While the world flocks to the iconic Chocolate Hills, a quiet, atmospheric revolution is taking place in the municipality of Ubay, where the deep blue waters of Benliw Dam are drawing a new generation of nature-loving campers. Also known as the Benliw Peoples Nature Park, this sprawling irrigation reservoir—officially inaugurated in 2021—has rapidly transformed from a purely agricultural project into one of the most Instagrammable, budget-friendly outdoor destinations in Northern Bohol. With its striking contrast between royal blue reservoir waters and the surrounding rolling green hills, the site offers a rare, tranquil alternative to the province’s bustling coastal tourist traps, providing a space where campers can reconnect with nature in its most authentic, primitive form.
Lakeside Stargazing and Rolling Hill Landscapes
The park’s primary draw is its "old-school" camping experience, which invites visitors to pitch their tents right on the open grassy plains that line the expansive reservoir. The site is a favorite for landscape photographers who visit during the golden hour, as the royal blue hue of the water provides a vivid backdrop against the emerald-toned slopes of the Ubay hills, which echo the famous geometry of the Chocolate Hills themselves. At night, the absence of heavy artificial light makes it a premier destination for amateur astronomers and campers looking to enjoy crystal-clear, starlit skies by a small, controlled bonfire. Visitors can also negotiate with local boatmen—who often cross the reservoir to tend to their farms—for a serene, scenic tour of the reservoir, adding a layer of local immersion to the already peaceful atmosphere.
Navigating Primitive Logistics and Accessibility
Because the site is primarily managed as a functional irrigation resource for local farmers, it remains an intentionally primitive experience, meaning visitors should arrive fully prepared for an "off-the-grid" stay. There are no formal shower blocks or luxury amenities on the park grounds; however, local residents are often welcoming, and many travelers note that they can pay a small, modest fee to use the toilets at nearby residential houses. While a few local vendors occasionally appear near the entrance to sell light snacks and refreshments, campers are strongly advised to bring their own supplies, drinking water, and cooking equipment. The final approach to the dam features unpaved, occasionally rough terrain that is manageable for high-clearance vehicles and motorcycles, though travelers should use extra caution during the wet season when the path can become soft and slick.
The Mandate of Leave No Trace Stewardship
As an active irrigation reservoir that supports the livelihoods of over 600 local farmers across the barangays of Benliw, Emelda, Cagting, and Sinandigan, the site’s health is a matter of community pride. The local government and neighborhood associations enforce a strict "Leave No Trace" policy, and every camper is ethically obligated to pack out every piece of trash they generate during their visit. By keeping the grassy plains and water banks free of plastic and food waste, you ensure that this nature park remains a clean, functional resource for the town and a beautiful sanctuary for future visitors. Whether you are a solo backpacker chasing the morning fog or a family planning a budget-friendly weekend picnic, Benliw Dam stands as a testament to Bohol’s hidden, quiet natural beauty.
