How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Mule Creek State Prison is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Mule Creek State Prison.

Frequently asked questions about Mule Creek State Prison

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Mule Creek State Prison.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Mule Creek State Prison?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Mule Creek State Prison. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Mule Creek State Prison?

   Mailing address:

   Mule Creek State Prison
   4001 CA-104
   Ione, CA 95640
   Phone: (209) 274-4911

   Business hours:

   • Monday: Open 24 hours
   • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
   • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
   • Thursday: Open 24 hours
   • Friday: Open 24 hours
   • Saturday: Open 24 hours
   • Sunday: Open 24 hours

5. What are the visiting hours at Mule Creek State Prison?

   Visiting hours at Mule Creek State Prison vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (209) 274-4911 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Mule Creek State Prison?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Mule Creek State Prison for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison?

   You can send money to an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Mule Creek State Prison, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Mule Creek State Prison?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Mule Creek State Prison for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Mule Creek State Prison, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Substance abuse recovery takes center stage at Mule Creek State Prison through multiple support programs including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and the Christian 12-Step program. The facility also addresses behavioral change through specialized groups such as Criminals and Gang-members Anonymous, which includes a dedicated re-entry component, and Self-Awareness and Recovery sessions focused on anger management. Additional therapeutic programming includes the Veterans' Support Group for formerly enlisted individuals and the Lifers' Support Group, while creative expression is fostered through Self-Exploration through Writing workshops.

Community engagement and victim impact awareness form key components of the facility's rehabilitation approach. The Victim Awareness Offender Program helps those incarcerated understand the broader effects of their actions, while the Juvenile Diversion Program may involve current residents in mentoring at-risk youth. The Gavel Club typically provides opportunities to develop public speaking and leadership skills. Like many California correctional facilities, Mule Creek State Prison may also offer educational services including GED preparation, adult basic education, and vocational training programs in areas such as building maintenance, food service, or office skills.

Mental health and medical services are typically available to address the comprehensive needs of the incarcerated population. The facility may provide individual and group counseling, psychiatric services, and general medical care. Religious and spiritual programs often complement the existing recovery-focused offerings, while recreational activities and library services may support personal development and constructive use of time during incarceration.

Daily Life & Visitation

Located in the foothills of California's gold country, Mule Creek State Prison operates within a structured environment where incarcerated individuals typically begin their days with early morning counts and meal service. The facility's location in Ione provides a backdrop of rolling hills, though the daily routine centers around institutional schedules that may include work assignments, educational opportunities, and participation in the facility's extensive programming options. Inmates often have access to various self-improvement programs including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, anger management through the Self-Awareness and Recovery program, and specialized support groups such as the Veterans' Support Group and Lifers' Support Group.

Family connections remain an important aspect of life at the facility, with visitation opportunities available for approved family members and friends who follow the institution's guidelines. The facility provides resources for families seeking to maintain contact, including information about visiting procedures and package policies. Between structured activities, inmates may participate in programs like the Gavel Club for public speaking skills, Self-Exploration through Writing, or the Victim Awareness Offender Program, which can provide meaningful ways to spend time while working toward personal development goals.

The prison's comprehensive programming extends to specialized initiatives such as Criminals and Gang-members Anonymous and its re-entry component, along with Christian 12-Step programs for those seeking faith-based recovery support. These programs typically operate alongside basic daily necessities like meals, medical care, and recreational time, creating a routine that balances institutional requirements with opportunities for personal growth and preparation for eventual reintegration into the community.