Copyright: California State Parks
Benbow Lake
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Description - A popular destination, Benbow Lake SRA was first established in 1958. Prior to that, the area was used by settlers, ranchers and loggers until 1922 when the Benbow family purchased much of the land in the valley. Some of the land was subdivided and sold for home sites. The Benbow Hotel, as it was originally named, was built in 1925 and opened for business in 1926.
To provide power for the new development in the valley, a concrete dam was constructed across the South Fork of the Eel River in 1928. The dam not only provided power but also created Benbow Lake. The Benbow family, interested in preserving the natural scene around the Hotel and along the river, made efforts to place the land under State protection. In 1956 funds were approved for the Benbow Project and the first 207 acres were purchased in 1958.
Attractions
- A popular destination, Benbow Lake SRA was first established in 1958. Prior to that, the area was used by settlers, ranchers and loggers until 1922 when the Benbow family purchased much of the land in the valley. Some of the land was subdivided and sold for home sites. The Benbow Hotel, as it was originally named, was build in 1925 and opened for business in 1926. To provide power for the new development in the valley , a concrete dam was constructed across the south fork of the Eel River in 1928. The dam not only provided power but also created Benbow Lake. The Benbow family, interested in preserving the natural scene around the Hotel and along the river, made efforts to place the land under State protection. In 1956 funds were approved for the Benbow Project and the first 207 acres were purchased in 1958.
Recreation - Today the park consists of about 1,200 acres with 75 campsites and a large day-use picnic area. The campground is open year round and reservations can be made from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend. Hiking, swimming, picnicking and camping are popular summer time activities, while salmon and steelhead fishing are popular in the winter. There are no hookups in the campgrounds. Climate - Summers are generally mild. Fog is often encountered near the coastline, with sunny, warmer weather more common inland in the foothills. Winters are generally cool with considerable precipitation. Wear layers of clothing to accommodate cool to warm temperatures and good walking shoes. Rain protection should be included at any time of year. Location -
Go two miles south of Garberville on Hwy. 101 to reach the entrance to the Benbow Lake recreation area.
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Benbow Lake State Recreation Area
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