The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Lake Sonoma is continuing the expanded no wake zones established in 2021 to keep boaters safe during historic low water levels this recreation season. With increasing underwater hazards, boats will not be allowed to travel more than 5 mph or produce a wake in the Warm Springs arm of the lake, beginning at the Rockpile Road Bridge. The Dry Creek arm will also continue expanded no wake zones beginning upstream of Falcons Nest Campground. Normal boating operations will be allowed between Falcons Nest Campground and Rockpile Road Bridge. These zones will remain in effect until the lake level increases to a safer pool elevation.
The Public Boat Launch Facility is the only launch ramp at Lake Sonoma that still has access to water. Yorty Creek and the Lake Sonoma Resort Area launch ramps are currently closed. The Army Corps expects increased wait times at the Public Boat Launch Facility, as well as increased boat traffic in the Dry Creek arm.
Boat-in campgrounds that are currently open include Broken Bridge, Black Mountain, Buck Pasture, Falcon’s Nest, Homestead, Island View, Loggers, Lone Pine and Madrone Point. The boat-in campgrounds are difficult to access this year, requiring extended hikes across steep terrain to access the campsites. It is recommended that users visit campsites prior to making a reservation to ensure access is practical for the vessel and visitors planning to use any campgrounds.
Boaters are urged to use caution while boating at Lake Sonoma with conditions changing daily as the water level recedes throughout the dry season. For more information, please call the Lake Sonoma Visitor Center at 707-431-4533.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owns and operates Lake Sonoma in Geyserville, Calif., and is one the nation’s leading federal providers of outdoor and water-based recreation.