James Family Lake Restoration

On the night of October 8th, 2017, the James Family Lake suffered severe damage as the Tubbs Fire rolled over the Calistoga hills during a night of historic destruction. While thankfully no one was camping at the lake during this time and thus no lives were in danger, the property incurred massive devastation. All man-made structures such as the dock, ramp, outhouse, and most importantly, the Bridge of Prayer, were lost. A storage shed full of camping equipment, supplies, power tools, etc. was also burned to the ground. The majority of the trees and foliage on the lake grounds were also destroyed. 

This lake has been part of our family since the 1960s when it was purchased by my grandfather, John Y James. It has been used as a family camping retreat and memorial grounds for many of our family's loved one's that have passed away over the last several decades. 

We have enjoyed sharing our love of the lake with our friends and loved ones for several years, and we are now in the uncomfortable position of asking for financial assistance to help us restore the lake. Any donations given to this fund will be used for purchase of tools and labor as we begin the long process of restoring the many structures, items, and wildlife lost in the fire. 

While our family was heartbroken to realize that so much of the property has been lost, we are still blessed to have this special place in our lives. We are resolved to put in all the work and time necessary to make this place the fun and safe gathering spot it has been for decades. 

We appreciate all the prayers, well wishes and good thoughts we have received since this natural disaster began. We are lucky that our homes and loved ones were kept safe during these fires and we sadly realize that many residents who live close to the lake cannot say the same. 

Thank you so much for any contribution you can give. We will be posting updates with our recovery progress on this page for the next several months and quite possibly years. 

For GoFundMe:

My name is Jacob James. I live in Cotati, CA, although the property that was destroyed is property is located just outside of Calistoga close to Petrified Forrest Road and Mountain Home Ranch Road. This propery is co-owned by father, Jeff James, and his living sibilings. This is property that has been owned by our family since the 1960s. 

The funds will be distributed into personal bank accounts and be allocated for puchases to help restore the lake and surrounding area. These purchases include tools, supplies, and possible outside labor help. The first funds will go towards a motor for a small aluminium boat to help us collect and move debris from the lake onto land. The funds being collected are from generous friends and familiy.