Overview

Chekaka Recreation Area is situated on Lake Mendocino in California's Mendocino Range, where redwood forests meet wine country.

The lake is formed by the Coyote Dam on the Russian River. A wide variety of recreational opportunities is available, including boating, swimming, water skiing, fishing, hiking and horseback riding.

Natural Features:

Lake Mendocino lies in the scenic rolling hills of Coyote Valley. Groves of oak mixed with manzanita and pines forest the area, offering limited shade and an excellent bird and wildlife habitat.

Recreation:

The 1,822-acre lake provides abundant boating, swimming and water skiing opportunities. Anglers will find sunfish, smallmouth bass, striped bass, crappie, white and channel catfish, bluegill and perch.

Several miles of trails wind around Lake Mendocino, including a 3-mile trail that begins at the lake overlook and loops around to the north end of the lake, where a designated swim beach is located.

The Lake Mendocino Disc Golf Course offers 18 holes between its north and south courses. The rolling terrain is heavily wooded in some areas, making for challenging tunnel shots with obstacles around most pins.

Facilities:

The campground offers 17 reservable family sites, all within walking distance of the lake and dam. A group overnight site and group day-use picnic area are also available. Several family picnic shelters can be used on a first come, first served basis. Tables and grills are provided.

Amenities include vault toilets and drinking water. Younger campers love the park's large playground, and a horse staging area is located just outside the campground near the Kaweyo Trailhead.

Nearby Attractions:

The charming city of Ukiah, less than 15 minutes away, offers a variety of shopping and dining opportunities, museums and golf courses. The Ukiah Farmer's Market runs Saturday mornings and Tuesday evenings throughout the summer, offering fresh produce, local wines, arts and crafts and live music.