Benbow State Recreation Area Campground

Benbow SRA Campground offers several amenities to support your camping experience. The campground features coin-operated showers and bathrooms that are cleaned daily. Remember to bring dollar bills for the shower facilities. The campground accommodates RVs up to 34 feet, though some low-hanging branches may be encountered when navigating larger rigs. Some sites are first-come, first-served (approximately 15-20 sites), which can be beneficial during busy periods. The campground provides easy access to the South Fork of the Eel River with a very short walk to the water.

Benbow SRA Campground offers a more natural setting than Benbow KOA but with fewer amenities. The SRA campground is positioned close to Highway 101, resulting in some road noise, particularly during the day. It offers approximately 15-20 first-come, first-served sites, making it a good backup option when other campgrounds in the Garberville area are full. Privacy between sites is limited. The campground can accommodate RVs up to 34 feet, though with some challenges navigating branches. In contrast, Benbow KOA and other private RV parks in the area typically offer more extensive amenities like full hookups, WiFi, and planned activities, but at higher prices.

To find maps and photos of Benbow State Recreation Area Campground, check the California State Parks official website, which typically provides downloadable campground maps, facility information, and official photos. The Dyrt camping app and website also feature user-submitted photos and campsite information. For the most current and detailed maps, contact the Benbow SRA ranger station directly. Additionally, the California Department of Parks and Recreation visitor centers often provide printed maps and brochures of the area.

Benbow State Recreation Area offers excellent access to the South Fork of the Eel River, which is the primary recreational draw. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and wading in the river, particularly refreshing during summer months. The short walking distance from the campground to the water makes river activities easily accessible for all campers. The surrounding area features hiking opportunities through the beautiful Northern California landscape. The campground's location near Highway 101 also makes it convenient for day trips to explore the redwood forests, nearby state parks, and the charming towns of the region.