Chekaka Recreation Area Lake Mendocino
Open — The campground has been permanently closed. The area is open for day-use only, typically 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the off-season and 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in summer. Overnight parking is not permitted.
Hydrologic Outlook issued December 29 at 9:26PM PST by NWS Eureka CA
ESFEKA A series of atmospheric rivers will bring an increased risk for urban and small stream flooding late this week and into this weekend. The first round of rain will arrive Wednesday night into Thursday and provide generally light to moderate rainfall amounts. Locally heavy rain is expected in the King Range. This initial period of rain will set the stage for a more intense rainstorm expected to arrive Friday into Friday night. Current indications are for the heaviest rainfall to occur during the day on Friday into Friday night. The greatest risk for small stream flooding will occur during this time period and probably continue into Saturday after heavy rain has ended due to the lag in rainfall run-off. Road closures will be possible. At this point, the area of greatest concern is in southern Humboldt and northwest Mendocino counties. Small rivers, streams and creeks such as Elk river, Jacoby creek and Mattole river could exceed their banks and flood area roads. Southern Mendocino and Lake counties may also experience heavy rain and road flooding will be possible. Mainstem rivers will also likely rise sharply and will need to be monitored for possible flood stage exceedance. Be on the lookout for watches, advisories and warning as this next heavy rain event unfolds. Stay alert and remember to never attempt to drive through water covered roads. Water may be moving much faster than you think.
About
Chekaka Recreation Area sits on the shores of Lake Mendocino in California's scenic Coyote Valley, where the Mendocino Range's redwood forests transition into wine country. The area is formed by the Coyote Dam on the Russian River, creating a 1,822-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills forested with oak, manzanita, and pine groves. The Chekaka Campground has been permanently closed and the former campground area now serves as overflow day-use parking for the South Boat Ramp and Coyote Valley Dam. The Overlook Day-Use Area remains open and features a reservable group picnic site. Several miles of trails wind through the area, including the popular 3-mile Shakota Trail that begins at the Overlook Day-Use Area and offers beautiful views across the lake. The recreation area provides access to excellent water-based activities on Lake Mendocino, including boating, swimming, and water skiing. Anglers can fish for sunfish, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, white and channel catfish, bluegill, and perch. Two disc golf courses are available, with challenging terrain that includes heavily wooded sections and technical tunnel shots. The charming city of Ukiah is less than 15 minutes away, offering dining, shopping, museums, and a Saturday farmer's market during summer months.
Directions
From Ukiah: Take Highway 101 North, exit at Lake Mendocino Drive (approximately 2 miles north of Ukiah), turn right, then left on North State Street, and right again onto Lake Mendocino Drive. Chekaka Recreation Area is at the top of the hill. Take a slight left before reaching the Coyote Valley Dam to visit the Overlook Day-Use Area.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | — |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | — |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | — |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (707) 467-4200 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Availability
Photos
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