Lake Sonoma Boat Launch: Open For Business?

Lake Sonoma is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, offering a wealth of recreational activities on its expansive waters. Nestled in the coastal foothills of Sonoma County, California, the lake boasts a vast surface area of 2,700 acres and 50 miles of shoreline when full. With its recent update, the Lake Sonoma Marina now features a newly improved dock with covered slips, making it even more accessible for boats of various sizes. The marina also provides a range of boat rentals, from patio boats to fishing boats and kayaks, catering to different preferences. Additionally, there are multiple boat launch options available, including the Yorty Creek Recreation Area and the Public Boat Ramp near the dam, where trailers are permitted.

Boat launch fees and passes

• A $7 day pass can be purchased on-site using a credit card through the Recreation.gov mobile app. This pass allows access to all recreation areas at Lake Sonoma for the date specified and is valid for one vehicle and one boat trailer.
• The Lake Sonoma Marina offers a boat ramp with a fee of $20 for the launch ramp and $15 for hand launch. This fee includes access to the marina's facilities, such as the fuel dock, store, boat services and repairs, lakeside deli, picnic area, patio rentals, and beach area.
• The Yorty Creek Recreation Area offers a car-top launch only with a small fee.
• The Warm Springs Bridge Ramp is a public launch ramp with 5 lanes and adjacent parking lots. There is a small fee to use this ramp.
• Boat rentals at Lake Sonoma Marina range from $80 for a kayak to more expensive options such as patio boats and fishing boats.
• Slip fees at Lake Sonoma Marina are calculated based on the length of the boat or the length of the slip, whichever is greater.
• Camping spots at Lake Sonoma Recreation Area are $20 per night and offer a variety of boat-in, hike-in, and drive-in campsites.

Boat rental options

Lake Sonoma Marina offers a range of boat rental options for visitors. The marina is located at 4200 Skaggs Springs Road, Geyserville, CA 95441, and is open year-round.

The cost of renting a boat at Lake Sonoma starts at $220, and this price may vary depending on factors such as the duration of the rental, the type of boat, and the marina from which you rent.

For those seeking a leisurely experience, pontoon boat rentals are available for half-day, full-day, or overnight rentals. These boats offer a relaxing float on the lake and can accommodate up to eight people.

If you're looking for more adventure, premium sport boat rentals are also an option. These boats cater to high-octane thrills and can accommodate up to eight people as well.

Fishing enthusiasts can take advantage of fishing boat rentals, which are available for half-day, full-day, or overnight rentals. With a capacity of three people, these boats provide an excellent opportunity to explore the best fishing spots on the lake.

In addition to these options, Lake Sonoma Marina also offers patio boats, ski boats, kayaks, and canoes for rent. They also provide storage options for those who own their boats.

It's important to note that same-day online reservations are not accepted. For same-day reservations, visitors are advised to go directly to the marina. The marina features an updated dock with covered slips, making it convenient for visitors to take their boats out on the lake.

The Lake Sonoma Resort Area also includes a campground, boat launch, marina, and a small convenience store. The marina and convenience store offer a large grassy area with picnic tables, BBQs, and ample space for games.

With its beautiful surroundings, Lake Sonoma provides a unique boating experience, offering a combination of leisure, adventure, and natural exploration.

Swimming areas

Lake Sonoma is a great place to swim, but access to swimming beaches is difficult without a boat. With 50 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of out-of-the-way places to stop and enjoy a swim. However, if you don't have a boat, you may feel like you're missing out.

There are two designated swimming areas at Lake Sonoma Marina. The first is to the left of the launch ramp, with access granted through the Swimming Patio, which can be reserved. The second is at the Overflow Parking Lot; simply walk to the end of the Overflow Lot and down the hill for beach access. These areas are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

If you're looking for a swimming beach, Yorty Creek Recreation Area has a designated swimming beach on the north side of the lake. The sandy beach features a picnic area, playground, fishing trail, and public boat ramp.

For those looking for a more structured swimming experience, Spring Lake Regional Park in Santa Rosa features a three-acre swimming lagoon with lifeguards on duty daily during the summer swimming hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, there is an inflatable water park in the swimming lagoon with floating slides, climbing walls, bridges, and more.

Healdsburg Veterans Memorial Beach is another option, with a large sandy beach, picnic areas, restrooms, and a small golf course. Lifeguards are on duty daily from 10 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.

Camping sites

Lake Sonoma, located in California, is a great place for camping, boating, and swimming. The lake is nestled in the coastal foothills of Sonoma County, California, and is surrounded by steep hills and vineyards. The area has cool, foggy, and wet winters, and hot, dry summers, with temperatures averaging in the upper 90s.

There are several camping options available at Lake Sonoma:

Boat-In Sites

Lake Sonoma offers nearly 100 boat-in campsites scattered around the lake. These sites are considered primitive but include a fire ring, picnic table, and lantern holder. Restroom facilities are available, but there is no potable water on site. These sites are perfect for those who want to get away from it all and enjoy a more secluded camping experience. The price for these sites is $20 per night, and reservations are required.

Lake Sonoma Marina Campground

The Lake Sonoma Marina also offers camping spots. The campground is located on a scenic hill above the lake, with access to miles of hiking trails. Each campsite includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and space for 1-2 vehicles. The price for these sites is $45 per night for one vehicle, with an additional $20 per night for a second vehicle. Overnight wet storage for boats is also available for $90 per night. Use of the marina launch ramp costs $25.

Hike-In and Drive-In Sites

In addition to the boat-in sites, there are also plenty of hike-in and drive-in campsites located on the property. These sites offer easy access from both the boat and the shore.

Lake Sonoma provides a unique and memorable camping experience for individuals, families, and groups. With its beautiful scenery, abundant recreational opportunities, and convenient amenities, it's a great choice for a camping trip.

Lake Sonoma Marina facilities

Lake Sonoma Marina is located in the heart of Sonoma County, California, and is open all year round. The marina offers a range of facilities and services for visitors and boat owners.

Boat Launch and Rentals

The marina has a boat launch ramp, which is now open. There is a range of boats available to rent, including patio boats, ski boats, fishing boats, and kayaks. The least expensive option is a kayak, which costs $80 for a 4-hour period. The marina also offers pontoon boats, premium sport boats, and fishing boats for half-day, full-day, or overnight rentals.

Boat Storage

For those who own their boats, Lake Sonoma Marina offers covered slips for storage. Slip fees are calculated based on the length of the boat or the slip, whichever is greater.

Recreation and Amenities

The marina has day-use picnic areas with BBQ pits and a volleyball court. There are also two designated swimming areas, one to the left of the launch ramp, and another at the end of the Overflow Parking Lot. The grass areas can be used by visitors, as long as they have not been reserved by another party. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. The marina also has a deli, which serves sandwiches, hotdogs, and drinks, including beer, water, soda, and wine.

Camping

Lake Sonoma Marina now also offers camping spots, which can be reserved online.

Frequently asked questions