8 Great Places You've Never Heard Of: Ukiah, California

I too, happened on Ukiah, and fell in love with the town. As a
nutritionist from the East Coast with a company whose mission is to
use the power of live theater to turn kids on to healthy habits,
Ukiah was a wonderful surprize - with so many people, stores and
restaurants concerned with a sustainable food supply and organic
food. As luck would have it, I found a parking space right in front
of what looked like a fairly ordinary used bookstore. But, it was
far from ordinary- it was Mulligan Stew, the bookstore quoted in
the above article. I knew there was magic in the air, as customers
passionately discussed politics, sustainability and of course,
their favorite books. I had some time to chill after a very hectic
work schedule, and had that rare opportunity to spend a few days,
sinking into a good book. But which of the thousands should I
choose? I had a heartwarming discussion with the bookstore's owner,
who after much prodding to answer the question - which book has
meant the most to you, he shyly took a book off from behind the
counter, 'well I guess it would be this one' - The title: To Be Of
Use; the author, Dave Grizzle. It was the perfect read for me, and
I encourage anyone out that way to visit Dave and his wonderful
bookstore, and if you can't meet Dave in person, at least meet him
through his enlightening book!

I am from the Ukiah area. A few years ago I ventured out of
California and into Oregon. Within two years I was right back here
in Ukiah. I missed the diverse culture, arts, local community
participation, and the general friendliness of businesses. Where
else can you enjoy the quietness of a smaller city and yet drive
less than an hour in any direction and experience the coast and
larger cities, and sites? There are many RV parks, and campgrounds
around Ukiah. There are hiking trails, bike trails, a beautiful
lake open for swimming and boating, plays and theater, symphony,
unique shops, the Russian River, and so much more. Needless to
mention the wonderful array of restaurants and lodging facilities.
I recommend Ukiah as a place to visit and moreso, a place to live.
As a response to the previous comment about trailer parks. Yes,
there are some trailer parks. For more information I strongly
recommend you contacting the Greater Ukiah Chamber of Commerce in
Ukiah, Ca.

No mention was made of any campgrounds nearby. We live in an RV and
this sounds like an ideal place to be. Someone please let me know
of any campgrounds or or or trailer parks that would accept a
motorhome on a permanent basis. Thanks for any help.

I was born and raised in Ukiah California. I currently live in
Victoria British Columbia but I miss Ukiah. It is a beautiful
valley and a great community. I have several friends that grew up
in Ukiah with me who moved away from the valley out of school but
have returned to raise their children. I also worked for Real Goods
for 8 years and learned quite a bit about business, solar energy
and all things green. It was great to see Ukiah get the recognition
it so well deserves. Thank you for the article and photos. -Naomi
McBroom