Geologists tell us the Ukiah area was once covered by a large lake. The Indians speak of a "great rumbling" that happened "many moons ago" and the lake vanished as through it had never been there. Indians have been coming to the area for many years to gather wild blue camas root early in the summer, relying on the root as a food source. Originally called Camas Prairie, the name was changed to Ukiah by E.B. Gambee who lived in Ukiah, California prior to Ukiah, Oregon. With just at 250 people, Ukiah still maintains the "small-town, independent" character it did when it was first founded in the late 1800's. The town welcomes visitors and provides receptionists essential services as they enjoy the many outdoor activities readily available in the area:birding, biking, hiking, hunting and camping.