Lake Sonoma lies nestled in the beautiful
coastal foothills of Sonoma County, a forty-five
minute drive north of Santa Rosa. Paddlers will
enjoy exploring the lake’s scenic shoreline and
coves, surrounded by 8,000 acres of oak
woodland. With its outstanding paddling, boat-in
camping and fishing opportunities, Lake Sonoma
is truly a superb getaway.
Lake Sonoma is one of the best boat-in
camping destinations in California. The lake
boosts nearly 100 boat-in campsites
scattered around the lake. Some campsites
lie close to the lake’s ski zones while
others are situated in more secluded regions
perfect for fishing or swimming.
Boaters who wish to sleep on their boats may
anchor anywhere within the park, but boats
must be equipped with anchor lights. If
kayakers wish to tie up to the shore, they
must be at one of the designated
campgrounds.
Lake Sonoma allows many types of boating, so
beware of fast-moving watercraft, especially
during foggy conditions in the middle of the
lake near Warm Springs Dam. On warm days,
the lake is buzzing with motor-driven
watercraft and jet-ski activity.
There are no-ski areas and 10mph speed
zones in the Warm Springs and Dry Creek Arms
and 5mph speed zones in Cherry Creek and
Yorty Creek inlets. The lake’s two main arms
provide an array of scenic inlets to
explore.
There are three launch locations. To reach
the Yorty Creek boat launch, Hot Springs
Road is not recommended for motor homes or
vehicles pulling trailers. The shape of the
lake is not well suited for novice paddlers,
unless they only paddle the very upper or
lower arms of the lake.
Map of Lake Sonoma
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