Eel River NowRiver reports · places

South Fork Eel River · near Leggett

Smithe Redwoods river access

A small state reserve north of Leggett with parking, a picnic area, trails, and access to the South Fork for fishing and swimming.

Also known as: Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve

Selected place

Can I swim now?

Smithe Redwoods river accessSouth Fork Eel River

No recent algae test listed for this spot

This is not an all-clear. Check the current statewide reports map and signs at the site.

Site-specific result not listed in the current FHABS exportCalifornia HAB reports map ↗
Practical algae information

Harmful algal mats can occur in clear water and reports are not comprehensive. Avoid visible mats or discolored, stagnant water; keep children and pets away from affected water. Only testing can determine whether toxins are present.

California toxic algal mat guidance ↗

Weather

Today’s high: 101°F · Mostly SunnyNational Weather Service · Sep 9, 2026, 2:10 PM PDT

River reading

River level is steadySouth Fork near Miranda · observed Sep 9, 2026, 4:30 PM PDT
Measurement details

35.9 ft³/s flow · 6.22 ft gauge height

Flow measures how much water passes the gauge. Gauge height is measured from a fixed reference; it is not the depth at your swimming spot.

Access

Public access documentedUse the reserve parking area reached from Highway 101; do not use the neighboring private drive-through-tree parking.
Parking
Use the reserve parking area reached from Highway 101; do not use the neighboring private drive-through-tree parking.
Facilities
  • Parking
  • Picnic area
  • Hiking trails

Listed facilities come from the cited manager record. Check current restrictions and posted signs before use.

Directions to parking ↗Open name in Google Maps ↗
Sources and verification

Manager: California State Parks. Parking directions are shown only where the public entrance is documented.