Southfork Campground
4.4414 reviewsSouthfork Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites are first-come, first-served. No official fee structure provided beyond standard rates for Angeles National Forest.
About this campground
Tucked away in the dramatic landscape where the San Gabriel Mountains meet the Mojave Desert, South Fork Campground offers an enchanting escape at 4,500 feet elevation. This hidden gem features 21 generously-sized campsites that welcome adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, providing the perfect balance of accessibility and solitude. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or a basecamp for mountain exploration, South Fork delivers year-round tranquility amid some of Southern California's most striking scenery.
Southfork Campground is a rustic site catering to tent and small RV camping (up to 16 feet). It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is open year-round.
Historical SignificanceThis rugged corner of the San Gabriel Mountains has long served as a crossroads between mountain and desert ecosystems, creating a unique environment that has attracted wildlife, native peoples, and modern adventurers alike. The surrounding landscape tells the story of California's geological drama, where tectonic forces carved deep canyons and thrust ancient rocks skyward.
Weather and SeasonsPerched at 4,500 feet, South Fork Campground enjoys a unique microclimate where mountain coolness meets desert warmth. This elevation provides relief from scorching summer temperatures while remaining accessible throughout the year, making it an ideal four-season destination for those seeking to escape the extremes of both valley heat and alpine snow.
ElevationAt 4,500 feet, South Fork Campground sits in the sweet spot of mountain camping—high enough to escape the desert heat and enjoy crisp, star-filled nights, yet low enough to remain accessible when higher elevations are buried in snow. This perfect elevation offers visitors the best of both worlds: mountain majesty without the thin air, and desert vistas without the scorching temperatures.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic canyon walls plunge from the heights of Mt. Islip, creating a spectacular backdrop for your camping adventure. The campground's unique position offers glimpses of the iconic Vazquez Rocks rising from the Mojave Desert below, while Big Rock Creek tumbles through the landscape, creating seasonal waterfalls that transform the canyon into a photographer's paradise. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Desert Bighorn Sheep that call these rugged slopes home—these sure-footed locals might just make an appearance during your stay.
Geological RegionSouth Fork Campground sits at the fascinating intersection of two distinct geological provinces—the ancient, uplifted San Gabriel Mountains and the expansive Mojave Desert. This unique positioning showcases millions of years of geological history, where granite peaks meet sedimentary formations, creating a landscape of extraordinary diversity and beauty that tells the story of California's dynamic geological past.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious.
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy at campsites is not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites21 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00
Check-out
11:00
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days maximum at camping locations in Angeles National Forest.
Guests Allowed Per Site
8guests per site
Groups
No specific group camping facilities are described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed SeasonOpen all year.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not accepted for Southfork Campground.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Southfork Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, snow play, and stargazing. The location provides access to trails leading to prominent natural landmarks such as the Devil's Punchbowl and Vincent's Gap. Wildlife viewing is an additional attraction, with opportunities to see species such as the Nelson's Big Horn Ram.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, with trails leading to destinations such as the Devil’s Punchbowl and Islip Saddle. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views, seasonal waterfalls, and unique geological formations. User reviews highlight the proximity of the Manzanita Trail to the campground, with one reviewer recommending against the South Fork Trail due to its precarious paths along cliffs (review by Sarah).Fishing
Fishing is noted as an activity at the nearby creek. User Jason Milligan confirmed that fish were present in the creek, though they were not very large.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a key attraction, with opportunities to see Nelson's Big Horn Ram and other species.Winter Activities
The campground is noted for snow play during the winter months.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are 10 pm-6 am across Angeles.
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 18.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere are onsite dumpsters for trash disposal. However, user reviews highlight significant issues with litter, including garbage along the creek and shattered glass. One reviewer noted that the area is 'infested with ants and flies' due to trash (Nicole Ridgely).
Proximity to water featuresnull
Common complaintsnull
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsnull
nullNearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Southfork Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and tranquility of Southfork Campground while consistently pointing out issues with litter and noise from disruptive visitors. Many reviewers appreciated the access to trails and natural features like the creek and wading pools.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the natural setting, with comments like 'hidden gem in the Mojave Desert' and 'plenty of walking, hiking, and exploring opportunities.' The creek was frequently mentioned as a highlight...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback centers on the poorly maintained restroom facilities, excessive litter, and disruptive behavior from other campers, including loud music and late-night partying. Specific complaints...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers suggested bringing extra trash bags, personal restroom supplies, and sage to repel bugs. They also recommended visiting during weekdays to avoid disruptive weekend crowds.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summers can be busy and noisy, with complaints about loud music and parties. Weekdays and off-season visits are considered better for a peaceful experience.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'After an evening around the fire, hike south to see seasonal waterfalls or spot a Nelson's Big Horn Ram!' (official source). 2. 'The restrooms are terrible. Maybe practice a leave-no-trace...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #1 is highlighted as the best spot for its proximity to the Manzanita Trailhead (review by Sarah).
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There were no reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025