Benbow Lake State Recreation Area, located two miles south of Garberville just off the Redwood Highway, U.S. 101, provides visitors with opportunities for swimming, boating, picnicking, guided tours, nature walks, exhibits, programs, and family camping, with special sites for hikers and bikers.

The 26-acre Benbow Lake, which is created each summer by the placement of a removable barrier across the South Fork of the Eel River, comes into existence on an irregular schedule, depending on the flow volume of the river, temperature, and other environmental factors that may impact fish and other denizens of the habitat.

In 2004, the campground at Benbow Lake State Recreation Area was recognized by Reserve America, a private enterprise that handles park reservations across the nation, as one of America’s top 100 destinations for families seeking a quality camping experience.

Ten of the cited campgrounds were in California, and nine of them were in the State Parks system. Awarding of the recognition was based on park amenities, beautiful outdoor scenery, and educational programs. The criteria required for selection included location of the park within 100 miles of a metropolitan area and that it offer hot showers,

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laundry facilities, hiking trails, family beaches, radio-free zones, visitor centers, educational programs, and children’s events.

Originally owned by the Benbow Family, the site of the recreation area began to develop in 1925 when a Tudor-style hotel, now known as the Benbow Inn, was built.

At the request of the Benbow Family, the state established the recreation area in 1958 on 207 acres of property. The facility now includes 1,200 acres.

The campground, which includes 75 family sites, is open all year. Facilities include boat rentals, picnic areas, restrooms, showers, RV hookups and dump station, and accommodations for campers up to 30 feet long and trailers up to 24 feet.