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Local Guide
Lake Mendocino
Set in between the rolling hills and oak groves of Mendocino County, Lake Mendocino is a pristine, sparkling jewel found near the headwaters of the magnificent Russian River. Located near the giant redwoods and close to the ocean, Lake Mendocino is just a short drive from Ukiah.
HISTORY
Created in 1958 as a result of the construction of Coyote Dam on the East Fork of the Russian River, Lake Mendocino has a surface area of nearly 1,900 acres. The earthen dam, built and maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is 160 feet high and 3,500 feet long.
Under the surface of the lake likes the old Coyote Valley. With the construction of the dam, the valley was transformed into the vibrant lake you see today. The lake and dam provide flood control, water conservation, hydroelectric power and recreation.
RECREATION
Lake Mendocino offers 300+ campsites with boat ramps at the north and south ends of the lake. A hub for recreation activities in the Ukiah area, the lake also offers a protected swimming beach, hiking and interpretive trails, 100 family picnic sites, and a small number of boat-in only sites.
On any given summer afternoon, you will see visitors on the lake enjoying water skiing and fishing. You’ll also find hikers enjoying the many and varied trails with their dogs (dogs are allowed on leashes).
If you are looking for a unique place to bring your horses, Lake Mendocino has a spectacular equestrian staging area (call the park office and request an application for a special use permit).
VISITOR CENTER
Modeled after a Pomo round house, the visitor center is operated jointly by the Corps of Engineers and the Coyote Valley Band of Pomo Indians. Displays include information on Coyote Valley, wildlife, Pomo Indians and the Corps of Engineers. Special programs can be scheduled by calling the park office.
HOW TO GET THERE
Location: To the south end of the lake, two miles northeast of Ukiah, California, off U.S. Highway 101. The northern area is accessed off of Highway 20 east, five miles north of Ukiah.
Address: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Mendocino 1160 Lake Mendocino Drive Ukiah, CA 95482-9404
Telephone: (707) 462-7581 or fax (707) 462-3372
Directions:
To the south boat ramp, Che-Ka-Ka Campground, Kaweyo Staging Area and the Park Office: From Ukiah, travel 2 miles north on U.S. Highway 101, take the Lake Mendocino Drive exit and follow signs to the park.
To the north boat ramp, Ky-en Campground, and Bu-shay Campground: From Ukiah, travel 5 miles north on U.S. 101, take Highway 20 east. Marina Drive exit will take you to the north ramp, and Ky-en Campground. For Bu-shay Campground, continue past Marina Drive and turn left after the bridge. Continue along the inlet river for 1 mile, the campground is located at the top of the hill.
Operating Hours:
Office hours are Monday - Friday. The park office is open all year except on Federal Holidays. Camping is available April - September including holidays. Call park office for winter camping.
WHEN YOU VISIT
Please help make everyone's visit enjoyable by:
- Keeping your pets leashed at all times.
- Keeping fires confined to grills and pits and using only dead and down wood.
- Maintaining quiet between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Operating vehicles only on designated roads and parking areas provided.
- Camping only in designated campsites.
- Helping clean up litter and keeping a neat campsite.
- Reporting safety hazards, vandalism and disturbances to park personnel.
- Watching children closely when around water.
- Observing the posted park rules.
All areas are patrolled by Corps of Engineers rangers and deputies of the Mendocino County Sheriff's Department. If you need help, contact a park ranger, deputy sheriff or dial 9-1-1.
Check Lake Mendocino’s official website for more information: spn.usace.army.mil/mendocino
Back to the Local Guide to Parks & Recreation