Humboldt Redwoods State Park provides multiple access points to the South Fork and main stem of the Eel River for fishing and boating, with winter, spring, and early summer being optimal for boating.

The park offers several river bar access areas (High Rock, Gould, Landsdale, and Maple Hills) open to licensed 4WD vehicles, plus day-use areas with river access such as Big Trees, Blue Slide, and Williams Grove that feature picnic tables and parking.

Catch-and-release fishing for salmon and steelhead is permitted on both river stems during fall and winter with a valid California fishing license; however, boaters should note that heavy rains can make the river unsafe for navigation.