Southfork Campground

This campground not regularly maintained. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.

General Camping Info: Find helpful guidance and tips for an enjoyable trip to the forest!

Know Fire & Other Restrictions Before You Go!: These conditions can affect your entire trip. For example, Extreme and Critical fire use restrictions mean no campfires and no portable cooking systems/stoves. Bring cold food and no S'mores. 

Be Bear Aware!: Bear safety is critical, for the safety of your group and/or you, as well as our bears. Help keep bears wild by following these tips. 

Overview of Site:

• 4,500-foot elevation
• 21 sites
• RV's up to 16'
• No water
• Vault toilets
• Campsites are first-come, first-served

What to Expect

South Fork Campground on the backside of the San Gabriel Mountains is a hidden gem in the Mojave Desert. Tucked in the middle of steep canyon walls descending from Mt. Islip from the South and Vazquez Rocks in the North, this campground offers 21 spacious sites of year-round tranquility. Each site comes with a fire-ring and grill to huddle around and cook those family campfire meals. Additionally, each site comes with a picnic bench should your group decide a game of cards is in order.   

After an evening around the fire, the South Fork Campground offers hiking and horseback riding to some of the most beautiful features in the San Gabriels. Campers turned hikers can travel south along Big Rock Creek towards Islip Saddle and see seasonal waterfalls or spot a Nelson's Big Horn Ram.  What's more, hikers can head east along the Manzanita Trail towards Vincent's Gap or west to the Devil's Punchbowl - one of the most geologically interesting places in Los Angeles County. Regardless of the time of the year, visitors can find a trail that suits their needs and experience level. 

If hiking isn't your "thing," South Fork Campground delivers excellent snow play, fishing, and stargazing.

At a Glance