How much does camping cost at South Fork Family Campground?

Camping fees at South Fork Family Campground range from $23-$31/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

What is the best time to visit South Fork Family Campground?

South Fork Family Campground is open May 2 through September 27, 2025.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at South Fork Family Campground?

South Fork Family Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at South Fork Family Campground?

Fire policies at South Fork Family Campground: Fire pits are available at each site, but a fire permit is required.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does South Fork Family Campground have?

South Fork Family Campground has 28 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at South Fork Family Campground?

Pets are not allowed at South Fork Family Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at South Fork Family Campground?

South Fork Family Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at South Fork Family Campground?

Popular activities at South Fork Family Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

South Fork Family Campground

Q: Is South Fork Family Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

South Fork Family Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are first-come, first-served, with no reservations accepted. Early arrival recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

4.44

71 reviews

Highway 38 Fawnskin, CA 92333

Featured in:Spring Camping California

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$23 - $31/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$23 - $31/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability

Get Directions

South Fork Family Campground

$23.00 - $31.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single site fees range from $23 per day, increasing to $31 on holidays. Camping fees include entry for one vehicle, with an extra vehicle fee of $8...

Standard Site Fee$29.00

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USFS

Provider

(909) 382-2790

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Highway 38 Fawnskin, CA 92333

South Fork Family Campground

Highway 38 Fawnskin, CA 92333

Nearby places

Big Bear City: ~17.7 miles (~30 minutes), Angelus Oaks: ~24 miles (~40 minutes), Fawnskin: ~23 miles (~35 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Limited groceries are available at Angelus Oaks, west of the campground on State Route 38. Additional supplies might require a trip to nearby cities like Big Bear City. Firewood is available at the campground for a fee.

Driving directionsFrom the Discovery Center take SR Hwy 38 towards Redlands for 23 miles and turn left into the campground. From the Mill Creek Work Center take SR Hwy 38 towards Big Bear for 21.6 miles and turn right into the campground. Additionally, from Big Bear City, CA, at the intersection of Greenspot Rd. and Big Bear Blvd., take Greenspot Rd. (State Rt. 38) south 17.7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.

The campground is accessible via State Route 38 and involves paved roads. RV parking aprons are paved, but the site overall is best suited for tents or smaller RVs. Seasonal closures and flooding may impact access.

Weather at South Fork Family Campground

Current alert: The campground is closed for 2025 due to maintenance issues, including past flooding.

Best Time to Camp at South Fork Family Campground

Summer brings the most reliable conditions at this elevation. Daytime temperatures run mid-60s to mid-80s°F with nights dropping into the 40s and 50s. Trails are fully accessible, river flows are lower and clearer, and all facilities stay open. Weekends fill up fast, especially holiday weekends. Fall nights turn cold quickly once the sun goes down.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers most reliable conditions; days mid-60s to mid-80s, nights cooler at elevation.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 2 through September 27, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from May 2 through September 27, 2025.

About South Fork Family Campground

South Fork Family Campground sits at 6,400 feet in San Bernardino National Forest, offering 28 sites along the Santa Ana River. The campground runs $23-$31 per night and accommodates tents and smaller RVs, though there's no potable water on-site. Sites are well-shaded and less cramped than busier area campgrounds, making this a good option for families who don't mind hauling their own water.

South Fork Family Campground caters to tent campers and small RVs. The campground offers a mix of standard and walk-in tent sites, as well as combined sites for tents and smaller vehicles.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable conditions at this elevation. Daytime temperatures run mid-60s to mid-80s°F with nights dropping into the 40s and 50s. Trails are fully accessible, river flows are lower and clearer, and all facilities stay open. Weekends fill up fast, especially holiday weekends. Fall nights turn cold quickly once the sun goes down.

ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet where the air is pure and pine-scented, South Fork occupies that sweet spot of mountain elevation where summer heat gives way to natural air conditioning. This lofty position above sea level delivers a refreshing escape from valley temperatures, while the surrounding forest creates a living cathedral of tranquility. Here, the thin mountain air seems to carry worries away on the breeze, leaving only peace and the promise of adventure.

Natural Features and SceneryA mixed conifer forest of cedars, pines, and firs creates heavy shade across the campground. The Santa Ana River runs alongside the sites, with at least one location featuring a tributary that trickles through camp. Some sites have mountain views, while others sit closer to the water in more enclosed forest settings. Past fires and flooding have left visible marks on the landscape, though the forest canopy remains intact.

Geological RegionSouth Fork sits jewel-like within the greater tapestry of San Bernardino National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a pine and fir wonderland between 6,400 and 6,500 feet elevation. The Santa Ana River has carved its patient path through this mountain realm, creating a riparian corridor that supports a magnificent mixed conifer forest. Majestic cedars stand sentinel alongside stately pines and graceful firs, their combined canopy offering blessed shade and that distinctive mountain forest perfume that makes every breath feel like meditation.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites have views of mountains or overlook the Santa Ana River. The overall scenery is described as serene and beautiful.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style accommodations are available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no cultural or educational programs offered on-site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in at 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 days per reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 persons per site.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground follows a long loop along the Santa Ana River, with a separate tail section for walk-in tent sites. Parking spots are small, better suited to tents or compact RVs than large rigs.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available; sites are first-come, first-served.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served, with no reservations accepted. Early arrival recommended, especially during weekends and holidays.

Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are accepted; first-come, first-served policy applies.

AccessibilityThere is no clear mention of specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeSites can accommodate up to 8 people and 1 vehicle, with an option for a second vehicle for an additional fee. Parking spots are generally small, suitable for tents or smaller RVs.

PrivacySites are well shaded by trees, offering a good amount of privacy. One reviewer noted, 'The sites aren't cramped together like some of the busier grounds.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites near the creek for a peaceful atmosphere and access to water. Some users recommend arriving early to secure shaded and private spots.

Best CampsitesSites near the creek and in heavily shaded areas get recommended most often. One site has a tributary running through it, which works well for hammock setups.

Amenities available

South Fork Family Campground is located in a pine/fir forest at an elevation of 6,400 feet, near the Santa Ana River. The campground has 28 sites, accommodating up to 8 people per site. It operates on a first-come, first-serve basis and is open seasonally, typically from May to September. It offers basic amenities, including picnic tables and fire pits at each site, but lacks potable water and restrooms. Vault toilets are available, but there are no showers, flush toilets, or a dump station.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Santa Ana River Trail and Lost Creek Trail provide opportunities for hiking, while the nearby Santa Ana River offers fishing for trout. The area is well-suited for nature enthusiasts and families looking for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country, and campers are advised to practice safe food storage techniques. Seasonal flooding may also be a concern.

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

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground has vault toilets, which are described as 'stinky honey holes' in some reviews, though others mention they were clean during their stay.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available at each site, but a fire permit is required.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Quiet time is enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesThe Mountaintop Ranger District and Discovery Center at 40971 North Shore Drive is approximately 23 miles away. Emergency services such as hospitals or police stations are located in nearby cities like Big Bear City.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground does not provide specific information about trash and recycling facilities. Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles.

Water FeaturesThe Santa Ana River runs along the campground, with creeks passing through. Some sites are near these water features.

Camp HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful. However, some reviews indicate dissatisfaction with management during busy periods.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

71 reviews

Recommended

South Fork Family Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for South Fork Family Campground are generally positive, highlighting its peaceful ambiance, scenic surroundings, and proximity to hiking trails. However, the lack of potable water and restrooms are common complaints. The campground is praised for its simplicity, making it ideal for tent campers and small RVs.

Review Summaries

Based on 71 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the scenic beauty, ample shade provided by trees, and access to hiking trails. 'It has pit toilets, but no running water. Past fires and flooding have wreaked some havoc on it, but...

Based on 71 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common issues raised include the lack of potable water, the unpleasant odor of vault toilets, and the occasional overcrowding on weekends. A reviewer mentioned, 'Bathrooms were clean, but...

Based on 71 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews mentioned that some sites have better access to the creek and more shade than others. A tiny tributary runs through one campsite, making it a favorite for campers with hammocks.

Based on 71 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water supply and arriving early to secure a spot. 'Bring gallons to fill, as water is very limited,' one user advised.

Based on 71 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally from May to September. Summer and fall are the most popular times, with campers enjoying the cooler mountain temperatures. Some noted that weekends can be busy,...

Based on 71 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'One of the camp spots has a tiny tributary trickling through it. I like to hang my hammock over!' 2. 'Bathrooms & water with a camp host, $25/night.' 3. 'The sites aren't cramped together like...

Based on 71 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific mentions of accessibility features in the reviews.

Based on 71 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet-related reviews are not explicitly available, but one user mentioned their dog enjoying hikes and water play near the river.

Based on 71 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Tent campers who can wait until 2026 should bookmark this: shaded riverside sites along the Santa Ana River at 6,400 ft, trout fishing steps from camp, and access to the 36-mile Santa Ana River Trail, all for $23/night with real site privacy.

Skip if

Anyone planning a 2025 trip needs to look elsewhere. Even in a normal year, no potable water on-site means hauling your own supply, vault toilet smell draws consistent complaints, and first-come-first-served means holiday weekends are a gamble.

Nearby Campgrounds

SAN BERNARDINO HWY 38, ANGELUS OAKS, CA 92305, USA

Lobo Group sits in the mid-elevation forest of San Bernardino National Forest near Angelus Oaks, operated by California Land Management as a dedicated group camping facility. This very small site offers flush toilets and potable water in a mountain setting where summer temperatures stay cool, with flat terrain that makes gear unloading straightforward. Visitors use the area for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing during the seasonal operating window.

South Fork Family Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to South Fork Family Campground

Campground Map

Weather at South Fork Family Campground

Best Time to Camp at South Fork Family Campground

Planning Tips

About South Fork Family Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to South Fork Family Campground

Best Time to Camp at South Fork Family Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews