Open
— Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No potable water available; bring your own water. Drinking water is available at Diamond Rock area and Horse Springs Campground. Closes when snow makes access impossible.
About
At the southern end of the East Fork canyon sits Buffalo Crossing Campground, an old Civilian Conservation Corps era site that boasts the largest campsites along the river. The East Fork Black River meanders through this forested valley at 7,540 feet elevation, shaded by tall ponderosa pines and bordered by grasses, alders, and cottonwoods.
The 16 campsites are located a few steps from the stream to protect the Black River's unique riparian zone, but access to the river is easy as the undergrowth serves more to enhance the river's picturesque nature than to obstruct passage. Each site includes a rock fire ring and picnic table. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis at $14 per night, with vault toilets available but no potable water on-site.
The East Fork Recreation Area stretches 8 miles along the river from Diamond Rock Campground to Buffalo Crossing, providing excellent opportunities for fishing and exploring the riparian environment. Access requires navigating wide, graveled forest roads from Alpine.
Directions
From Alpine, drive two miles north on US Highway 191 to Forest Road 249. Turn west and follow this wide, graveled forest road 5 miles to Forest Road 276. Turn south and follow Forest Road 276 for six miles to the East Fork Recreation Area.
Nearby Campgrounds