The best camping near Benbow State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Benbow State Recreation Area adventure.

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Community favorites near Benbow State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Benbow State Recreation Area

Upper Loop

1 site In Benbow State Recreation Area

from

$30

/ night

Lower Loop

In Benbow State Recreation Area

Middle Loop

1 site In Benbow State Recreation Area

from

$30

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Benbow State Recreation Area

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Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

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Shelter Cove Campground

90 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Whitethorn, CA

Take a deep breath. Experience nature. The drive out to this remote area is well worth it for those who like to fish, crab, dive for abalone or watch for whales. Photographers, hikers and nature lovers will have plenty to do as well. The thick redwood forests surrounding the village are home to bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, black tail deer.....and if you believe the legend, Bigfoot. The rock shoreline makes Shelter Cove a refuge for seals and sea lions, and it boasts some of the world's richest tide pools. There are picnic areas that offer access to the beach or the rocks below the bluffs. Each rate is for four people at a site, access to bathrooms, showers and coin operated washer and dryer. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring (see note below reference firewood). NOTE: State ordinances require firewood to be purchased locally, therefore we source our firewood from the local provider here in the cove. Alan wraps extra big bundles and packs a little kindling in each. Let us know how many we need and we'll deliver right to your site. The campground is open all year. During our busy season, we suggest that you call for reservations and for more information regarding the rates and what they include. Our numbers are listed on our Contact page, our Facebook page and on Instagram. The Lost Coast In the 1920's, when they built the Coast Highway in Northern California, engineers decided a stretch of coast from Northern Mendocino County through the King Range in Humboldt County was too rugged for a road. Thus, this expanse of magnificent coastline was soon isolated and became known as the "Lost Coast". Highly-valued seaside resort. The small community of Shelter Cove, on the coast just below King Range, lies at the core of the Lost Coast. Being cut off from the rest of California has helped Shelter Cove remain a peaceful seaside resort with peerless scenery that is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Diverse wildlife within reach We are home to many deer that like to hang out in the campground and on the golf course. We also have bald eagles, osprey, and foxes. Not to mention our many sea creatures, such as whales, seals, sea lions, otters and fish of many different species. Take a walk on the beach during low tide and enjoy the many tidepools. Events and Functions at Shelter Cove Campground. From May to October we have many different events for those that are looking for something to do. In May we have our Kayak Conventions and Memorial Day celebration. May also starts our Campground Karaoke which takes occasionally on Friday night at 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm. During our holiday celebrations, we have BBQ's with chicken, ribs and fresh oysters. We also offer music for your listening pleasure while you enjoy the beautiful ocean views and the Cape Mendocino lighthouse. Full Hook Up RV Sites Settle your RV into our designated back-in grass sites, tailor-made for RVs under 35 feet. Enjoy full hookups, 30 amp electricity, water, and sewer. Ocean views grace every corner of our campground, creating a serene backdrop for your stay. Each site accommodates up to six people, with a nominal charge for each person beyond four. Book your spot today! Van/Tent Dry Camping Sites Establish your campsite, whether it's a tent, truck camper, van, or RV, in our dry camping area. Water is conveniently accessible at fill stations scattered across the campground, and our guests have access to a communal bathroom with showers. Join us for a delightful blend of nature and comfort at Shelter Cove Campground. Your adventure begins here! Pet Policy All our RV & Tent sites are pet friendly and we allow up to two dogs per reservation for a small fee. We love dogs, but sadly won't be able to accommodate pets that aren't trained or are a nuisance. Additionally, our insurance will not allow "aggressive breeds" that include any mix of: Pit Bull, Rottweiler, Doberman or German Sheppard. Please pick up after your pup and use a leash when at the camp. Thank you in advance for your consideration and help in keeping our camp a mellow and enjoyable place for everyone.

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Wendy & John Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ferndale, CA

For Ferndale, the village: check out https://www.visitferndale.com/souvenir-edition About our property: There is a gentle spirit throughout these beautiful 80 acres of evergreen forests and pastures. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from the first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who immigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) Paolo's wife Felicita and their three children stayed behind; they were to follow within the year. In the country outside of Ferndale, California, Paolo purchased the property one mile from the ocean and built a Tyrolean-style house, a chicken house (with a grappa still under the main floor), an outhouse, a corral, and a barn. He purchased 7 cows. And then, it was August 1914, and the War to End All Wars broke out in Europe. Felicita and the children, living in their village on the Austrian border, were interned in a prison camp in Austria with the rest of the village's residents. The Gabriellis' young daughter died there. Six years passed before Felicita and her sons, Virgil and Louis, were able to join Paolo in America. In 1938, Virgil--Fr. Gino--became the first Ferndale boy to serve Mass in his hometown church. Felicita died in 1940, and Paolo closed the dairy and moved into Ferndale. In 2013, we invited the people who had been children in the 1920s and '30s and who had come to this ranch after Sunday Mass to gather with other Italian families for polenta, wine, and music. These old-timers came to our house with photographs and maps and Mass cards and diaries, and shared their memories of a childhood in this place that still embraced them. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff to purchase if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler). Free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit. Or total solitude. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.)

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Meadow Farm & Forest

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. Our garden is reduced this time of year but we may still have something to share. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

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Hidden meadow

2 sites · Tents20 acres · CA

Get ready to be embraced by nature! Our cozy campsites are snuggled within a charming willow grove, right on the fringe of our verdant organic field, where we grow colorful flowers and various veggies, as well as pumpkins for our pumpkin patch here on our commercial organic farm. You won't believe the view! Imagine waking up to the sight of a color-soaked field, a rolling hillside, and distant mountains painting the horizon. And oh, let's not forget the convenience – we're comfortably tucked less than two miles off Route 101. Plus, we're just a hop, skip, and a jump (over a mile, to be exact) away from the cute-as-a-button Victorian village of Ferndale. Navigating your way around? It's a piece of cake! Adventure awaits, and we can't wait to welcome you.

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Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

13 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Retreat to the redwoods, and relax to the sounds of birds and chipmunks and the babbling of a year round creek. Just 5 minutes from highway 1 on the gorgeous Mendocino coast and less than 10 minutes to Fort Bragg or the village of Mendocino. Enjoy 10 acres of Family, pet and horse friendly redwoods, Pygmy and transitional land, abundant with wildlife, huckleberries, redwoods, and sunshine. Find a tire swing in the trees, or bring your chairs to the creek and splash around in the cool water with the kids and pups. Toilet and hot shower available. WiFi , water, and electricity available in some areas and campfires allowed in fire pits. Nearby you’ll find countless miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, ancient redwoods and Pygmy forests, secluded beaches, gorgeous state parks, and quaint towns. Kayaking, SUP, fishing, surfing, whale watching, wine tasting and tours, shopping, dining, galleries, restaurants, breweries, and bars are all minutes away. Whether it’s just you and your dog, or the whole family and all the kids, we have the perfect hideaway for you to set up camp and make yourself at home.

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Eel River Escape

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Benbow, CA

This property is conveniently located in historic highway 101. It's 4.5 terraced acres overlooking the south fork Eel River. It is adjacent to the Reggae on the River and Northern Nights festival sites. It's less than a mile from the tourist attraction One Log house and Richardson Grove state park. The property is a permitted educational cannabis farm implementing regenerative agriculture practices.We have several accommodation options! You can stay in our fully furnished bell tent tucked away in a charming garden. It has a full bed with foam topper, charge station, lounge chair, fan or heater, wireless speaker, and wifi. The property has hot outdoor shower and viewing bluff overlooking Eel river. Enjoy convenient hwy 101 location close to state park and dispensary. Wake up, dine and stroll in this dreamy garden! We also have camping and RV sites that have morning shade, and epic views and two levels of camping area.

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Raven's Landing - Mendocino Coast

4 sites · RVs3 acres · Fort Bragg, CA

Note: This beautiful undeveloped campground has no facilities... to camp here, you MUST have a fully self-contained vehicle with your own potty. It is best suited for RV's, not camping (unless you have your own portable toilet). Nestled in a sunny clearing surrounded by the magical redwoods, this sweet 3.25 acre sanctuary invites you to come relax and renew. You'll be close enough to the coast that you can hear the ocean and gentle rhythm of the fog horns in the distance, but far enough that you're out of the fog. Sometimes you can hear the Harbor Seals and Sea Lions in the Noyo River. Conveniently located near all area activities yet you're tucked away with privacy. Raven's Landing is only 5 mins from the local health food market, 10 minutes to the ocean and ten miles of trail along the coast, 8 mins to Ft. Bragg center and 15 to the quaint village of Mendocino. Walking trails on the property, meditation labyrinth and lovely gardens are available to visit by arrangement. Please read the below before contacting us as most of the questions we receive are answered here: FAQ's • Are fires allowed? - No, Sorry. A fire ban in currently in effect. • Are pets allowed? - Yes, on leash. Please clean up after your pet for everyone's enjoyment. • Can you accommodate tents or car camping? - We can, BUT campers must provide their own toilet. There is no toilet on site. We are best suited for RV's. • We are experienced wilderness campers with no trace skills, can we camp without facilities? - Sorry, no. Everyone must have their own potty. We do not have a bathhouse, shower, toilet or outhouse. • We have a camp stove, can we use it on the picnic table? - Yes, if someone is in full attendance at all times. • Is the picnic table / fire pit area communal? / shared space? - YES! If you use it, please leave space for other campers. • Are we allowed to explore the property? - Yes! We have trails, a beautiful labyrinth, a medicine wheel, some artsy installations and lots of natural beauty, . • How late can we arrive? - We ask that folks arrive by 9:30pm so they are fully set up and settled in for our 10:00pm quiet time. This allows for all campers to enjoy their peace and time of rest. We have made special exceptions on a few occasions so please ask up front, so we have an opportunity to see if it would work. Thank you for your consideration. • How do I know which camp to choose? - Camp A is the only one with electric power and a water hose, so if you need those, that's your best choice. It is more out in the open and less private if there are other campers. Often folks are the only campers on site. Camp B is being phased out and will no longer be an option. Camp C is more private, tucked in the woods. All campsites have wifi. • How good it the wifi there? - Usually it's great! • How good it the cell service? - The Mendocino Coast has wildly varied cell service, some places have no service while others it's great. We have installed a booster so we have better service than many. Wifi-based calling is the best.

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Lost Coast Basecamp

5 sites · Lodging5 acres · Shelter Cove, CA

Blu Graham was born and raised on the Lost Coast. He is the owner and operator of Lost Coast Adventure Tours, a local guiding outfitter and shuttle service for the Lost Coast. He knows all the epic spots and history about the surrounding area. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, Lost Coast Base Camp is more than just a place to prep, refuel or rest after a trip; it's a vibrant hub of adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences. Designed with the spirited explorer in mind, this unique retreat serves as the ultimate base for your wilderness adventures, offering a communal atmosphere that is both welcoming and energizing. At Lost Coast Base Camp, we believe that true adventure is found not only in the wild landscapes that surround us but also in the stories and friendships forged around a crackling campfire. This is a place where connections are made effortlessly, and shared experiences create bonds that last a lifetime. Our communal living spaces, open dining areas, and group-led expeditions are all crafted to encourage interaction, collaboration, and the sharing of tales from the trail. If solitude is what you seek, Lost Coast Base Camp may challenge your expectations. Here, the emphasis is on community and connection. Our ethos is built on the belief that together, we can experience more deeply, learn more profoundly, and celebrate the spirit of adventure more vibrantly. Whether you're sharing a meal with fellow adventurers, teaming up for an impromptu hike, or exchanging stories under the stars, you'll find that our base camp is a place where privacy gives way to shared joy and individual journeys merge into collective escapades. Forget about the tedious task of unpacking and pitching your tent. Our bell tent camps are pre-set, standing ready as your private retreat amidst the great outdoors. The inclusion of cots means that you’re elevated from the ground, ensuring a comfortable rest that rejuvenates you for the adventures that lie ahead. Enjoy big skies overlooking a vast mountain range. Our boat camp and bus camp will also be available soon! We are located just a few miles from Shelter Cove and both the Northern and Southern Lost Coast Trail segments. Making it a perfect place for hikers, dual sport enthusiasts and anyone wanting to get away from the everyday hustle bustle. At Lost Coast Base Camp, every detail is designed to enhance your wilderness experience, including access to shared amenities that cater to both comfort and convenience. Enjoy ourseasonal fire pit or cook up a feast at the BBQ pit. Our enclosed bathrooms and hot showers provide a touch of home, while the communal full kitchen is perfect for preparing meals and sharing stories of the day's adventures. Plus, with a dedicated camp host on hand to provide you with wood, sleeping pads, or answer any questions you may have about the area, you're assured a hassle-free and enriching stay.

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Mendocino Magic

131 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents600 acres · Laytonville, CA

Mendocino Magic is a camping, fishing, wedding and outdoor events destination in inland Mendocino county, Northern California, just a few miles off Highway 101 in the heart of the Emerald Triangle. This unique sprawling 600-acre property is home to the largest privately-held reservoir in the North Coast region, perfect for swimming and catch & release fishing. We offer tent camping, RV & Car camping, luxe furnished tents, and cabins for your stay. Star gaze from the rolling hills of the Mendocino forest, kayak on our private Reservoir, and show off your BBQ skills with included campground amenities. Reserve your camp site early for the best availability. About half of our 2023 summer weekends are currently sold out. All Mendocino Magic Campers Enjoy the Following Amenities - Central Camp with tables, BBQ grills (propane provided), filtered water, and weekend fire dish run by staff. - Portapotty bathrooms with outdoor sinks. - Outdoor showers with hot water. - Access to Holland Reservoir, our private lake, for swimming, boating, and fishing. Kayaks are available at the lake for no additional charge - first come, first served. Bring your own life jackets if you need them. - Miles of hiking and biking trails through mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. - Some of the best stargazing in Northern California with frequent meteor showers. - Camping supplies delivered to your camp site (for an additional charge), including cooler rentals, ice. Mackenzie manages the campground with a team of incredible people. In a world increasingly connected in the digital sense, we invite you to come up and get back to your roots, and connect with people the old fashioned way. Come join us for stargazing, paintball, fishing & swimming, weddings & outdoor events, and camping!

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Red Wing Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Laytonville, CA

This property is spectacular with views and great hiking! Learn more about this land: Imagine a place where the songs of red wing blackbirds fill the air. A place where you can see as far as the ocean to the west, the mountains of Humboldt County to the north, the Mendocino National Forest to the east, and the mountains of Sonoma County to the south. This is Red Wing Ranch. While staying at Red Wing Ranch you will have the opportunity to walk on a section of the original stagecoach road, canoe in our private pond, watch the sunset over the Pacific ocean, and star gaze from what feels like a private planetarium. This is perfect for artists, writers, yogis, and those seeking the tranquility of off grid living. We have 40 acres of land with beautiful hiking in every direction. Our campsites have a fire pit, picnic table, and access to an outdoor shower and outdoor kitchen! The accommodation includes staying in a 850 square foot wooden yurt with bamboo floors. The building has a wooden stove and propane wall heat. We also have a fridge, stove for cooking and propane wall heater inside the yurt. There is a futon that sleeps 2 plus a kids size bed, but please bring sleeping bags or bedding. You can also put up two tents next to the yurt for more sleeping. We have now added also an attached kitchen and bathroom to the yurt so we have an indoor shower and full kitchen! There is a detached bathroom with a maintenance free composting toilet and simple outdoor kitchen. You will have access to cooking utensils and cookware, camp stove, and fire pit. There is a solar system so you have access to electricity and wifi. The drive from Willits is 25 minutes, with only the last 5 minutes on a dirt road. You can do the drive in any car, unless the occasional snowy conditions. There is plenty of parking next to the yurt for easy unpacking.. To access the coast you do have to go back through Willits and use highway 20.

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Highway 101 Haven

3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Hydesville, CA

Take a break from the long and winding 101 Highway. Our private, gated, open field is perfect to park your vehicle overnight or check out the 30ft yurt, if you need a bed or have a larger family. Located 5 minutes off Hwy. 101 , it's an easy stop to rest your head and get on your way with the many sights to see in the Pacific Northwest. Stroll the family garden and check out the sheep that graze the pasture land. There is a hot tub available for an added fee. Community fire pit and pingpong table available. Town is just 10 minutes away. There is also a convenient market a few blocks away. This is convenient to grab fresh made sandwiches and snacks for a picnic lunch, coffee in the morning or bottle of wine for the evening. The market also has a bathroom. Currently there is only a pit toilet at the property. We are 20 minutes from cruising the Avenue of the Giants and about 30 min. to the Beach. There are several State Parks in the area for hiking and swimming, including Swimmers Delight and the Humboldt Redwoods State Park which has over 17,000 acres of old-growth redwoods.

The best camping near Benbow State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

To provide power for the new development in the valley, a concrete dam was constructed across the south fork of the Eel River from 1931-1937. 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 it was purchased in 1958, creating Benbow Lake State Recreation Area.

Today the park consists of campsites and a large day-use picnic area. Hiking, picnicking and camping are popular summer time activities, while salmon and steelhead fishing are popular in the winter.