South Fork Camping And Day Use Area
03 reviewsnull
South Fork Camping And Day Use Area
$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
$10 per vehicle, no other fees mentioned.
About this campground
Discover the tranquil beauty of South Fork Camping and Day Use Area, where pristine rivers meet and outdoor adventures begin. This dispersed camping haven welcomes both tent campers and small trailer enthusiasts with two distinctive camping experiences. Choose the secluded Upper South Fork Camp, where you'll wake to the gentle sounds of the South Fork Chetco River, or settle into Lower South Fork Camp, where two rivers converge and endless exploration awaits at your doorstep.
The South Fork Camping and Day Use Area is a dispersed campsite with options for tent and small trailer camping. It offers both secluded and more open camping experiences alongside the river.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of this riverside paradise. Winter brings crisp, cold days punctuated by Pacific Northwest rains that feed the rushing rivers below. As spring emerges, the landscape awakens with warmer temperatures and increasingly comfortable conditions. Summer rewards patient visitors with sun-drenched days, crystal-clear skies, and minimal precipitation—perfect for river adventures and lazy afternoons by the water.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and ScenerySet at the spectacular confluence where the South Fork Chetco River meets the main stem of the Wild and Scenic Chetco River, this campground offers front-row seats to nature's water symphony. Summer transforms these waterways into crystal-clear swimming holes that sparkle like liquid glass. Wild berry bushes dot the riverbanks, offering sweet treats for observant foragers and creating a tapestry of colors throughout the growing season.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, South Fork sits at a remarkable geological crossroads where the South Fork Chetco River joins forces with the main stem of the federally designated Wild and Scenic Chetco River. This confluence creates a dynamic aquatic ecosystem surrounded by the ancient forests and rugged terrain that define Oregon's spectacular southwestern wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described for this campground.
Sites SizeSites are dispersed and suitable for tents and small trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe Upper South Fork Camp offers a more secluded location, while the Lower South Fork Camp provides a larger area with access to both the South Fork and main stem of the river.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesReviews recommend camping near the water for better access and seclusion.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest camping near the water is a favorite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay: 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No group camping facilities are described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutDispersed camping, no formal layout.
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at the South Fork Camping and Day Use Area include swimming, fishing, hiking, road cycling, OHV road riding, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and sledding/tubing in winter. The campground is situated in a scenic river area, providing direct access to water-based activities.
Hiking
Day hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding area.Fishing
Fishing in the river is mentioned as an activity. Specific details about the types of fish or fishing quality are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is described as one of the key attractions of the site, particularly for those with young children. Campers have direct access to the river.Biking
Road cycling is mentioned as an available activity.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed as an opportunity, but specific species or recommended viewing areas are not detailed.Winter Activities
Sledding and tubing in winter are mentioned as activities.Water Sports
Swimming is the primary water-based activity mentioned. Boating is also referenced in user reviews, though details are sparse.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in developed fire pits.
- Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of yellow jackets due to surrounding berry bushes as noted in user reviews.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 31%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.1 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage disposal available. Campers are required to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresAt the confluence of South Fork Chetco River and the Wild and Scenic Chetco River, with direct access to the water.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight yellow jackets in the area due to berry bushes.
HostNo campground host available.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Brookings, Oregon, turn off US Highway 101 onto the North Bank Chetco River Road (County Road 784). This becomes Forest Road 1376. South Fork Camps are approximately 8 miles from the Forest boundary on Forest Road 1376.
The road leading to the campground transitions from County Road 784 to Forest Road 1376, likely unpaved in sections. No specific challenges mentioned but implied standard forest road conditions.Nearby places
Brookings, Oregon (exact distance not provided but implied proximity due to directions).
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
South Fork Camping And Day Use Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Campers generally praise the South Fork Camping and Day Use Area for its serene environment, scenic location by the river, and suitability for swimming and family time. The absence of crowds and the option to camp near the water are frequently highlighted.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the quiet setting, access to the river for swimming and boating, and the ability to camp close to the water. One user noted it as their favorite campground on the Chetco River.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Presence of yellow jackets near berry bushes is a concern raised in user reviews. The lack of facilities such as picnic tables and fire pits might also be a limitation for some campers.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should prepare for a dispersed camping experience by bringing their own water, trash bags, and other necessary supplies. Fire safety regulations should be followed, as campfires are only...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is particularly attractive during the summer due to its suitability for swimming and water-related activities. However, winter sports such as sledding and tubing are also mentioned as...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "My favorite on the Chetco. Worth going a bit further for a quieter campground. Full access to river for swimming and boating and can even camp right near the water. Watch out for yellow jackets...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The Upper South Fork Camp is noted for its seclusion, while the Lower South Fork Camp is highlighted for its larger area and easier access to the river.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility feedback has been provided in user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets must be leashed, as per the campground's rules. No additional user feedback on pet experiences is available.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025