North Fork Campground (Or)
4.0513 reviewsHigh Cascades Ranger District, 47201 Highway 62, Prospect, OR, 97536, USA
North Fork Campground (Or)
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
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
A flat rate of $16.00 per night applies during the peak season (May 22, 2025 - October 04, 2025). Fees include one vehicle; additional vehicle fees may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away in the embrace of towering old-growth giants, North Fork Campground offers an intimate escape where ancient trees whisper stories of centuries past. This hidden gem provides a peaceful retreat just moments from the pristine waters of Fish Lake, creating the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude among nature's most majestic sentinels.
The North Fork Campground offers tent and small RV camping options with a rustic, first-come, first-served setup. Sites are basic, prioritizing a natural outdoor experience.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, campers wake to crisp mountain mornings that give way to sun-dappled afternoons perfect for exploration. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a quieter sanctuary, with winter bringing a blanket of snow that renders this peaceful haven accessible only to the most intrepid adventurers willing to brave the freezing temperatures and seasonal road closures.
ElevationElevation data not provided explicitly.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of ancient trees where moss-draped trunks have stood sentinel for generations, creating a verdant canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The campground's crown jewel lies in its proximity to the remarkable Fish Lake, a volcanic wonder sustained by an intricate network of over 45 underground streams that bubble up from deep volcanic chambers, creating crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding peaks and forests in perfect mirror-like clarity.
Geological RegionNestled within the diverse landscapes of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, North Fork sits at the intersection of ancient volcanic forces and timeless forest ecosystems. The area showcases nature's geological artistry, where underground volcanic streams have carved hidden pathways beneath the earth, feeding the spectacular Fish Lake while old-growth forests stand as living monuments to the region's rich volcanic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned. The campground terrain and facilities may pose challenges for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as small and more suited to tents or smaller vehicles like van RVs. Specific mentions include difficulty navigating with larger trailers.
Sites PrivacySites are noted for offering some privacy, with spacing sufficient to feel secluded from neighbors.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSmaller travel trailers (e.g., 21 ft) can navigate the campground roads. Sites near the creek are ideal for solitude.
Best CampsitesSite 9 is noted for being next to a creek and offering privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
For individual campsites, standard occupancy rules apply.
Groups
There is no specific mention of designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of nine sites laid out in a compact area, with road loops and pullouts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: May 22, 2025 - October 04, 2025 (peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov mobile app or scan-and-pay on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites at North Fork Campground are first-come, first-served under scan-and-pay rules. Availability may vary during peak seasons and weekends.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are subject to a $10 fee for individual campsites. Late cancellations (starting from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) forfeit the first night's fees. Scan and Pay reservations are non-refundable.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and non-motorized water sports. The proximity to Fish Lake makes it a prime location for nature-focused recreation.
Hiking
Multiple nearby trails include the Pacific Crest Trail, Sky Lakes Wilderness, Brown Mountain, Mount McCloughlin, and Fish Lake Trail. These trails cater to a variety of skill levels and provide scenic views.Fishing
Fish Lake, a few miles away, is a popular fishing spot supplied by over 45 underground volcanic streams. Fishing opportunities are highly regarded.Biking
The campground roads appear suitable for biking, as noted in one user review.Boating
Boating is supported at nearby Fish Lake, which has a boat launch and a 10 m.p.h. speed limit, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, although the area may be less accessible due to weather conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are available at Fish Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are restricted during fire bans. Additional firewood is available at nearby Fish Lake Resort.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the campground, requiring campers to store food securely. Heavy rapids in nearby creeks pose a drowning hazard for children.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.8 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
Closest emergency services are located in Prospect, OR, including a medical clinic and emergency response facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - October 04, 2025
Trash and recyclingInformation on trash and recycling facilities is not provided in the authoritative sources or reviews.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Fish Lake, which is fed by volcanic streams and supports fishing and kayaking.
Common complaintsMixed reviews highlight issues with outhouse cleanliness, pushy hosts, and campsite layout concerns.
HostReviews are mixed about hosts; some describe helpful hosts, while others note pushy behavior.
Campground Map
High Cascades Ranger District, 47201 Highway 62, Prospect, OR, 97536, USA
Driving directionsFrom Medford OR, take OR-140 (Lake of the Woods Hwy) about 28 miles and turn right on Forest Road 37. Continue 1 mile on Forest Road 37, campground is located on the right.
Accessible from paved highways (OR-140) with a short stretch on Forest Road 37. The road conditions are manageable for most vehicles, including smaller RVs and vans.Nearby places
Medford, OR (28 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Prospect, OR (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Fish Lake Resort (approximately 2 miles away) provides a cafe, small store, and firewood. Additional supplies may be accessible in Medford, OR.
Camper Reviews
4.1
13 reviews
North Fork Campground (Or) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's tranquil setting, proximity to hiking trails, and suitability for tent camping. Complaints often focus on the small site sizes and limited facilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's quiet atmosphere, scenic surroundings, and proximity to Fish Lake and hiking trails. Reviews like 'Nice small, quiet campground with pretty river walk'...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the small size of campsites, difficulties with overgrown or steep site terrain, and issues with the vault toilet's cleanliness.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper as it may run out. Avoid larger RVs due to tight roads and small campsites. Consider off-season visits for more availability.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and late summer appear popular for visits due to favorable weather for hiking and fishing. Fire restrictions and site availability can vary based on the season.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Good size lots quiet no road noises as rapids cover it, maybe more for tent as not much room to circulate in anything else then van RV.' - Daniel Fortier, 2023. 2. 'Nice small, quiet campground...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #9 by the creek receives positive remarks for its location. Site #7 is described as too steep for larger trailers, and site #2 has been criticized for being overgrown.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility, though the terrain and tight roads may limit usability for those with mobility challenges.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but there are no specific reviews discussing pet-related amenities or experiences.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025