Mule Creek State Prison: General Overview
Mule Creek State Prison (MCSP), located in Ione, California, is a state correctional facility designed to house male inmates. Opened in 1987, MCSP was initially intended to address the overcrowded California prison system. Currently, it holds over 4,000 inmates, surpassing its original capacity of approximately 3,800. The facility accommodates medium- and minimum-security inmates, and it also houses some higher-security individuals. Inmates at Mule Creek benefit from various rehabilitation programs, including vocational training, substance abuse treatment, and educational opportunities aimed at reducing recidivism
The prison’s location in Amador County, at the base of California’s Gold Country foothills, provides an isolated setting, contributing to a structured and secure environment
Contact Information for Mule Creek State Prison
Address:
Mule Creek State Prison
4001 Highway 104,
Ione, CA 95640
United StatesTelephone Number:
(209) 274-4911Email:
[email protected] (general inquiries)
Inmates’ mailing addresses differ based on their assigned yard, but all mail should include the inmate’s name and CDCR number
Mule Creek State Prison Visiting Information
Visiting Mule Creek State Prison requires advanced approval. To start, you must submit a visitation application using CDCR Form 106, which must be signed by the inmate. Visits can be scheduled via the CDCR’s Visitor Scheduling Application (VSA). Regular visitation occurs on weekends and designated holidays
Visiting Hours:
- Friday: 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM (processing ends at 5:30 PM)
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM (processing ends at 2:00 PM)
Visitors must present a valid ID and pass through security screenings. Items allowed include personal identification, pre-approved small amounts of money, and prescription medication if required. Lockers are available for storage
What to Expect During a Visit
Prison visits are structured to ensure security while allowing family and friends to connect with inmates. Visitation areas are monitored, and interactions are typically restricted to non-contact formats depending on the inmate’s security level. Visits last a few hours, providing an essential connection to the outside world for rehabilitation and morale
How to Book a Mule Creek State Prison Visit
To book a visit, use the online Visitor Scheduling Application (VSA). You will need the inmate’s CDCR number and other personal details. Once approved, the VSA system allows you to select available visiting times. Ensure you follow all rules, including proper attire and adherence to the facility’s guidelines
Requirements:
- A government-issued ID for all visitors
- Pre-approval through Form 106
- Confirmation of the booking through the VSA system
- Up to three adults can visit an inmate at one time, and minors must be accompanied by an adult.
Directions and Parking for Mule Creek State Prison
Mule Creek State Prison is located off Highway 104 in Ione, CA, a rural area approximately 40 miles southeast of Sacramento. Driving is the primary means of access, as public transportation is limited. Parking is available on-site for visitors, and there are designated areas for visitor check-in
What Life is Like for Inmates at Mule Creek State Prison
Mule Creek State Prison provides inmates with various rehabilitation programs, including vocational training in carpentry, welding, auto mechanics, and gardening. Educational programs such as Adult Basic Education and GED preparation are available. Inmates also participate in community service crews, and those eligible may work outside the prison in fire camps
Mental health services, substance abuse recovery programs, and specialized groups like “Guiding Rage into Power” (GRIP) help inmates prepare for life after release. Despite these opportunities, the prison struggles with overcrowding, which presents ongoing challenges
Famous Prisoners at Mule Creek State Prison
Mule Creek has housed several notorious individuals, including:
- Scott Peterson: Convicted of murdering his pregnant wife, Laci Peterson
- Michael Carson: Serial killer responsible for multiple ritualistic murders
- John Albert Gardner III: Convicted of the rape and murder of two women in California
- Luis Reynaldo “Tree Frog” Johnson: Pedophile, rapist, and kidnapper with a notorious criminal past
These infamous inmates highlight the complexity and severity of cases handled by Mule Creek State Prison.
FAQs About Mule Creek State Prison
Where is Mule Creek State Prison located?
Mule Creek State Prison is located in Ione, California, about 40 miles southeast of Sacramento.How can I contact Mule Creek State Prison?
You can reach Mule Creek by calling (209) 274-4911 or mailing correspondence to 4001 Highway 104, Ione, CA.What are Mule Creek State Prison’s visiting hours?
Visiting hours are Friday from 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM.How do I send mail to an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison?
Inmate mail should be sent to the inmate’s name and CDCR number at P.O. Box 409099, Ione, CA.What type of programs are available for inmates at Mule Creek?
Inmates can participate in educational programs, vocational training, and recovery groups like AA and GRIP.How many inmates does Mule Creek State Prison hold?
Mule Creek can hold up to 4,971 male inmates().
Who is the warden of Mule Creek State Prison?
The current warden is Patrick Covello().
Can I send money to an inmate at Mule Creek?
Yes, you can send money via JPAY, Access Corrections, or by mailing a check().
How do I book a visit to Mule Creek State Prison?
Visits are booked through the VSA system after submitting CDCR Form 106 and receiving approval.What security level is Mule Creek State Prison?
Mule Creek houses medium- and minimum-security inmates, but it also holds some higher-security prisoners.
Conclusion
Mule Creek State Prison plays a pivotal role in California’s correctional system, offering rehabilitation and educational programs to prepare inmates for life post-incarceration. Despite its challenges, including overcrowding, the facility remains focused on inmate reform and safety. Whether you’re visiting or contacting an inmate, Mule Creek provides various resources to maintain connections with the outside world, aiding in rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.
For more information, visit the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.