more enclosed and forested setting compared to some other campgrounds in the park which may be more open or closer to the beach. These sites are suitable for tent camping, and depending on the specific site, may also accommodate RVs or trailers albeit with potential size restrictions.

Facilities:

• Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite
• Potable water access throughout the campground
• Restrooms with flush toilets and sinks
• Coin-operated hot showers available
• A nearby dump station for RVs

Reservation Information:

• Reservations can typically be made up to six months in advance.
• During peak season, sites may be booked quickly, so advance planning is highly recommended.
• There may be first-come-first-serve sites, but this can vary by season or park management decisions.

Activities:

• Hiking trails accessible from the campground with varying levels of difficulty
• Wildlife viewing opportunities including bird watching and possibly whale watching from the park’s coastline
• Access to the beach and tide pools
• Fishing may be available, requiring proper licensing
• Biking on designated paths or park roads

Seasonal Considerations:

• Weather can be variable, with cooler temperatures and fog common along the coast, especially outside of summer months.
• Check state park advisories for seasonal closures or restrictions, which may affect campground access or amenity availability.

Fire Safety and Regulations:

• Campfires are typically allowed in provided fire rings, but always check current fire restrictions due to seasonal fire danger or park-specific regulations.
• Gathering firewood within the park is usually prohibited; wood should be purchased from the campground host or nearby.

Environment Protection Guidelines:

• Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize impacts on the natural environment.
• Dispose of waste properly in designated receptacles and recycling bins, if available.
• Keep wildlife wild by storing food in secure containers and not feeding animals.

Pets:

• Dogs are often permitted in the campground but must be kept on leash and are not allowed on certain trails or beach areas.
• Be sure to review specific pet policies prior to your visit.

Accessibility:

• Check for ADA-accessible sites when making your reservation if accessibility is a concern.
• Accessible restrooms and showers should be available, but confirm with the park for the most up-to-date information.

For the most current information, visit the official California State Parks website or contact the MacKerricher State Park directly to inquire about conditions, make reservations, and plan your trip to West Pinewood Campground.