Jones Fork Campground
4.4111 reviewsnull
Jones Fork Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
The campground charges $10 per night for a single campsite. There are no additional fees or reservation fees for this campground.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Jones Fork Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 thoughtfully spaced sites. This hidden gem beckons those seeking solitude, where the only sounds are rustling pine needles and gentle waves lapping against a pristine sand beach just steps from your tent. Despite its remote charm, you'll find essential comforts including fresh running water, well-maintained vault toilets, and secure bear boxes to protect your provisions. Here, rustic simplicity meets natural beauty, creating the perfect basecamp for adventurers who prefer their wilderness experiences authentic and uncrowded.
Jones Fork Campground is a small, primitive camping area designed primarily for tent and small vehicle camping. It offers limited facilities and is ideal for visitors seeking a remote and simple camping experience.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific stories of this land await discovery by curious visitors, the surrounding Eldorado National Forest holds centuries of heritage within its boundaries. These ancient forests have witnessed the footsteps of indigenous peoples, the dreams of Gold Rush prospectors, and generations of families creating outdoor memories beneath towering pines.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Sierra Nevada's dramatic seasonal personality, where golden summer days invite endless outdoor adventures under crystal-clear skies. As autumn arrives, crisp mornings give way to perfectly temperate afternoons ideal for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, though access may be limited during heavy snowfall. Spring brings renewal as wildflowers carpet the forest floor and snowmelt feeds the streams. Summer temperatures hover comfortably in the 70s and 80s, while winter can bring freezing conditions and the occasional storm that blankets the forest in pristine white.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable mountain elevation that offers relief from valley heat while remaining accessible to most visitors, the campground provides that perfect sweet spot where the air is crisp but not thin, and summer nights require just a light jacket around the campfire.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering mixed conifers create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The centerpiece of this woodland sanctuary is a crystalline lake that mirrors the sky and surrounding peaks, its waters so clear you can count pebbles on the bottom. Along the shoreline, lush riparian vegetation provides habitat for local wildlife and creates peaceful spots for reflection. Morning mist often drifts across the water, while evening light transforms the landscape into a golden paradise that photographers dream about.
Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape tells the story of millions of years of natural forces at work, where ancient geological processes have sculpted a terrain that perfectly balances rugged mountain beauty with accessible outdoor recreation opportunities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, but the campground is suitable for smaller setups. User reviews mention that larger RVs and trailers might face challenges fitting into most sites.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is small and has closely spaced campsites, which may limit privacy. However, Site #1 is mentioned as being more spacious and secluded.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 1 is recommended for larger vehicles due to its size, but campers should note that navigating the campground with large trailers or RVs may be challenging due to narrow roads and low-hanging trees.
Best CampsitesSites 8 and 9 are noted for having the best access to the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests per site are not specified.
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop layout with sites situated close to one another.
Open and Closed SeasonThis campground is open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates entirely on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyThe campground does not accept reservations. Therefore, cancellation policies do not apply.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jones Fork Campground provides access to a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and lake-related activities such as swimming. The proximity to hiking trails offers additional opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, and the area features trails that lead to waterfalls and scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground. Visitors have noted good fishing experiences at the nearby lake.Swimming
The lake provides a great setting for swimming. Some visitors have highlighted the scenic and clear waters.Boating
Boating is allowed on the lake, although details about the types of boats permitted are not specified.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, though specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Information on water sports beyond swimming and boating is not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be extinguished using water. Fire restrictions may apply during hot, dry weather conditions.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, posing a potential hazard if food is not stored securely. There are warnings about plague fleas on squirrels.
Active alertsNo current active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 datesYear-round operation with no specific peak season dates mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available on-site, but recycling is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near a small lake with a sandy beach that is accessible to campers.
Common complaintsReviews frequently mention poorly maintained vault toilets and lack of potable water. Some visitors noted rude behavior from campground rangers.
HostNo camp host is available at this campground.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsnull
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Jones Fork Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Jones Fork Campground receives mixed reviews. Some campers appreciate its secluded and quiet atmosphere, while others criticize the poor maintenance of facilities, especially the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlighted the beautiful lake with clear water, great fishing, and the campground's pet-friendly environment. One reviewer stated, "This place is absolutely beautiful. The lake is huge,...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaints were the poorly maintained vault toilets, lack of potable water at certain times, and warnings about plague-bearing fleas. One reviewer remarked, "The bathroom smelled so...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing your own water and considering sites #8 and #9 for the best lake access. Site #1 is recommended for its size and privacy.
Based on 11 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User experiences generally improve in off-peak seasons due to fewer visitors, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. Summer visits are more popular but come with challenges such as busy vault toilets.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "We had a wonderful time at Jones Fork Campground last year. It was quiet with just 10 camping spots and easy access to the lake." - Shelli Hughlett 2. "Bathrooms were horribly maintained. It's...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #1 is praised for its privacy and size, described as "all by itself and very big" with "good views". Sites #8 and #9 are noted as the best for lake access.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground lacks specific accessibility features. No complaints from users with disabilities were noted.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but visitors are advised to keep pets away from rodents due to a warning about plague-bearing fleas. "Great for dogs and kids," noted one reviewer.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025