Mad River County Park

Near Mad River County Park, there are several excellent dining options in Arcata. SALT is a stylish seafood restaurant known for its sustainable seafood and craft cocktails. For a more casual experience, Humboldt Brews LLC offers a relaxed atmosphere with a selection of local beers and pub fare. Toni's 24 Hour Restaurant is a popular spot for comfort food and late-night dining. Additionally, Renata's Crêperie provides a cozy setting for sweet and savory crepes.

These restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have plenty of options to enjoy during their stay.

For accommodations near Mad River County Park, Arcata offers a range of hotels. The Front Porch Inn is a boutique hotel with a spa, providing a luxurious stay. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Arcata/Eureka-Airport Area offers standard amenities like a pool and free breakfast. The Best Western Arcata Inn provides cozy rooms with free WiFi and breakfast. For a historic experience, Hotel Arcata offers simple yet charming quarters.

These hotels cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring that visitors can find a comfortable place to stay.

Mad River County Park offers several amenities to enhance visitor experience. The park includes restrooms, picnic tables, and BBQs, making it ideal for family outings and picnics. Additionally, there is a boat launch area on the Mad River, which is suitable for kayakers and canoeists. The park also features a horse staging area for equestrian activities.

While the beach itself does not have showers, the nearby facilities provide basic comforts for a day out. The park's natural attractions, including the dunes and river, offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.

Mad River County Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include beach walking, beachcombing, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The park's coastal dunes are perfect for hiking and exploring, especially on windy days. Birdwatching is another favorite pastime, with the park offering views of shorebirds and other species. The Hammond Coastal Trail, which starts nearby, is great for bicyclists and runners looking to enjoy scenic views of the coast.

The Mad River itself provides opportunities for boating and paddling, even at low tide. Overall, the park offers a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests and ages.

Mad River County Park offers some accessibility features, though they are limited. The park provides restrooms and basic amenities that are accessible. However, detailed information on specific disability access features such as ramps or wheelchair rentals is not readily available. Visitors with specific needs may want to contact the park directly for more information.

Generally, the park's natural terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues, but the main areas are accessible via paved paths.

Parking at Mad River County Park is free, with two main parking areas: one near the beach and another by the boat ramp. However, parking spaces can be limited, especially during peak season, so it's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. The parking lots are conveniently located near the main attractions, allowing easy access to both the beach and the river.

Street parking is also available nearby for those who prefer it or find the main lots full.

Mad River County Park is situated near the mouth of the Mad River, which is the second-longest river in Humboldt County. The park's unique location creates a diverse habitat for wildlife, including roosting Barn Owls and various bird species. The Mad River itself has a strong tidal influence, making it suitable for kayaking and canoeing even at low tide.

The park's coastal dunes provide a sheltered spot for exploration and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mad River County Park is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. Nearby, the Lanphere Dunes and Ma-le’l Dunes offer additional opportunities for hiking and exploring unique coastal ecosystems. The Hammond Coastal Trail provides a scenic route for bikers and runners. For those interested in local culture, the McKinleyville Totem Pole is a notable landmark.

The park's proximity to Arcata also means visitors can easily explore the town's shops, restaurants, and cultural events.