Southfork Campground
Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations. Bring your own water as none is available on-site. High clearance vehicles recommended due to road conditions.
Wind Advisory issued January 13 at 12:55PM PST until January 14 at 2:00PM PST by NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA
* WHAT...Northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. Isolated gusts to 55 mph possible. * WHERE...Eastern San Gabriel Mountains. * WHEN...Until 2 PM PST Wednesday. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Gusty cross winds could make driving difficult.
Eaton Fire Area Closure
In effort to protect the public and to facilitate natural recovery of the resources affected by the Eaton Fire, this closure extends the Eaton Fire Area Closure through December 31, 2027.
Fire Danger Level Downgraded to "High"
The fire danger level for the Angeles National Forest has been lowered from “Very High” to “High”. Despite the change, there are no new fire restrictions.What does this mean to you?
Be Prepared for Winter Weather
Recent storms have brought winter weather to the Angeles National Forest! From the foothills to elevations reaching over 10,000 feet, visitors can encounter a variety of conditions in the mountains.
Forest Order No. 05-01-25-13, Camping Equipment Prohibition
Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.50(a), and to provide for public safety, the following acts are prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument. This Order is effective from August 15, 2025, through August 1, 2027.
Bridge Fire Area Closure Terminated
The Bridge Fire Area Closure (Forest Order No. 05-01-25-12) that was in effect from June 5, 2025 through May 22, 2026 has been terminated starting June 20, 2025.
Office & Visitor Center Updates - Need Info or Passes?
The information below provides updates to existing information on our webpage about Angeles National Forest offices and visitor centers. Check this alert regularly.
Williamson Rock Area and Trail Closure
Hikers and equestrians along the Pacific Crest Trail may be affected by a temporary closure of the Williamson Rock area of the Angeles National Forest. This closure (Forest Order No.
Planning to Camp? (Stay Limits/Dispersed Camping Restrictions) til Dec. 15, 2026
The following is prohibited within the Angeles National Forest and San Gabriel Mountains National Monument from Dec. 16, 2022, through Dec. 15, 2026:
About
South Fork Campground is a secluded desert oasis tucked into the steep canyon walls on the north side of the San Gabriel Mountains. At 4,500 feet elevation, this 21-site campground offers year-round tranquility away from the crowds, making it one of the few truly year-round accessible campgrounds in the San Gabriels. Each spacious site includes a fire ring, grill, and picnic table, providing the essentials for a comfortable camping experience in the high desert. The campground serves as a major trailhead for exploring the desert slopes of the San Gabriels. Hikers can travel south along Big Rock Creek toward Islip Saddle to see seasonal waterfalls and potentially spot Nelson's Bighorn Sheep. To the east, the Manzanita Trail leads toward Vincent's Gap, while westbound trails reach Devil's Punchbowl, one of the most geologically fascinating features in Los Angeles County where the San Andreas Fault creates dramatic rock formations. The area also offers opportunities for horseback riding, fishing, snow play in winter, and exceptional stargazing. Campers should come prepared as no water is available on-site and vault toilets are the only facilities. High clearance vehicles are recommended due to potential debris flow and road conditions from rain. An Adventure Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is required. The remote location and lack of reservations make this an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and adventure in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Directions
From Valyermo, CA, head east on Big Pines Highway for approximately 5 miles. Turn right onto Big Rock Creek Road and continue for about 3 miles to reach Southfork Campground.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 16ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (626) 574-1613 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Southfork Campground | |
| View on Recreation.gov |
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