Join CA State Parks for 45 minutes of fun around the fire at the Van Damme Campfire Center! Bring your own s’mores, snacks, or drinks to enjoy during the program. Topics vary week to week.

Getting There:
Campers are encouraged to walk to the campfire center.
- Upper Campground: Take the short but steep trail beginning near Site 39.
- Lower Campground: Follow the road to the campfire center. Watch out for traffic.

Parking:
Parking is extremely limited. The campfire center has only one accessible parking space. Day-use visitors are encouraged to arrive early, park in day-use lots, and walk along the road to the program. Please park only in designated parking spaces.

Know Before You Go:
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.
- Bring insect repellent and a flashlight for your walk back to your campsite.

Cancellation Policy:
Campfire programs may be cancelled due to park closures, rain, or other emergencies.

More Information:
Visit www.mendoparks.org to learn more about upcoming programs or to make a donation. For questions or accessibility information, email Mackenzi.Lamb@parks.ca.gov.

Join CA State Parks for 45 minutes of fun around the fire at the Van Damme Campfire Center! Bring your own s’mores, snacks, or drinks to enjoy during the program. Topics vary week to week.

Getting There: Campers are encouraged to walk to the campfire center.

• Upper Campground: Take the short but steep trail beginning near Site 39.

• Lower Campground: Follow the road to the campfire center. Watch out for traffic.

Parking: Parking is extremely limited. The campfire center has only one accessible parking space. Day-use visitors are encouraged to arrive early, park in day-use lots, and walk along the road to the program. Please park only in designated parking spaces.

Know Before You Go:

• Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.

• Bring insect repellent and a flashlight for your walk back to your campsite.

Cancellation Policy: Campfire programs may be cancelled due to park closures, rain, or other emergencies.

More Information: Visit www.mendoparks.org to learn more about upcoming programs or to make a donation. For questions or accessibility information, email Mackenzi.Lamb@parks.ca.gov.

All Dates for this Event

 7/17/2026

 7/24/2026

Roll Out the Mat and Bring Your Binoculars!

Date/Time: July 18th | 10am to 1pm

Location: Big River State Beach (just south of Mendocino Village at Mendocino Headlands State Park)

Check out (and test out!) Mendocino Land Trust and MendoParks’ recently acquired accessibility equipment. We will have 500ft of beach access mats as well as beach accessibility equipment including beach wheelchairs, a beach walker, and electric FreedomTrax wheelchair assist units. Enjoy the beach, river, and ocean. Learn about birds, nature and more! Light snacks and beverages provided…

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire to learn about the wonderfully weird creatures that call MacKerricher State Park home! From neon nudibranchs to slimy slugs, amazing anemone to adventurous amphibians- campers are guaranteed to sing and laugh along with this fun, family friendly program. Stick around after the program for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

When: Mondays, 2 - 3 PM

Location:  Davis Wetlands Trailhead in the Manchester State Park Campground

Description: Join us for a short half mile walk & meet our local feathered friends. Binoculars are provided for use during the program. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms are located at the trailhead.

Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible and except for service animals, dogs are not allowed (leashed dogs are only allowed in the campground and paved roads at Manchester State Park).

All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels. Programs run 6/15/26 - 8/16/26

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

When: Tuesdays, 2 - 3:30 PM

Location: Meet at the Ford House, Mendocino 

Description: Join Park Interpreter, Anica Williams, for an interactive hike through the Mendocino Headlands State Park’s history and become acquainted with some of its characters! It’s about a mile loop, mostly flat. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms located just East of the Ford House. Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible.  

All programs are free and open to the public. Donations to MendoParks are appreciated. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

• Glass Beach Information Table

  • 10 AM - 12 PM

  • Stop by this "information station" to learn the fascinating history of Glass Beach! Learn where the glass came from, how the glass got here, and what we can do to protect this unique area of MacKerricher State Park. 

  • Location: Follow the gravel trail leading west from Glass Beach Parking area. The table is located next to the wooden whale!

o        GPS coordinates: 39°27'09.6"N 123°48'47.2"W

• Join Interpreter Kat to spot harbor seals with binoculars (provided). Learn about MacKerricher State Park's resident population of harbor seals, how they survive harsh ocean conditions, and what makes these animals worth every "aww" moment! 

• Location: Follow the Laguna Point boardwalk to the farthest overlook platform

• GPS coordinates: 39°29'22.9"N 123°48'16.6"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire for the lively, children's story of Why? Written by Interpreter Kat!

This interactive story about curiosity and belonging introduces young nature lovers to the creatures of MacKerricher State Park and the reasons why each one is important. Stick around after the story for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Join CA State Parks for 45 minutes of fun around the fire at the Van Damme Campfire Center! Bring your own s’mores, snacks, or drinks to enjoy during the program. Topics vary week to week.

Getting There:
Campers are encouraged to walk to the campfire center.
- Upper Campground: Take the short but steep trail beginning near Site 39.
- Lower Campground: Follow the road to the campfire center. Watch out for traffic.

Parking:
Parking is extremely limited. The campfire center has only one accessible parking space. Day-use visitors are encouraged to arrive early, park in day-use lots, and walk along the road to the program. Please park only in designated parking spaces.

Know Before You Go:
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.
- Bring insect repellent and a flashlight for your walk back to your campsite.

Cancellation Policy:
Campfire programs may be cancelled due to park closures, rain, or other emergencies.

More Information:
Visit www.mendoparks.org to learn more about upcoming programs or to make a donation. For questions or accessibility information, email Mackenzi.Lamb@parks.ca.gov.

Jug Handle Nature Run: Running Through Time…

Saturday, July 25, 2026 | 8:00 am - 10:00 am

Free Event (donations appreciated!)

Location: Meet at Jug Handle State Reserve Parking Lot (off HWY 1, north of Caspar)

Join this fun group run on the Ecological Staircase Trail at Jug Handle, where every step is a step back in time. Begin with trail running tips from Sid Garza-Hillman, certified UESCA Running Coach and MendoParks Executive Director then embark upon a 5-mile run up the Ecological Staircase. Travel through four unique ecosystems across three ancient marine terraces. At stops along the way, CA State Parks Interpreter Kenzi Lamb will share stories hidden in the plants and geology of this landscape, revealing how it has changed over hundreds of thousands of years and how it continues to change today. Water (bring your own bottle), fruit, granola bars provided courtesy of MendoParks!

Running experience required (trail features roots, hills, uneven terrain). Parking is limited. One portapotty in the parking lot. This program will be canceled for severe weather, park closures, or other emergencies. 

RSVP REQUIRED (limited spots): email director@mendoparks.org

Questions or Accessibility Information: Mackenzi.Lamb@parks.ca.gov

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire to learn about the wonderfully weird creatures that call MacKerricher State Park home! From neon nudibranchs to slimy slugs, amazing anemone to adventurous amphibians- campers are guaranteed to sing and laugh along with this fun, family friendly program. Stick around after the program for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Greenwood State Beach Tabling
When: Sundays, 1:30 – 2:30 PM (This program runs Sunday 7/5/26 through 8/16/26 – No tabling Sunday, July 19th)
Location: Greenwood State Beach, Day Use Area, across from the Elk Store 

Join CA State Park Interpreter and Elk local, Anica Williams, for a game of coastal bingo and discover the natural and human history of this area. All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

When: Mondays, 2 - 3 PM

Location:  Davis Wetlands Trailhead in the Manchester State Park Campground

Description: Join us for a short half mile walk & meet our local feathered friends. Binoculars are provided for use during the program. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms are located at the trailhead.

Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible and except for service animals, dogs are not allowed (leashed dogs are only allowed in the campground and paved roads at Manchester State Park).

All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels. Programs run 6/15/26 - 8/16/26

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

When: Tuesdays, 2 - 3:30 PM

Location: Meet at the Ford House, Mendocino 

Description: Join Park Interpreter, Anica Williams, for an interactive hike through the Mendocino Headlands State Park’s history and become acquainted with some of its characters! It’s about a mile loop, mostly flat. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms located just East of the Ford House. Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible.  

All programs are free and open to the public. Donations to MendoParks are appreciated. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

Event Date: Tuesday, July 28th

Event Time: 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Location:

Meet at Ford House

45035 Main St, Mendocino Village

Join State Parks at this fun trail maintenance event, and care for the coastal parks we all share. Help keep our trails beautiful by becoming a Mendocino Coast Trail Volunteer! State Parks Will provide tools, and refreshments provided courtesy of MendoParks!

More Info: Amelia.Schall@parks.ca.gov

• Glass Beach Information Table

  • 10 AM - 12 PM

  • Stop by this "information station" to learn the fascinating history of Glass Beach! Learn where the glass came from, how the glass got here, and what we can do to protect this unique area of MacKerricher State Park. 

  • Location: Follow the gravel trail leading west from Glass Beach Parking area. The table is located next to the wooden whale!

o        GPS coordinates: 39°27'09.6"N 123°48'47.2"W

• Join Interpreter Kat to spot harbor seals with binoculars (provided). Learn about MacKerricher State Park's resident population of harbor seals, how they survive harsh ocean conditions, and what makes these animals worth every "aww" moment! 

• Location: Follow the Laguna Point boardwalk to the farthest overlook platform

• GPS coordinates: 39°29'22.9"N 123°48'16.6"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire for the lively, children's story of Why? Written by Interpreter Kat!

This interactive story about curiosity and belonging introduces young nature lovers to the creatures of MacKerricher State Park and the reasons why each one is important. Stick around after the story for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Join CA State Parks for 45 minutes of fun around the fire at the Van Damme Campfire Center! Bring your own s’mores, snacks, or drinks to enjoy during the program. Topics vary week to week.

Getting There:
Campers are encouraged to walk to the campfire center.
- Upper Campground: Take the short but steep trail beginning near Site 39.
- Lower Campground: Follow the road to the campfire center. Watch out for traffic.

Parking:
Parking is extremely limited. The campfire center has only one accessible parking space. Day-use visitors are encouraged to arrive early, park in day-use lots, and walk along the road to the program. Please park only in designated parking spaces.

Know Before You Go:
- Well-behaved dogs are welcome but must remain on a 6-foot leash at all times.
- Bring insect repellent and a flashlight for your walk back to your campsite.

Cancellation Policy:
Campfire programs may be cancelled due to park closures, rain, or other emergencies.

More Information:
Visit www.mendoparks.org to learn more about upcoming programs or to make a donation. For questions or accessibility information, email Mackenzi.Lamb@parks.ca.gov.

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire to learn about the wonderfully weird creatures that call MacKerricher State Park home! From neon nudibranchs to slimy slugs, amazing anemone to adventurous amphibians- campers are guaranteed to sing and laugh along with this fun, family friendly program. Stick around after the program for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Greenwood State Beach Tabling
When: Sundays, 1:30 – 2:30 PM (This program runs Sunday 7/5/26 through 8/16/26 – No tabling Sunday, July 19th)
Location: Greenwood State Beach, Day Use Area, across from the Elk Store 

Join CA State Park Interpreter and Elk local, Anica Williams, for a game of coastal bingo and discover the natural and human history of this area. All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

When: Mondays, 2 - 3 PM

Location:  Davis Wetlands Trailhead in the Manchester State Park Campground

Description: Join us for a short half mile walk & meet our local feathered friends. Binoculars are provided for use during the program. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms are located at the trailhead.

Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible and except for service animals, dogs are not allowed (leashed dogs are only allowed in the campground and paved roads at Manchester State Park).

All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels. Programs run 6/15/26 - 8/16/26

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

When: Tuesdays, 2 - 3:30 PM

Location: Meet at the Ford House, Mendocino 

Description: Join Park Interpreter, Anica Williams, for an interactive hike through the Mendocino Headlands State Park’s history and become acquainted with some of its characters! It’s about a mile loop, mostly flat. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms located just East of the Ford House. Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible.  

All programs are free and open to the public. Donations to MendoParks are appreciated. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

• Glass Beach Information Table

  • 10 AM - 12 PM

  • Stop by this "information station" to learn the fascinating history of Glass Beach! Learn where the glass came from, how the glass got here, and what we can do to protect this unique area of MacKerricher State Park. 

  • Location: Follow the gravel trail leading west from Glass Beach Parking area. The table is located next to the wooden whale!

o        GPS coordinates: 39°27'09.6"N 123°48'47.2"W

• Join Interpreter Kat to spot harbor seals with binoculars (provided). Learn about MacKerricher State Park's resident population of harbor seals, how they survive harsh ocean conditions, and what makes these animals worth every "aww" moment! 

• Location: Follow the Laguna Point boardwalk to the farthest overlook platform

• GPS coordinates: 39°29'22.9"N 123°48'16.6"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire for the lively, children's story of Why? Written by Interpreter Kat!

This interactive story about curiosity and belonging introduces young nature lovers to the creatures of MacKerricher State Park and the reasons why each one is important. Stick around after the story for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire to learn about the wonderfully weird creatures that call MacKerricher State Park home! From neon nudibranchs to slimy slugs, amazing anemone to adventurous amphibians- campers are guaranteed to sing and laugh along with this fun, family friendly program. Stick around after the program for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Greenwood State Beach Tabling
When: Sundays, 1:30 – 2:30 PM (This program runs Sunday 7/5/26 through 8/16/26 – No tabling Sunday, July 19th)
Location: Greenwood State Beach, Day Use Area, across from the Elk Store 

Join CA State Park Interpreter and Elk local, Anica Williams, for a game of coastal bingo and discover the natural and human history of this area. All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

When: Mondays, 2 - 3 PM

Location:  Davis Wetlands Trailhead in the Manchester State Park Campground

Description: Join us for a short half mile walk & meet our local feathered friends. Binoculars are provided for use during the program. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms are located at the trailhead.

Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible and except for service animals, dogs are not allowed (leashed dogs are only allowed in the campground and paved roads at Manchester State Park).

All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels. Programs run 6/15/26 - 8/16/26

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

When: Tuesdays, 2 - 3:30 PM

Location: Meet at the Ford House, Mendocino 

Description: Join Park Interpreter, Anica Williams, for an interactive hike through the Mendocino Headlands State Park’s history and become acquainted with some of its characters! It’s about a mile loop, mostly flat. Wear suitable shoes and dress in layers. Restrooms located just East of the Ford House. Note: this trail is not currently ADA accessible.  

All programs are free and open to the public. Donations to MendoParks are appreciated. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

For more info contact: Anica Williams at anica.williams@parks.ca.gov

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire for the lively, children's story of Why? Written by Interpreter Kat!

This interactive story about curiosity and belonging introduces young nature lovers to the creatures of MacKerricher State Park and the reasons why each one is important. Stick around after the story for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

This fun, interactive program offers youth, ages 7-12, the opportunity to become Junior Rangers. Junior Rangers hike trails, play games, observe nature, create art, experience history, and practice science in some of the most special places in California. Best of all, Junior Ranger Programs cost no additional fee.

Location: Laguna Point parking area, upper tables located in the center of the parking loop

GPS coordinates: 39°29'20.2"N 123°47'59.1"W

Gather around the campfire to learn about the wonderfully weird creatures that call MacKerricher State Park home! From neon nudibranchs to slimy slugs, amazing anemone to adventurous amphibians- campers are guaranteed to sing and laugh along with this fun, family friendly program. Stick around after the program for campfire s'mores (provided). 

Location: MacKerricher State Park Campfire Center

GPS coordinates: 39°29'21.0"N 123°47'28.7"W

Greenwood State Beach Tabling
When: Sundays, 1:30 – 2:30 PM (This program runs Sunday 7/5/26 through 8/16/26 – No tabling Sunday, July 19th)
Location: Greenwood State Beach, Day Use Area, across from the Elk Store 

Join CA State Park Interpreter and Elk local, Anica Williams, for a game of coastal bingo and discover the natural and human history of this area. All programs are free and open to the public. All Ages, but minors must be accompanied by an adult. Rain cancels.

Date: Saturday, August 22

Time: 9 am - 12 pm

Join Flockworks and MendoParks for this fun beach cleanup at Hare Creek! Buckets, Pickers, Biodegradable trash bags provided, plus snacks! Flockworks is Hare Creek’s Adopt-A-Beach manager and these cleanups crucial to the health and beauty of our coastline!

More about Adopt-A-Beach
The Adopt-A-Beach Program falls under the California Coastal Commission whose mission is to protect and enhance California’s coast and ocean for present and future generations. The program began in Humboldt County in 1979, and then grew to a state-wide program in the 1990’s. The program, along with the yearly California Coastal Cleanup – one of the largest one-day volunteer event in the world – helps keep our coasts safe, accessible, and beautiful. MendoParks oversees the following four coastal beaches: Van Damme, Big River, Jug Handle, and Hare Creek.