Southfork Campground

Star4.40
83 reviews

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

$26/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

21 campsites

Season

Open all year.

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Southfork Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites are first-come, first-served. No official fee structure provided beyond standard rates for Angeles National Forest.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 83 reviews

94 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hiking

"User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and tranquility of Southfork Campground while consistently pointing out issues with litter and noise from disruptive visitors. Many reviewers appreciated the access to trails and natural features like the creek and wading pools."

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Campground Map

Southfork Campground

34.3956, -117.8207

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Best Time to Camp at Southfork Campground

Perched at 4,500 feet, South Fork Campground enjoys a unique microclimate where mountain coolness meets desert warmth. This elevation provides relief from scorching summer temperatures while remaining accessible throughout the year, making it an ideal four-season destination for those seeking to escape the extremes of both valley heat and alpine snow.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Cooler than low desert but summers can be busy/noisy; good access to trails though.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Off-season and weekdays recommended; fall likely quieter with pleasant temps for hiking.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.8 / 5

Spring offers good hiking and creek features; generally favorable conditions and wildflower potential.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.5 / 5
Top 23% in CA

Open year-round with some snow-play opportunities at 4,500 ft, but not a developed winter resort.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: null. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open all year.
  • Current Alerts: null

About Southfork Campground

Tucked away in the dramatic landscape where the San Gabriel Mountains meet the Mojave Desert, South Fork Campground offers an enchanting escape at 4,500 feet elevation. This hidden gem features 21 generously-sized campsites that welcome adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, providing the perfect balance of accessibility and solitude. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend retreat or a basecamp for mountain exploration, South Fork delivers year-round tranquility amid some of Southern California's most striking scenery.
Southfork Campground is a rustic site catering to tent and small RV camping (up to 16 feet). It operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is open year-round.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
14:00
Check-out
11:00
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days maximum at camping locations in Angeles National Forest.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Southfork Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreation, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, snow play, and stargazing. The location provides access to trails leading to prominent natural landmarks such as the Devil's Punchbowl and Vincent's Gap. Wildlife viewing is an additional attraction, with opportunities to see species such as the Nelson's Big Horn Ram.
HikingHiking is a popular activity, with trails leading to destinations such as the Devil’s Punchbowl and Islip Saddle. Trails vary in difficulty and offer scenic views, seasonal waterfalls, and unique geological formations. User reviews highlight the proximity of the Manzanita Trail to the campground, with one reviewer recommending against the South Fork Trail due to its precarious paths along cliffs (review by Sarah).
FishingFishing is noted as an activity at the nearby creek. User Jason Milligan confirmed that fish were present in the creek, though they were not very large.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a key attraction, with opportunities to see Nelson's Big Horn Ram and other species.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

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No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Southfork Campground

Reviews

4.4
83 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Southfork Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and tranquility of Southfork Campground while consistently pointing out issues with litter and noise from disruptive visitors. Many reviewers appreciated the access to trails and natural features like the creek and wading pools.
Review Summaries
Based on 83 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the natural setting, with comments like 'hidden gem in the Mojave Desert' and 'plenty of walking, hiking, and exploring opportunities.' The creek was frequently mentioned as a highlight...
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Based on 83 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback centers on the poorly maintained restroom facilities, excessive litter, and disruptive behavior from other campers, including loud music and late-night partying. Specific complaints...
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Based on 83 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers suggested bringing extra trash bags, personal restroom supplies, and sage to repel bugs. They also recommended visiting during weekdays to avoid disruptive weekend crowds.
Based on 83 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summers can be busy and noisy, with complaints about loud music and parties. Weekdays and off-season visits are considered better for a peaceful experience.
Based on 83 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'After an evening around the fire, hike south to see seasonal waterfalls or spot a Nelson's Big Horn Ram!' (official source). 2. 'The restrooms are terrible. Maybe practice a leave-no-trace...
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Based on 83 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite #1 is highlighted as the best spot for its proximity to the Manzanita Trailhead (review by Sarah).
Based on 83 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Based on 83 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There were no reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 83 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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