Bushay Recreation Area

About

Bushay Recreation Area is situated on Lake Mendocino in California's Mendocino Range, where redwood forests meet wine country. The 1,822-acre lake, formed by Coyote Dam on the Russian River, offers abundant boating, swimming, and water skiing opportunities. Anglers can pursue sunfish, smallmouth and striped bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, and perch. The campground features over 100 family sites spread across the BUSHAY loop, many positioned on elevated ground overlooking the lake. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and lantern pole. Shared facilities include flush and vault toilets, hot showers, drinking water, a dump station, and a playground. Sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 62 feet depending on the specific pad. Several miles of trails wind around Lake Mendocino, including the scenic 7-mile Kaweyo Trail open to hiking and horseback riding, providing excellent views of the lake and local wildlife. The charming city of Ukiah, less than 15 minutes away, offers shopping, dining, museums, and a farmers market throughout the summer.

Directions

From the South (San Francisco/Ukiah): Take Highway 101 North to approximately 5 miles north of Ukiah, then Highway 20 East for about 3 miles. After crossing the tall bridge past Lake Mendocino on your right, take the first left, follow the road under the bridge and along the river to the Host Booth. From the North (Willits): Take Highway 101 South approximately 15 miles south of Willits to Highway 20 East. From the East (Sacramento): From Williams, take Highway 20 West for approximately 80 miles past Clearlake and Blue Lakes; after the Potter Valley turnoff, look for the Lake Mendocino Recreation Area sign and take the first right.