This grove of ironwood trees edging sheer 40ft cliffs above a restless ocean is a moody, windswept location. During the day the quiet, secluded park makes an unforgettable picnic spot, and exploring the lava tube just back from the precipitous ledge a moment’s walk from the pavilion makes a memorable post-lunch adventure.
Head into the forest facing the ledge to find the entrance (this requires a short, steep descent and a little boulder scrambling); after about 20 minutes walking on uneven lava rock you’ll emerge a little way down and across the road from the park entrance.
Camping at MacKenzie is allowed, but not recommended due to the area’s unsettling isolation. It was the site of violent crimes in the past – a long time ago, but the place retains an eerie vibe.
