South Fork Campground
02 reviews.
South Fork Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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
Single Site: $5/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites ONLY. The discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder, not to any additional fee or campsite(s) occupied by members of the pass holder's party. Payment must be made using CASH or CHECK.
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering South Fork of Stony Creek, South Fork Campground beckons adventure seekers to the heart of Mendocino National Forest. This cherished outdoor haven welcomes off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, anglers, hunters, and trail riders to explore its rugged terrain. Whether you're carving through forest trails on your dirt bike, casting a line into the creek's cool waters, or settling in for a night under the stars, this fee-based campground delivers the authentic wilderness experience that creates lasting memories.
South Fork Campground accommodates a variety of camping experiences, including tent camping and OHV-focused camping. The site is noted for providing opportunities for OHV trail riding and camping.
Historical SignificanceFor generations, South Fork Campground has woven itself into the fabric of family traditions, becoming a sacred ground where memories are forged around crackling campfires and dusty trails. As one devoted visitor, David Mccluskey, fondly recalls, 'My dad and my whole family have camp and hunting trips that I will remember forever.' These heartfelt words echo the experiences of countless families who've made this forest retreat their annual pilgrimage, passing down outdoor traditions from parent to child.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with a gentle touch at South Fork, transforming the landscape into an outdoor paradise by mid-April when temperatures climb to a comfortable 77°F and crystal-clear skies dominate 90% of the time. These golden weeks of camping perfection stretch through the warmer months, offering ideal conditions for every outdoor pursuit. Winter visitors should come prepared for nature's cooler moods, as February temperatures can dip to a brisk 40°F accompanied by Pacific storms that refresh the forest but challenge fair-weather campers.
ElevationThe campground's position within the rolling topography of Mendocino National Forest provides varied terrain that challenges riders and rewards explorers with ever-changing vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryApproaching South Fork Campground reveals a breathtaking panorama that sets hearts racing before you even set up camp. As one enthusiastic rider, Robert, describes it: 'Great place to ride dirt bikes. Nice view of campgrounds coming in and leaving.' The surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering conifers and native hardwoods, while the South Fork of Stony Creek winds through the landscape, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your adventure.
Geological RegionSouth Fork Campground claims its place where the South Fork of Stony Creek has carved its patient path through the diverse ecosystems of Mendocino National Forest. This remarkable watershed showcases Northern California's geological diversity, where ancient creek beds meet forested ridgelines, creating a dynamic landscape that has attracted outdoor enthusiasts for decades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details are provided regarding accessibility features.
Sites SizeNo information regarding the specific sizes of campsites is provided.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information is provided on the privacy of campsites.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
11:00 a.m.
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No information is provided regarding group site accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformshttps://store.usgs.gov/recreational-passes
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be reservable. Walk-up availability not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyReservation fees may apply.
Activities you can enjoy
South Fork Campground offers a range of recreational opportunities, including off-highway vehicle (OHV) camping, OHV trail riding, and fishing in rivers or streams. Hunting may also be an activity here. However, potential users should note that the Grindstone OHV trail system might have damage from recent storms, including downed trees, which could impact trail usability.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the nearby rivers and streams, as stated in the facility description.Winter Activities
No information is provided about winter recreation opportunities.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports activities is included.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- null
- Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotable water is not available. Quiet hours are enforced.
Active alertsGrindstone OHV trail system may have damage on trails and downed trees.
Weather forecast
99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
null
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere is no information about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the South Fork of Stony Creek.
Common complaintsPotable water not available. Roads may require lightweight 4WD due to damage.
Hostnull
Campground Map
.
Driving directionsLocated 9.5 miles west of Stonyford on Road 18N03.
"From the east on M10: The slide above Fouts Springs has been temporarily repaired. It is passable with a lightweight 4wd vehicle, but could slide again after a heavy storm." Roads may require 4WD access due to temporary conditions.Nearby places
.
Nearby supplies
null
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
South Fork Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the South Fork Campground as a memorable location for family trips and recreational activities. Many reflect positively on the opportunities for dirt biking and the overall camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Several users praised the campground for its suitability for dirt biking and family bonding. One user mentioned, 'Great place to ride dirt bike,' while another fondly recalled, 'My dad and my whole...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No specific complaints were noted in the user reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should prepare to bring their own drinking water as potable water is not available at the campground. Those using the Grindstone OHV trail system should be prepared for possible trail damage...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends were noted in the reviews available.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great place to ride dirt bike.' (Robert, 2018-05-26)
2. 'My dad and my whole family have camp and hunting trips that I will remember forever.' (David Mccluskey, 2018-05-15)
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews are available.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews address accessibility features or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mention pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025