South Fork Campground & Trailhead
4.827 reviewsSouth Fork Campground & Trailhead
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
$20 per day
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Colorado's high country, this charming mountain retreat has become a beloved basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness experiences. With both standard and overflow sites available throughout the season, adventurers can cast their lines into pristine waters, explore miles of scenic trails on foot or horseback, and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of the Rocky Mountains.
South Fork Campground caters to campers seeking a wilderness experience. It provides combined sites for tent and RV camping, equestrian camping facilities, and overflow sites.
Historical SignificanceThis well-loved campground has served generations of families and outdoor enthusiasts as a gateway to the spectacular Flat Tops Wilderness, one of Colorado's most pristine and historically significant wilderness areas.
Weather and SeasonsAt 8,000 feet elevation, expect crisp mountain air and refreshing temperatures throughout the camping season. Summer days bring warm sunshine perfect for outdoor activities, while evenings cool down considerably, creating ideal conditions for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies.
ElevationPerched at 8,000 feet above sea level, this high-altitude haven offers cooler temperatures, thinner air that takes some adjustment, and breathtaking mountain vistas that make every breath worth taking.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce trees create a natural cathedral above each campsite, while a lush understory of native plants ensures exceptional privacy between neighbors. The melodic sounds of the South Fork of the White River provide a soothing soundtrack, with several coveted riverside sites offering direct access to the water's edge and world-class trout fishing.
Geological RegionSituated along the banks of the South Fork of the White River, this campground serves as your personal gateway to the majestic Flat Tops Wilderness. Dense spruce forests and thriving understory vegetation create an intimate alpine environment where the ancient geological wonders of Colorado's distinctive flat-topped mountains meet pristine river valleys.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are wheelchair friendly.
Sites SizeThe parking aprons are gravel and grass. No specific measurements for site size are provided.
Sites Privacy"The understory is heavy providing privacy between camp sites."
Total Campsites15 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
10 days
Groups
No group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 18 to October 22.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo reservations, walk-up only.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
South Fork Campground offers recreational activities related to its wilderness location. Campers have access to fishing for Rainbow and Brook trout in the South Fork of the White River, hiking trails leading into the Flat Tops Wilderness, and horseback riding. The Spring Cave Trail, a shorter hike with inclines leading to a cave, is particularly noted for its scenic value.
Hiking
Hiking options include South Fork Trail #1827 (16.5 miles), Spring Cave Trail #1834 (0.5 miles), and Cliff Lake Trail #1831 (3 miles). User reviews mention that these trails offer beautiful scenery and wildlife, with one reviewer highlighting elk grazing nearby.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available for Rainbow and Brook trout in the South Fork of the White River.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible, as user reviews mention sightings of elk grazing and other wildlife nearby.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors to Spring Cave must follow specific decontamination procedures and obtain a free permit to prevent the spread of White Nose Syndrome in bats. This educational requirement highlights the importance of preserving natural habitats.Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No specific water sports are provided, other than fishing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 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
Emergency services are not specified.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information available about trash or recycling facilities at South Fork Campground.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe South Fork Campground is located 29 miles east of Meeker, CO. From Meeker, take Colorado Highway 13 east for 1 mile, then turn right (east) on Rio Blanco County Road 8 and follow this for 18 miles. Turn south and Rio Blanco County Road 10 for 2 miles, jog north .25 miles, then continue east for 10 miles to the campground. Horse trailer parking is available to the east just after entering the campground.
"County Rt. 10 is a wide, single lane, dirt road." Seasonal accessibility is not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Meeker, CO (29 miles away)
Nearby supplies
RV waste station with potable water available for a fee at City Park in Meeker, CO.
Camper Reviews
4.8
7 reviews
South Fork Campground & Trailhead is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's scenic location, accessibility to hiking trails, and clean facilities. The trails leading to Spring Cave and along the White River are particularly praised. Visitors also appreciate the privacy offered by the campground's heavy understory.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's cleanliness, proximity to scenic trails, and peaceful environment. Many reviewers describe the area as beautiful, serene, and a great basecamp for hikes.
Based on 7 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some user complaints include the lack of established fire pits during fire bans and the absence of potable water.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own potable water and prepare for fire bans affecting established fire pits. The campground is best to visit from late spring to early fall.
Based on 7 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from May 18 through October 22. Reviews suggest that late spring to early fall offers the best experience due to favorable weather conditions and trail accessibility.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Amazing beautiful peaceful serene couldn't ask for a better campground bathrooms clean just had a great time" - Carla Anderson. "Great basecamp for some beautiful hikes!" - Trevor N. "Very beautiful...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site number reviews are mentioned, but some sites are noted to be adjacent to the river.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, and the campground is described as being surrounded by a heavy understory providing privacy.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or features are mentioned.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025