Small Lake with Swimming Dock

Lake Mendocino Vacation Rentals

Lake Mendocino

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Lake Mendocino
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Why Rent On Lake Mendocino

Lake Mendocino is a large reservoir in Mendocino County, California, northeast of Ukiah. It covers 1,922 acres and was formed by the construction of Coyote Valley Dam in 1958. The lake and dam provide flood control, water conservation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. The dam also includes a fallout shelter built during the Cold War era to protect against the radiation from nuclear attacks from the Soviet Union. Each year the city hosts the “Dam Dog Walk” on New Years Day as a celebration.

Lake Mendocino is administered by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and offers disc golf, boating, water skiing, fishing, camping, and hiking.

There are 300+ campsites plus a small number of boat-in only sites. Three groups of campsites are named in the Pomo language of the local native people.

There are two boat ramps, at the north and south ends of the lake, and use for watersports is permitted. The lake also has numerous day use and picnic areas. Several hiking trails traverse the length of the lake.

Beneath the surface of the lake lies the old Coyote Valley. With the construction of the dam, the Army Corps had to relocate the residents of the valley, along with a short portion of State Route 20 which was subsequently inundated.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Mendocino in late spring, particularly May, when wildflowers bloom and the air is fragrant with fresh earth. Enjoy tranquil mornings on the water with ideal conditions for kayaking and serene picnics, far from summer crowds. The gentle breeze and warm sun create a perfect escape.
Water Quality
Lake Mendocino's water exhibits a cerulean hue, reflecting its clear and transparent nature. The water clarity is ultra-clear, offering a sparkling and see-through appearance.
Surface area (mi)
7.74
Max depth (ft)
134.51
Elevation (ft)
521.65
Shoreline length (mi)
15

Popular activities

  • Fishing
  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Ice Skating
  • Cross-country Skiing
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Marinas on Lake Mendocino

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Mendocino has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are designated areas for swimming at Lake Mendocino. The designated swim beach is located on the northwest shore in the Pomo A and Pomo B Day-Use areas. Swimming in these areas is unsupervised, so it is important to swim within your own limits and follow safety guidelines.

  • Lake Mendocino is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities. You can hike around the lake, enjoy water-based activities at places like Pomo A Day Use Area, and go camping. The area also includes several day use areas like Boater’s Beach and Joe Riley Day Use Area.

  • Yes, there are restricted areas where fishing is not allowed in Lake Mendocino, California. Fishing is prohibited at both boat ramps, the government boat dock at the southern end of the lake, and the designated swim beach in the Pomo A and B Day-Use Areas. These areas are off-limits to ensure safety and other recreational activities.

  • Yes, there is a public beach at Lake Mendocino. The designated swim beach is located on the northwest shore within the Pomo A and Pomo B day-use areas. These areas are accessible and offer additional amenities like playgrounds and volleyball courts.

  • Towns near Lake Mendocino include Ukiah, which is the largest city in Mendocino County and located northeast of the lake. Other nearby towns are Talmage and Hopland, though Ukiah is the most direct and significant urban area in the vicinity of Lake Mendocino.