South Fork State Recreation Area

State: Nevada

Address 1: 353 Lower South Fork Unit 8

City: Spring Creek

Zip: 89815

Phone: (775) 744-4346

Open: Open all year

Number of Sites: 25

Camp URL: http://parks.nv.gov/sf.htm

Full Hook: Yes

South Fork Reservoir covers 1,650 acres and is surrounded by 2,200 acres of wildlife-filled meadow lands and rolling hills. It is popular for hunting, camping, boating, picnicking, winter sports and wildlife viewing. The park is best known for its trophy-class trout and bass fishery. Facilities include a boat launch, campground, trailer dump station and picnic area. Located 16 miles south of Elko on State Route 228, the park is open year-round, but access may be hampered by extreme cold and snow during the winter months.

Location and Climate
South Fork State Recreation Area is located by traveling 7 miles south of Elko on State Route 227, 5.5 miles south on State Route 228, and 3.5 miles SW on Lower South Fork Road. The Ruby Mountains are 10-15 miles to the east and provide a grand scenic backdrop for the site, rising to 11,387 feet at Ruby Dome.

The area is typical of Northeastern Nevada with arid, hot summers and cold winters. Temperatures are variable with high’s in the 90’s in the summers with minus lows possible during the winter.

Entrance Fee: An entrance fee is charged to enter the park, with additional fee for camping and boat launching. Current fees are posted at the park entrance. Click here for all individual park fees by region.

Boat Launching: Two boat ramps are available. The West Shore Boat Launch was completed in 1999 and can accommodate boats up to 15′ in length. Float tube enthusiasts are encouraged to use this area. The main boat launch has ample parking and a non-flush restroom.

Camping: A 25 site campground is located off the North park access road. Facilities include campsite tables, grills and a flush restroom with showers. The campground is open from early May to November 15th. Open camping is also available along the West Shore.

Day-use: There are no developed day-use facilities at this time. Picnicking is allowed in most areas of the reservoir.

RV Dump Station: A R.V. Dump Station is available year-round and is just off the main North park entrance road.

Park Office: Dependent upon staffing, the park office is usually open M-F from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Please stop in if you need assistance.