South Fork Campground
4.7513 reviewsSouth Fork Campground, Lincoln National Forest, Smokey Bear Ranger District, New Mexico
South Fork Campground
$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 night for a standard site. Additional vehicle fee is $5 per night.
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About this campground
Nestled within the enchanting Smokey Bear Ranger District of Lincoln National Forest, South Fork Campground offers an unforgettable escape into New Mexico's mountain wilderness. Here, 53 thoughtfully placed campsites cascade down a scenic mountainside, with some hugging the babbling waters of the South Fork Rio Bonito. Whether you're arriving with an RV or pitching a tent beneath the stars, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned to explore the nearby Bonito Lake and venture into the pristine White Mountain Wilderness. This resilient landscape tells a story of renewal—rising from the ashes of the 2012 Little Bear Fire, the campground has blossomed into a testament to nature's remarkable ability to heal and thrive.
South Fork Campground accommodates a mix of tent and RV camping. It includes walk-in tent sites alongside standard campsites. RV sites are limited and do not offer water, sewer, or electricity hookups.
Historical SignificanceSouth Fork Campground stands as a living monument to resilience and renewal. When the Little Bear Fire swept through these mountains in 2012, it left its mark on the landscape and the hearts of those who cherished this special place. Today, visitors witness an inspiring transformation—where fire once raged, new growth now flourishes. The visible remnants of charred trees serve not as scars, but as powerful reminders of nature's cycles of destruction and rebirth. The ongoing restoration efforts have carefully nurtured this beloved campground back to life, creating a unique opportunity to experience a forest in active regeneration.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full symphony of mountain seasons at South Fork, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Summer days invite you to bask in comfortable mid-70s temperatures—perfect for hiking and lakeside adventures. As autumn arrives, the air turns crisp and the forest transforms into a tapestry of changing colors. Winter brings a magical quietude, with temperatures dipping into the 20s and the possibility of snow dusting the pines. Spring emerges with wildflowers and renewed energy, though mountain weather can surprise you with its delightful unpredictability throughout the shoulder seasons.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,500 feet above sea level, South Fork Campground offers a true high-country experience. This elevation places you in the sweet spot of New Mexico's mountain ecosystem, where the air is refreshingly crisp and the sky seems impossibly close. While the thinner atmosphere at this altitude creates spectacular stargazing opportunities and cooler temperatures, visitors should take time to acclimate—your body may need a day or two to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels, especially if you're coming from lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 7,500 feet, South Fork Campground immerses you in a diverse mountain ecosystem where towering ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral overhead. Beneath their protective canopy, a soft carpet of native grasses sways in the mountain breeze. The melodic sounds of mountain streams provide a constant soundtrack, their crystal-clear waters tumbling over ancient rocks as they make their way through the canyon. From various vantage points throughout the campground, sweeping vistas reveal the raw beauty of the surrounding wilderness—a patchwork of forest, meadow, and distant peaks that seems to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.
Geological RegionSouth Fork Campground occupies a remarkable position within the greater Lincoln National Forest, serving as your gateway to the untamed White Mountain Wilderness. This unique geological setting showcases the best of New Mexico's mountain country—where ancient ponderosa pine forests mingle with open meadows carpeted in native grasses. Mountain streams have carved their paths through this landscape over millennia, creating the perfect blend of forest shelter and open sky. The varied terrain offers endless opportunities for exploration, from gentle streamside strolls to challenging wilderness adventures, all within this spectacular corner of the American Southwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available. No additional accessibility features are described.
Sites SizeUser reviews highlight the size of campsites as being large and spacious, allowing for privacy and comfort.
Sites PrivacySites are described as spacious and not densely packed, contributing to a private and peaceful experience.
Total Campsites53 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites near the South Fork of the Rio Bonito for a more secluded and scenic experience. Reviewers have noted that tent sites are distributed along the stream.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stay limit: 14 days.
Groups
No specific group camping facilities or site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes a mix of paved and gravel parking aprons. Sites are scattered along a mountainside and near the South Fork of the Rio Bonito.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 through September 15.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; reservations are not accepted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
South Fork Campground offers a limited range of activities mostly centered around hiking and picnicking. The South Fork Trail #19 provides access to hiking and backpacking opportunities, with the trail transitioning from moderate to difficult portions. Bonito Lake nearby offers fishing for trout. Wildlife viewing is also a highlight, with deer, coyotes, and elk frequently encountered, as mentioned in user reviews.
Hiking
South Fork Trail #19 is a 6-mile trail providing access to Trails #25 and #33 and the White Mountain Wilderness. The trail starts as a moderately easy hike and becomes more challenging at higher elevations.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brook trout in the South Fork and other trout species in nearby Bonito Lake.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings include deer, coyotes, and bull elk, as noted in user reviews. Campers may benefit from observing animals at dawn and dusk.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports, including kayaking and rafting, are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but regulations may vary based on seasonal conditions and fire restrictions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM (enforced).
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring proper food storage to avoid attracting wildlife. The area has mixed terrain, and the aftermath of the 2012 Little Bear Fire may still pose some hazards.
Active alertsThe campground is currently closed. Visitors should verify status on the official website before planning a trip.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
Nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are located in Ruidoso, NM, approximately 9 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available on-site for trash disposal. No mention of specific recycling facilities or programs.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Fork of the Rio Bonito and near Bonito Lake.
Common complaintsSome users have reported noise disturbances due to other campers not respecting quiet hours. Reviews mention that facilities are clean and well-maintained but highlight the need for better enforcement of rules.
HostCamp hosts have been described as friendly and helpful in multiple reviews.
Campground Map
South Fork Campground, Lincoln National Forest, Smokey Bear Ranger District, New Mexico
Driving directionsFollow NM 48, 9 miles north from Ruidoso; turn west (left) and follow NM 37 for 1.5 miles. Turn southwest (left) on Forest Road 107 (County Road C-009), continue for 5 miles. Pass Bonito Lake, turn left continuing straight for about 1 mile.
Accessible via paved and gravel roads. Directions indicate mixed road surfaces, including Forest Road 107 and County Road C-009.Nearby places
Ruidoso, NM (approximately 9 miles, around 15 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and camping essentials, can be found in Ruidoso, NM, approximately 9 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
13 reviews
South Fork Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for South Fork Campground are predominantly positive, highlighting clean facilities, spacious sites, and wildlife encounters. However, some users have reported issues with noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes clean restrooms, spacious campsites, and scenic views. Wildlife such as deer and elk are commonly observed, contributing to the natural appeal.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some negative reviews mention noise disturbances, particularly from large groups not adhering to quiet hours. A review calls for better enforcement of quiet time policies.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring drinking water due to the lack of potable water. Practicing safe food storage is critical in bear country. Early booking is recommended during peak seasons.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground receives favorable reviews during summer and fall for its clean facilities and wildlife viewing opportunities. Noise complaints appear to be less frequent in off-peak seasons.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground and clean restrooms. However, HORRIBLE experience had a crew of 20 plus show up with over 6 cars stacked into one campsite around 9pm and partied ALL night long.' - Kim...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites with scenic views and proximity to water are highly recommended in user reviews, but exact site numbers are not mentioned.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly toilets are available, and no additional accessibility complaints or praises are noted.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information on pet policies or experiences is provided.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025