Named for the longhorn cattle that once roamed wild, the 52,000-acre Cow Mountain Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The terrain is rugged, consisting mostly of steep, chaparral-covered slopes with scattered stands of fir, pine and oak. Elevations range from 800 to 4,000 feet. The area offers beautiful views of Ukiah and Clear Lake, over 31 miles of stream, 13 wildlife reservoirs, and habitat for blacktail deer, bear, wild turkey, and other upland species. 

The Recreation Area is divided into three management sections to provide quality recreational opportunities for a wide variety of users:  North Cow Mountain Recreation Area, South Cow Mountain OHV Recreation Area and the Sheldon Creek Recreation Site.

North Cow Mountain Recreation Area is managed for primarily non-motorized activities, such as hunting, hiking, camping, horseback riding, and mountain bicycling. There is one developed campground, a designated rifle range and a 17 mile network of foot trails beckoning to the adventurous spirit.  Motorized vehicles are permitted only on main road, and off-highway vehicles are prohibited.

South Cow Mountain OHV Recreation Area emphasizes off-highway vehicle use. Over 120 miles of vehicle trails interweave 23,000 acres, and offer challenges to motorcycle, all-terrain vehicle, and four-wheel drive enthusiasts alike. Non-motorized recreation is also welcome.  There are two developed campgrounds and two OHV staging areas

Maps of the area can be obtained at http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/ukiah/maps_ukiah.html