South Fork (Ut)
3.9880 reviewsUT-39, Huntsville, UT 84317
South Fork (Ut)
$15.00 - $62.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$31.00
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
Standard sites cost $31.00 per night with capacity for 8 people and 1 vehicle; Double sites cost $62.00 per night for 16 people and 2 vehicles. Day use charges are $15.00, extra vehicles are $10.00 per vehicle per day. Firewood is available for $9.00 per bundle, paid on-site with cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the melodic waters of the South Fork Ogden River, South Fork Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to its tranquil mountain setting at 5,200 feet. Here, families gather for lazy summer afternoons spent tubing down gentle rapids, anglers cast lines into promising pools, and hikers set off on trails that wind through stands of ancient cottonwoods. The campground's thoughtfully designed layout includes 34 single-family sites and 8 spacious double-family sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables, fire rings for evening gatherings, and level cement pads that make setting up camp a breeze.
South Fork Campground accommodates various camping types, including tent and RV camping, with single and double-family sites available.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days at South Fork unfold with golden sunshine warming the valley, while evenings bring that perfect mountain coolness that makes campfire stories and stargazing irresistible. As autumn approaches, crisp air signals the changing seasons, and winter transforms the landscape into a snow-draped wonderland, when the campground rests beneath a peaceful blanket of white, accessible only to those seeking winter solitude.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet above sea level, South Fork Campground provides a refreshing mountain escape where temperatures run 10-15 degrees cooler than the valleys below. This elevation creates the perfect climate for comfortable camping, where you can enjoy warm days without the scorching heat and evenings cool enough to appreciate that extra layer and a crackling campfire.
Natural Features and SceneryA living gallery of nature surrounds South Fork Campground, where towering cottonwoods provide dappled shade and graceful willows dance along the riverbank. The South Fork Ogden River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters creating a soothing soundtrack for your stay. Keep your camera ready – majestic moose often emerge from the forest at dawn and dusk, while deer delicately pick their way through camp, reminding visitors that this mountain paradise is shared with its original inhabitants.
Geological RegionSouth Fork Campground sits in the heart of the stunning Ogden Valley, where the South Fork Ogden River has carved its course through mountainous terrain over millennia. This geological wonderland showcases the dramatic interplay between water and stone, with riverside corridors lined by flourishing cottonwoods and willows that thrive in the rich alluvial soils. The surrounding peaks and ridges tell the ancient story of the Wasatch Range, creating a dramatic backdrop for your outdoor adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available. Campsites vary in their suitability for people with disabilities, with one user review noting site 11 as challenging for accessibility and campsite setup.
Sites SizeSites include single and double-family configurations with cement site pads, picnic tables, and utility tables. Site configurations can accommodate both tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site, with some more secluded and others closer together. One reviewer mentioned, "The camp spot we stayed in was clean and had plenty of privacy," whereas others highlighted proximity to noisy neighbors.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for better views and cooler temperatures. Loop B is less crowded and quieter than Loop A.
Best CampsitesSite #34 offers privacy with surrounding trees and direct paths to the river. Site #10 provides excellent river access and shade from trees.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12 PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
- Two nights minimum stay on weekends
- three nights minimum on holiday weekends.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 8 people per single site
- 16 people per double site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are arranged in two loops, Loop A and Loop B. Loop A tends to be noisier and more crowded, while Loop B is quieter and has less activity.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to September 1 annually, with peak season lasting May 16 to September 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov online or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come-first-served sites available. Must arrive in person to claim; weekend and holiday availability fills quickly.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled or changed via Recreation.gov with fees: $10 fee for modifications and cancellations. Late cancellations (day before arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, tubing, hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. Swimming is available at nearby reservoirs. "Campers enjoy fishing and tubing on the South Fork," as stated by the authoritative source. Reviewer experiences include river tubing and star gazing.
Hiking
Several hiking trails begin in the area surrounding South Fork Campground. Reviewers appreciated the "nice little walk alongside the river," adding to the recreational charm.Fishing
Fishing is popular at South Fork Ogden River and nearby reservoirs such as Causey Reservoir. A reviewer described the river as "very aggressive right now" but suitable for fishing enthusiasts.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the vicinity of South Fork Campground. Causey Reservoir also offers biking opportunities.Wildlife viewing
The campground is known for occasional appearances by moose and deer along with birds and squirrels, as highlighted by reviewers. "Saw many pretty birds, lots of squirrels, and a deer," according to one user.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not explicitly mentioned but could be inferred based on regional climate.Water Sports
Tubing is popular along South Fork Ogden River, and nearby reservoirs support paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for $9.00 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and rattlesnakes. Food and trash must be secured in bear-proof containers. The river has fast currents, posing risks for unsupervised children.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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 include hospitals in Ogden (~20 miles) and ranger stations accessible by phone (Utah Recreation Company: 385-273-1100).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 to September 1
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are provided; campers are advised to pack out any waste. "This is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility; bring trash bags," as indicated in the rules.
Proximity to water featuresThe South Fork Ogden River runs alongside the campground, providing opportunities for fishing and tubing.
Common complaintsCommon issues include noise disturbances from nearby sites, lack of shade at some campsites, and limited maintenance of restrooms and fire pits.
HostThe campground host, Stew, is frequently praised for his helpfulness and friendliness in user reviews.
Campground Map
UT-39, Huntsville, UT 84317
Driving directionsSouth Fork is located approximately 7 miles east of Huntsville, Utah, on Highway 39. From I-15, take the 12th Street exit and continue through Ogden Canyon. Continue on Highway 39 toward Monte Cristo.
Access roads are gravel and may be susceptible to seasonal closures or conditions. Roads are suitable for passenger vehicles but may require caution during rain or snow.Nearby places
Huntsville (7 miles, 10-minute drive), Ogden (20 miles, 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Huntsville (~7 miles). Gas stations are also located about 10 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
80 reviews
South Fork (Ut) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for South Fork Campground are mixed, ranging from complaints about cleanliness, noise, and site proximity to praises for the natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and helpfulness of the camp host. Sentiments vary greatly depending on individual experiences and campsite locations.
Review Summaries
Based on 80 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, helpful camp hosts, great access to the river for tubing and fishing, and proximity to scenic areas like Pineview and Causey Reservoirs. "The camp host...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on poor site maintenance, noisy neighbors, proximity to bathrooms, and issues with the camp host. "The restrooms were disgusting," and "Other people's dogs off-leash came into our...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend choosing secluded sites for privacy, avoiding sites near bathrooms, and bringing necessities like trash bags and drinking water. Loop B is suggested as quieter and less crowded...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months see the campground filled to capacity, leading to noise and crowded conditions. Winter and shoulder seasons might offer quieter experiences but lack full amenities.
Based on 80 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms weren’t kept up well." "The hosts this year seemed lacking." "Camp host Stew is a great guy, so helpful and nice." "The vault toilets were clean and smell-free." "Saw many pretty birds,...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites like 10 and 34 are praised for proximity to the river and privacy, while others near bathrooms or in exposed areas receive negative feedback. "Site 11 was one of the most unfriendly sites for a...
Based on 80 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility varies by site. Site 11 was noted as having poor accessibility for trailers and people with disabilities, with obstacles like boulders and trees.
Based on 80 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but issues with off-leash dogs were reported. "Owners must control dogs by leash not to exceed six feet," according to campground rules.
Based on 80 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025