Benbow State Recreation Campground
4.3137 reviews445 Lake Benbow Drive, Garberville, CA 95542
Benbow State Recreation Campground
$35.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$5.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees range from $35 to $40 per night, with additional fees for extra vehicles ($10 each). Firewood bundles are available for $8-$10 depending on season. Hot showers require coins (50 cents for a few minutes).
About this campground
Nestled along the gentle curves of the South Fork Eel River, Benbow State Recreation Campground invites you to experience Northern California's natural splendor across 75 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Each site comes equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under towering redwoods, while convenient water faucets are scattered throughout the grounds. Though the nearby Highway 101 provides a whisper of civilization and easy access for travelers exploring the Pacific Coast, the campground maintains its connection to the wild, offering a perfect balance between accessibility and natural immersion.
Benbow State Recreation Campground offers diverse camping options, including RV sites, tent camping, and group sites. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons, while drive-ups are accommodated in overflow sites.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds deep stories within its soil, having served as home to the Wailaki and Sinkyone peoples for countless generations before European settlement. Today, hikers can discover echoes of a different era along forest trails, where the weathered remnants of the historic Thrap Mill stand as silent witnesses to the region's logging heritage. These layers of human history add depth to every campfire conversation and riverside meditation.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with each passing season, creating distinct experiences throughout the year. June and July herald the arrival of perfect swimming weather, when warm sunshine filters through the redwood canopy and families splash in the crystal-clear river pools. As summer wanes, visitors should note that late-season algae blooms can affect water conditions. Winter brings dramatic change, with heavy Pacific storms painting the landscape in shades of gray and green, creating a moody, contemplative atmosphere that appeals to those seeking solitude amid nature's raw power.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain elusive, the campground's position within the river valley creates its own unique microclimate, where morning mists rise from the water to meet the towering redwoods above.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden light filtering through ancient coastal redwoods, their massive trunks creating natural cathedrals around your campsite. The South Fork Eel River serves as the campground's liquid heart, offering refreshing swimming holes, productive fishing spots, and endless opportunities for wildlife observation. Keep your eyes peeled for river otters playing in the shallows, great blue herons stalking the banks, and if you're lucky, the occasional black bear foraging in the distance.
Geological RegionBenbow sits at the heart of the legendary Eel River watershed, where the designated Wild and Scenic South Fork has carved its way through one of the planet's most biodiverse temperate forests. This is redwood country at its finest, where ancient giants stretch skyward from a landscape shaped by millennia of flooding, forest succession, and human enterprise. The region's logging legacy has given way to conservation, creating a fascinating mosaic of old-growth groves and recovering forests that tell the story of California's evolving relationship with its natural treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available, including sites #8, #44, #45, and #65. Accessible amenities include water spigots, parking, routes, and restrooms.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some reviews praising large and private sites while others describe cramped conditions, particularly in the first loop.
Sites PrivacySites offer varying levels of privacy. Some are clustered near Highway 101, while others, like those near the river, provide better seclusion and scenic views.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites along the river (e.g., 39, 41, 42) for quieter stay and scenic views. Avoid sun-drenched or highway-adjacent sites if seeking privacy or shade.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include 10, 11, 33-39, 41-44, 46, 55, 57, 59, 60, 62-66, 68, 70-75, particularly those along the river for scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Campground max stay is seasonal, with closures during fall and winter.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests, including children, are allowed per campsite.
Groups
Group sites accommodate larger parties, with descriptions mentioning up to eight people per campsite as per park rules.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with each loop offering varying proximity to the river, highway, and additional amenities like showers and restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Closed during fall and winter seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for first-come-first-served (drive-ups), particularly in less crowded loops during the off-peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be made at ReserveCalifornia.com. Cancellation policies are not explicitly detailed in the sources.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Benbow State Recreation Campground is known for its recreational activities, including hiking trails, fishing, and swimming access to the Eel River. Picnicking and wildlife viewing are also popular among visitors.
Hiking
The campground offers access to several trails, including Thrap Mill Trail and Pioneer Trail, which lead through coastal redwoods and provide scenic views of the South Fork of the Eel River. Trail lengths and difficulty levels vary, with Pioneer Trail providing a loop option.Fishing
Catch-and-release fishing is allowed in the South Fork Eel River. Salmon and steelhead are the prominent species, with fishing being most popular during winter months.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Eel River, with June and July being the best months for warm, clear water. Access is available from both the day-use area and the campground, but algae blooms may present seasonal hazards.Biking
Biking is permitted only on paved roadways. Riders under 18 must wear helmets. User reviews reference groups of children biking around the campground as a common activity.Boating
Visitors can enjoy non-motorized boating activities in the Eel River, such as rafting and kayaking, with gentle currents suitable for beginners.Wildlife viewing
North American river otters are occasionally seen in the Eel River. User reviews mention sightings as highlights of their visits.Beach activities
The campground provides access to beach areas along the South Fork Eel River, suitable for swimming and sunbathing.Winter Activities
Winter activities include salmon and steelhead fishing in the Eel River.Water Sports
Water sports like rafting, kayaking, and tubing are popular due to the river's gentle current and clear water.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in established metal fire rings or camp stoves; gathering firewood in the park is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is present throughout the campground; late summer algae blooms in the river can be harmful to children and pets.
Active alertsSanitation dump station is closed until further notice.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 0.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital: Jerold Phelps Community Hospital in Garberville, approximately 2 miles north. Local police services available in Garberville. Ranger stations are located within Benbow State Recreation Area.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season typically aligns with Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available, and campers are encouraged to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles to protect local wildlife and plants.
Proximity to water featuresSeveral swimming holes and river access points along the South Fork Eel River; sites near the river (e.g., 39, 41, 42) are particularly close.
Common complaintsTraffic noise from U.S. Highway 101 is a recurring concern. Some reviews mention lack of rule enforcement, slow bathroom plumbing, and noise from generators and barking dogs.
HostCampground hosts are available, described as helpful and friendly in user reviews.
Campground Map
445 Lake Benbow Drive, Garberville, CA 95542
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 101, take Exit 636 for Benbow Drive. Turn south onto Benbow Drive and follow the signs to the Benbow State Recreation Area campground. Large vehicles and RVs should use South Benbow Drive due to road conditions.
The campground is accessible via U.S. Highway 101, which is a major paved road. However, North Benbow Drive is a one-lane road with a hill that can be challenging for large vehicles and RVs.Nearby places
Garberville (2 miles south, approximately 5 minutes by car)
Redway (approximately 5 miles, 10 minutes by car)
Eureka (approximately 70 miles north, 1.5 hours by car).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials available in Garberville, approximately 2 miles north. Options include gas stations and small local markets.
Camper Reviews
4.3
37 reviews
Benbow State Recreation Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Benbow State Recreation Campground show mixed experiences. Positive highlights include access to the Eel River, clean facilities, and helpful staff. Complaints often revolve around traffic noise from Highway 101, poorly enforced rules, and issues with plumbing in restrooms and showers.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praise the campground's proximity to the Eel River, large and private campsites, clean showers and bathrooms, and friendly staff. The availability of fire pits and access to local...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include traffic noise from Highway 101, poorly enforced quiet hours, and maintenance issues such as clogged toilets. Some visitors also noted that certain campsites lacked shade...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend reserving campsites closer to the river for better views and quieter experiences. Some advise bringing earplugs due to Highway 101 noise. Others suggest looking out for algae...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User reviews highlight that summer months are ideal for swimming in the Eel River and warmer weather. Winter is better for fishing, while spring and fall may have reduced amenities due to seasonal...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We had a wonderful time at this campsite. It was Memorial weekend 2021 and was packed to the fullest."
"Nice facilities, great beach access but very close to Highway 101."
"Cool camping spot on Eel...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best campsites include 10, 11, 33-39, 41-44, 46, 55, 57, 59, 60, 62-66, 68, 70-75. User reviews highlight sites near the river for quieter and more scenic experiences, while those in the first two...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews of accessible features are positive, with accessible campsites (#8, #44, #45, and #65) offering clean and well-maintained amenities.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed on leashes, but some reviews recommend caution near the river and trails due to algae blooms and poison oak.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025