How much does camping cost at South Fork Campground?

Camping fees at South Fork Campground range from $15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is South Fork Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

South Fork Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors should arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at South Fork Campground before I book?

Yes! South Fork Campground has 21 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit South Fork Campground?

South Fork Campground is open The campground is most popular between May and September.. 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 Campground?

South Fork 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 Campground?

Fire policies at South Fork Campground: No specific fire policies are mentioned, but general rules apply.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does South Fork Campground have?

South Fork Campground has 13 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at South Fork Campground?

Pets are not allowed at South Fork 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 Campground?

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

What activities can I do at South Fork Campground?

Popular activities at South Fork Campground include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

South Fork Campground

3.57

7 reviews

Featured in:Fishing Camping Oregon Summer Camping Oregon Fall Camping Oregon +2 more

Quick Facts

4,400 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

May - September

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,400 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

13 campsites

Season

May - September

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

South Fork Campground

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The overnight fee for a single site is $15 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on single campsites occupied...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

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USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

South Fork Campground

44.4041, -118.3054

Nearby places

Unity, OR (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and basic camping supplies can be accessed in Unity, OR, approximately 7 miles away.

Driving directionsFrom Unity, Oregon travel west in town on Highway 26 to South Fork Burnt River Road (County Road 600); Turn left on the South Fork Burnt River Road and go about 7 miles to the Forest Boundary; The road becomes Forest Road 6005 at the Forest Boundary; Continue on Forest Road 6005 for about 0.5 miles to campground; Entrance is on left side of the road.

The road becomes gravel after 4.1 miles, which may present challenges for some vehicles. The road changes to Forest Road 6005 at the Forest Boundary.

Weather at South Fork Campground

Best Time to Camp at South Fork Campground

Summer brings daytime highs of 70–88°F and nights cooling into the 30s–50s. It's the driest, most reliable season for camping and fishing. Water levels stabilize, making streambank access easier. Mid-July through August sees the highest visitor numbers, so reserve early for one of the 13 sites. Snow arrives in colder months, transforming the landscape but limiting access.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open and most reliable season; stable water levels and best temps for camping/fishing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: The campground is most popular between May and September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: May - September

About South Fork Campground

South Fork Campground sits along the South Fork Burnt River in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest near Unity, Oregon, at 4,400 feet elevation. The campground has 13 primitive sites (tent and tent/trailer) with pull-through parking, vault toilets, and basic amenities. Sites run $15/night. It's a quiet spot for fishing and accessing nearby OHV trails.

South Fork Campground accommodates tent and trailer campers, with specific sites designated for tents only.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs of 70–88°F and nights cooling into the 30s–50s. It's the driest, most reliable season for camping and fishing. Water levels stabilize, making streambank access easier. Mid-July through August sees the highest visitor numbers, so reserve early for one of the 13 sites. Snow arrives in colder months, transforming the landscape but limiting access.

ElevationPerched at a refreshing 4,400 feet above sea level, South Fork Campground offers a natural air-conditioning system courtesy of Mother Nature. This elevated paradise provides welcome relief from summer heat, where cool mountain breezes whisper through ancient conifers and temperatures drop delightfully as evening approaches, creating perfect conditions for campfire gatherings and restful nights under star-studded skies.

Natural Features and SceneryPonderosa pines and Douglas firs shade the campground, with alders clustered near the creek. The South Fork Burnt River runs through the area, creating a riparian corridor where moisture supports thicker vegetation. Wild roses and columbine grow in the understory. Some sites sit adjacent to the creek. The dense shrub layer provides habitat but can make tent setup difficult in certain spots.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the diverse ecosystem of the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, where South Fork Campground showcases the region's remarkable riparian habitat. This ecological treasure trove thrives where water meets forest, creating a lush corridor along the South Fork Burnt River. Here, towering Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs dominate the canopy while moisture-loving alders cluster near the water's edge. The understory bursts with life, from dense shrub thickets to delicate wildflower meadows featuring native wild roses and elegant columbine, all contributing to this vibrant mountain ecosystem that supports an abundance of wildlife and endless photographic opportunities.

Scenic Views'The creek can be heard throughout' and several campsites are adjacent to the creek, offering scenic and auditory enjoyment. However, these sites have thick understory which may make pitching tents challenging.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging or other accommodations are available at South Fork Campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are indicated as being offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 days.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground runs along the South Fork Burnt River with 13 sites total. Parking aprons are grass, dirt, and gravel. Pull-throughs accommodate trailers. Privacy is fair. Dense vegetation creates some screening, but sites aren't fully isolated.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not supported; sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Visitors should arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.

AccessibilityThe vault toilets are wheelchair accessible, but additional accessibility details are not provided.

Site SizeStandard-sized parking aprons consisting of grass, dirt, and gravel.

PrivacyMost campsites have fair privacy with some sites adjacent to the creek, although a thick understory can make pitching tents challenging.

Total Campsites13 campsites

Recommended SitesSites adjacent to the creek offer both a scenic view and the sound of running water but may have challenges due to thick understory.

Amenities available

Potable water is not available at this site. Located along the South Fork of the Burnt River, the South Fork Campground offers 12 tent/trailer sites and 2 tent-only sites. Reconstructed in 2008, it now includes pull-through trailer parking areas under the cool pine and fir trees.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

South Fork Campground provides opportunities for a range of outdoor activities. Campers can enjoy hiking, fishing for rainbow trout in the South Fork Burnt River, hunting, and OHV trail riding, particularly on the nearby Blue Mountain OHV Trails.

Fishing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome campsites have thick understory that may pose challenges. Road access transitions to gravel, which may require vehicles with better traction.

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Vault toilets are offered instead.

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 PolicyNo specific fire policies are mentioned, but general rules apply.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesUnity, OR is the nearest population center for basic emergency services.

Trash & RecyclingThe campground operates on a 'pack it in, pack it out' principle. No dedicated trash or recycling facilities are available.

Water FeaturesThe South Fork Burnt River flows adjacent to the campground, enhancing the camping experience.

Cell CoverageInformation about cell phone service quality or availability is not provided.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.6

7 reviews

Mixed Reviews

South Fork Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for South Fork Campground highlight its serene location and suitability for a quiet getaway. However, there is limited feedback provided in the available user reviews.

Review Summaries

Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate the peaceful environment and the ability to engage in activities such as fishing and hiking. The pull-through trailer parking and proximity to OHV trails are also viewed positively.

Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

A commonly mentioned drawback is the lack of potable water and other amenities such as showers and flush toilets.

Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient water and being prepared for the 'pack it in, pack it out' policy.

Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most frequently used from late spring to early fall, aligning with the operational season. Seasonal weather conditions are generally favorable for camping, with mild temperatures...

Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

"My favorite spot to camp and get away." - Devin Smith

Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no reviews specifically addressing the accessibility features of the campground.

Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No details are included about experiences with pets at the campground.

Based on 7 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Rainbow trout anglers and Blue Mountain OHV riders will get the most out of this one. Pull-through parking handles trailers fine, the $15 fee is hard to argue with, and summer nights cool into the 30s. Bring all your own water.

Skip if

No potable water on-site means hauling everything in, and there are no showers, hookups, or dump station. Privacy is only fair, sites are first-come-first-served, and the thick understory near the creek can make tent pitching a real hassle.

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Campgrounds

Wallowa Whitman National Forest

South Fork Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about South Fork Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Located along the South Fork of the Burnt River, the South Fork Campground offers 12 tent/trailer sites and 2 tent-only sites. Reconstructed in 2008, it now includes pull-through trailer parking areas under the cool pine and fir trees. The campground is popular in the late spring through fall for fishing, hiking, hunting and OHV riding on the nearby <a href="http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/wallowa-whitman/recreation/ohv/?cid=stelprdb5292558">Blue Mountain OHV Trails</a>.</p>

About the campground

The elevation is 4,400 ft. The campground, pack it in, pack it out, stretches along the South Fork Burnt Creek through a riparian environment that includes Ponderosa pine, Wallowa-Whitman National Forest 408 Douglas fir, alder and lots of shrubs. Wild rose and columbine add color. Some campsites are adjacent to the creek with thick understory making pitching some tents a challenge. The creek can be heard throughout. Although understory along the creek is thick, most campsites have only fair privacy.

Seasons & access

Open May 15 through October 15.

RV information

The parking aprons are grass, dirt and gravel and all are about same size.

Directions

In Unity, OR, at intersection of US Rt. 26 and South Fork Rd. , turn onto South Fork Rd. and go 7.2 miles to campground on left. NOTE: South Fork Rd. becomes gravel in 4.1 miles.

National Forest: Whitman National Forest
Ranger District: Whitman
Elevation: 4400
Rate: $5per day
Maximum Stay: 14
Open Season: May – September