Benbow KOA Holiday

Introduction / Overview

For Californians seeking a comprehensive and comfortable camping experience amidst the majestic redwoods, Benbow KOA Holiday in Garberville offers a unique resort-style escape. This isn't your average rustic campground; it's a full-service destination designed to provide a blend of outdoor adventure and modern conveniences, making it an ideal choice for families, RV enthusiasts, and those looking for a step up from traditional camping. Benbow KOA Holiday is celebrated for its array of amenities, from a sparkling pool and relaxing hot tub to a scenic 9-hole golf course, ensuring there's something for every member of the family. While some aspects of its operation or specific amenities may have received mixed feedback from past visitors, the overall goal is to offer a pleasant and engaging environment for guests exploring the beautiful Southern Humboldt area. It’s a fantastic option for those who appreciate the convenience of amenities after a day of exploring the wild wonders of the surrounding redwood forests and the tranquil Eel River. Benbow KOA Holiday serves as a convenient and comfortable base for uncovering the natural splendor and charming local attractions of Northern California.

Location and Accessibility

Benbow KOA Holiday is ideally situated at 7000 Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542, USA. This prime location places it directly off U.S. Highway 101, making it exceptionally accessible for travelers coming from both Northern and Southern California. Garberville is nestled in the heart of the Redwood Empire, and the campground itself is just a short drive from the famous Avenue of the Giants, offering unparalleled access to some of the world's tallest trees. Its proximity to the Eel River also provides opportunities for river-based recreation. While its location along a major highway offers convenience, some campers have noted potential road noise, especially from sites closer to the highway. However, the ease of access for large RVs and the convenience of being close to town amenities often outweigh this for many visitors. The campground is also a very short walk to the historic Benbow Historic Inn, providing an elegant dining option within easy reach. This strategic placement makes Benbow KOA Holiday a highly desirable stop or destination for Californians embarking on redwood adventures or traveling along the scenic 101 corridor.

Services Offered

• RV Sites: Benbow KOA Holiday offers over 100 pull-through and back-in RV sites. Most sites are paved, with cement patios, lawns, and picnic tables, and come with full hookups, including cable TV and complimentary Wi-Fi. Max amp is 50, and max length is 55 feet.
• Tent Camping: Dedicated tent sites are available for those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, with access to hot showers and laundry facilities.
• Cottage/Cabin Rentals: The campground features various lodging options, including luxury Park Model Cabins and Cottage Rentals. These can range from studio to two-bedroom units, often equipped with partial or full kitchens, private bathrooms, AC/heat, linens, and outdoor charcoal BBQs.
• Swimming Pool and Hot Tub: A sparkling swimming pool and a relaxing hot tub/Jacuzzi are available for guest use. The pool is typically open seasonally (e.g., May 1 - Oct 31), while the spa is often open year-round for guests of both the KOA and the Benbow Inn.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated laundry facilities are available, as noted by guests, providing a convenient amenity, especially for longer stays.
• Restrooms and Showers: Access to restrooms and shower buildings. Some reviews mention older bathroom facilities for campers/RVs and lights on timers in showers, suggesting variability.
• General Store: A convenient camp store is on-site, stocking camping necessities and other items.
• Propane: Propane services are available for RVs and other needs.
• Wi-Fi and Cable TV: Complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV are provided at most RV sites.
• Pet Amenities: Well-behaved dogs are welcome, and the resort features a "KampK9®" dog park and a "Salon’d Soggy Doggy™ Pet Wash" with hot and cold water.
• Meeting & Event Facilities: Gathering spaces like the Village Hall (up to 140 guests) and Friendship Hall (up to 30 guests) are available for group events, reunions, or corporate retreats.

Features / Highlights

• Resort-Style Amenities: A major highlight is the abundance of resort-style features, including a pool, hot tub, and a new splash park for kids, offering extensive recreational opportunities on-site.
• 9-Hole Golf Course: The campground features a scenic 9-hole, par 35 golf course, providing an excellent activity for golfers of all skill levels.
• Proximity to Benbow Historic Inn: Guests can enjoy elegant dining experiences at the nearby Benbow Historic Inn, just a short stroll away, offering breakfast, lunch (seasonal), and dinner.
• Access to Eel River: The campground is tucked away next to the Eel River, offering opportunities for river access, swimming, and fishing.
• Variety of Site Types: From luxury cabins to full hookup RV sites and tent sites, the KOA caters to diverse camping preferences and comfort levels.
• Family-Friendly Activities: During the summer season, children can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including a playground, sports court, arts & crafts, treasure hunts, and a video game room.
• Redwood Exploration: Its location provides excellent access to the giant redwood forests, including the famous Avenue of the Giants, perfect for sightseeing and hiking.
• Well-Maintained Grounds (Generally): Many reviews praise the campground for being clean and well-maintained, with nice level paved sites and grass between sites.
• Dog-Friendly Facilities: The dedicated dog park and pet wash facilities are a significant plus for pet owners.
• Flexible Check-in/Check-out: Check-in for RV and Tent sites is 1:00 PM, and check-out is 12:00 PM, while cabins have a 4:00 PM check-in and 11:00 AM check-out.

Contact Information

Address: 7000 Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542, USA

Phone: (707) 923-2777

Mobile Phone: +1 707-923-2777

Email: benbowkoa@benbowinn.com

Website: For more detailed information and reservations, visit the official KOA website for Benbow KOA Holiday or benbowinn.com/destinations/benbow-koa/.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians seeking a well-rounded and amenity-rich camping experience, Benbow KOA Holiday in Garberville is an exceptionally suitable choice. As locals, we often look for places that offer more than just a campsite – we want convenience, activities, and a comfortable base from which to explore our state's natural wonders. Benbow KOA delivers on all fronts, providing an array of features like a swimming pool, hot tub, laundry facilities, and even a golf course, which elevate the camping experience beyond the ordinary. Its strategic location directly off Highway 101 means easy access to the majestic Avenue of the Giants and the pristine Eel River, allowing for effortless day trips into the heart of the redwoods. While some past guests have noted minor issues with amenities or specific site conditions, the overall consensus highlights its value as a full-service resort. The availability of diverse accommodation options, from full hookup RV sites to comfortable cabins and tent spots, ensures it caters to various preferences, making it ideal for family vacations, group gatherings, or even a quick "decompress from camping" stop. The pet-friendly facilities further extend its appeal to California families who travel with their furry companions. Benbow KOA Holiday provides a comfortable, engaging, and conveniently located gateway to the stunning natural beauty of Northern California, making it a highly recommended destination for those who call California home.

Benbow KOA Holiday

7000 Benbow Dr, Garberville, CA 95542, USA