Richardson Grove State Park & Benbow State Reserve

Two parks on the south fork of the Eel river.   

Richardson Grove State Park is where you first encounter significant old-growth redwood forest when coming north.
The park has family campgrounds and a group camp totaling 170 campsites, as well as a day use picnic area along the Eel River.  
Facilities & Activities:
Huckleberry & Madrone campgrounds. Sites: tents/ hikers & cyclists / trailers up to 24' / motorhomes up to 30' Restrooms & hot showers Picnic area Swimming & fishing Summer nature programs; Evening Campfire, Junior Rangers, Guided Nature Walks Visitor Center and Nature Store located in historic 1930s Richardson Grove Lodge. Over nine miles of hiking trails WiFi        

Benbow State Reserve: Soon after U.S. Hwy 101 leaves the ancient redwood forest of Richardson Grove State Park, it opens into the magnificent Benbow Valley. Immediately adjacent to the mock-Tudor Benbow Inn (easily visable from the highway) is Benbow State Recreation Area. Open for day use only. The park consists of about 1,200 acres. with a large day-use picnic area on the river.