Accessible via a rough but manageable dirt road, Southfork Campground operates as a first-come, first-served site with 21 individual campsites in the Angeles National Forest. The drive requires some vehicle clearance, though reviewers confirm most cars can make the trip with careful navigation. No potable water or electricity is available.
The campground sits within walking distance of a creek that draws wildlife including ducks and other desert animals. Sites vary in tree coverage, with some offering more shade than others. Two pit toilet locations and large dumpsters serve the camping area, though maintenance can be inconsistent during peak periods. Individual fire pits are available at select sites, with firewood sold on-site.
Road noise from Highway 38 carries to some areas of the campground, while crowd levels significantly impact the atmosphere. Amy D. found "fantastic hiking up a nearby creek" during her quieter Sunday night stay. The surrounding terrain offers dark skies for stargazing when conditions align. Campers exploring the broader region can find additional camping spots around Angeles National Forest.
The campground operates from May through November, with no pets allowed and a 16-foot trailer length recommendation for easier maneuvering.
Description
At a Glance:4,500-foot elevation21 sitesRV's up to 16'No waterVault toiletsCampsites are first-come, first-servedWhat to ExpectSouth 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.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSouthfork Campground is located in California
Coordinates
34.395623 N
117.820733 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonNo Coverage- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&T5GGood Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 1 hr 26 min from Los Angeles, CA
- 1 hr 59 min from Oxnard, CA
- 2 hrs 7 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 2 hrs 43 min from San Diego, CA
