Skip to main content
Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

North Cow Mountain Recreation Area

Talmage, California · Lake County

The North Cow Mountain Recreation Area is located within the Mayacamas Mountains, east of the city of Ukiah and west of the city of Lakeport, in Northwestern California. The recreation management area consists of approximately 26,000 acres of public land that is managed for non-motorized use. The recreation area boosts…

Advertisement
39.15173, -123.07480
Open in OpenStreetMap

About North Cow Mountain Recreation Area

The North Cow Mountain Recreation Area is located within the Mayacamas Mountains, east of the city of Ukiah and west of the city of Lakeport, in Northwestern California. The recreation management area consists of approximately 26,000 acres of public land that is managed for non-motorized use. The recreation area boosts almost 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.No off-highway vehicle (OHV) use is permitted on North Cow Mountain.Emergency Information:In case of an emergency call 9-1-1Mendocino County Sheriff (707) 463-4411Lake County Sheriff (707) 272-4200 CAMPGROUNDSMayacamas Campground Vault toiletTrash receptaclesSix sites with picnic tables and barbequesGoat Rock Campground Two sites with picnic tables and barbequesCan only access campground by hiking or on horseback CAMPINGCamping is allowed throughout the recreation area, however all vehicles must remain on designated routes and trails. The campgrounds afford level parking, barbeques, fire pits and picnic tables. Camping near springs or guzzlers isn't permitted to protect the water source and to allow access to wildlife. To insure you do not displace wildlife, camp at least 300 yards from any water source.No potable water is available within the recreation area. CAMPFIRESCampfires are allowed within North Cow Mountain provided you have a current campfire permit. Seasonal fire restrictions may prohibit campfires during periods of high fire danger. To check on fire restrictions or to obtain a campfire permit, call BLM Ukiah Field Office at (707) 468-4000. PRIVATE LANDSSome sections of the trail pass through private lands. Please obey signs and stay on the trails. Please respect the rights of private land owners and signs posted in these areas. HUNTINGHunting is a popular sport throughout North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. Please share the area and watch for other recreation users when hunting in the area.Target shooting is only permitted at the Shooting Range on North Cow Mountain Recreation Area.

How to Get There

In Ukiah, take State Highway 101 south to the Talmage exit. Go east on Talmage Road about 1.5 miles. Turn right at East Side Road. Travel less than 0.5 mile to Mill Creek Road, which is on the left. Continue on Mill Creek Road 3 miles to turnoff for the North Cow Mountain Area.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to North Cow Mountain Recreation Area

Heading to North Cow Mountain Recreation Area? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for North Cow Mountain Recreation Area?

No central reservation system listed for North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/10004719) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to North Cow Mountain Recreation Area?

In Ukiah, take State Highway 101 south to the Talmage exit. Go east on Talmage Road about 1.5 miles. Turn right at East Side Road. Travel less than 0.5 mile to Mill Creek Road, which is on the left. Continue on Mill Creek Road 3 miles to turnoff for the North Cow Mountain Area.

How do I contact North Cow Mountain Recreation Area?

You can reach the park at phone: 707-468-4000 or email: BLM_CA_Web_UK@blm.gov.