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Southfork Campground

Valyermo, California · Los Angeles County · Campground

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 …

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34.39562, -117.82073
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About Southfork Campground

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.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Southfork Campground

Heading to Southfork Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Southfork Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Southfork Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/243249) for the latest entry policy and availability.