Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Benbow Lake State Recreation Area is a scenic outdoor destination in California. It features a beautiful lake, camping sites, hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and recreational activities for visitors. The dam served two purposes: it generated electricity, and it formed Benbow Lake.
The Benbow family, eager to ensure the continued existence of the beautiful natural landscape surrounding their Hotel and the river, advocated for the site to be placed under State protection. The Benbow Project was purchased in 1958 after funding was granted in 1956.
There are now campgrounds and a huge picnic area for day visitors at this park. In the summer, many people go hiking, picnicking, and camping; in the winter, many people go salmon and steelhead fishing. In this far-flung corner of California, average July highs can reach 87 degrees. Temperatures in the winter rarely drop below 37 degrees.
Campsites in the Benbow Lake State Park
Benbow Lake State Recreation Area’s camping facilities have recently undergone refurbishment. Online booking is available. Benbow Lake is home to 77 campsites. Water taps are scattered around the campground, but no RV connections exist. There are washrooms and showers at a central location.
All areas and services are accessible to those using wheelchairs. A dump station is near the park’s entrance, the kiosk and campsite headquarters. RVs can be up to 30 feet long, and trailers can be no longer than 24 feet.
Boating At Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Benbow Lake State Recreation Area has yet to have a boat launch. It is also important to emphasize that the recreation area does not feature a lake. However, if you have a canoe or kayak, the South Fork of the Eel River is a beautiful area to stop and take in the scenery. Whether looking for a fun way to stay in shape, see the sights, or get to the most excellent fishing site, this is a fantastic place to mess around in a boat.
Geocaching AT Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Geocaching is a modern outdoor treasure hunt. Players use GPS to place and retrieve unique containers globally at predetermined locations. A player who unearths one of these containers can record their find in the inside logbook before replacing it in its original location.
According to reports, geocaching containers may be hidden in Benbow Lake State Recreation Area. Join the worldwide treasure quest.
Picnicking At Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Although there is no lake at Benbow Lake State Recreation Area, it is nevertheless a beautiful spot for a picnic. A traditional American weenie roast would look beautiful against the South Fork Eel River landscape and the hills of northern California. Shaded by ancient redwoods, the park’s picnic area will make you feel like you’ve returned in time. Larger picnic groups can enjoy the park’s fantastic community campfire area.
Hiking At Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Hiking in Benbow Lake State Recreation Area will be a highlight of your California road trip in your campervan. Thrap Mill Trail, a historic logging road, leads up from the campground’s higher end into the majestic redwood groves of northern California.
Once on the trail, you can go in several directions, some of which will take you through beautiful ravines and others to breathtaking vantage points. Stop by the information booth if you need help figuring out how to get around the park.
Fishing At Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
Bring your RV or trailer to experience world-class steelhead and Chinook salmon fishing. These fish are among the most exciting to catch and tasty to eat of any sport fish in the country.
In addition, you won’t find a more beautiful location than Benbow Lake State Recreation Area. Imagine yourself angling for beautiful fish amidst the towering, ancient redwoods. Remember that despite the name, the dam and lake have been removed, making fishing at Benbow much better.
Address: 445 Lake Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542, United States
Opens–Closed: 8 am-4 pm
Phone: +1 707-247-3318
Area: 1,142 acres (4.62 km2)
Established: 1958
