Diamond Rock Campground – East Fork of the Black River

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Diamond Rock Campground
Adirondack shelters at Diamond Rock Campground

Diamond Rock Campground is the uppermost campground on this section of the East Fork of the Black River. Small and closely knit, only small trailers can fit into one of the 12 campsites. Diamond Rock is nicely shaded by ponderosa pines and sits just a few paces away from the river. The campground also contains a few sites that have wooden shelters that were built by the Civilian Conservations Corps (CCC) in the 1930’s.

The Wallow Fire of 2011 skipped over this part of the forest.  There is some spotting but most the the area remains untouched.  The pictures here were taken two years after the fire.

Three of the campsites in Diamond Rock have Adirondack style three sided shelters built by the CCC back in the depression era.

Diamond Rock is on a first come first served basis so reservations are not accepted.  There are several campgrounds along the river downstream if this one is fully occupied when you arrive.  Those campgrounds include Aspen, Deer Creek, Raccoon, Horse Springs and Buffalo Crossing.

Fishing at Diamond Rock is great on light tackle as the fish tend to be a bit smaller as the river narrows is this area. Although, the last time I was there in 2004, I caught a nice 17″ brown trout by the one lane bridge just a mile downstream from the campground.

Directions

Directions from Big Lake: From the Big Lake entrance head east up the dirt road towards Three Forks 7.5 miles on FR 113 which turns into FR 249. Turn Right at the FR 403 (signs also guide the way) and travel 3 miles to FR 276. Descend into the Canyon 3.6 miles to the campground.

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 developed camping area.

General Notes

  • There are no electric or RV hookups at the campground.  The nearest RV Dump is at Big Lake. 15 miles away, approx 40 minute drive
  • Pets must be restrained on a leash at all times
  • Water is available
  • Elevation – 7885′
  • Trailer Limit 10′
  • Access – Dirt
  • Restrooms – Vault
  • Showers- None, nearest at Big Lake 15 miles away
  • Store -No, Nearest at Big Lake
  • Fire rings, Tables and Grills.
  • Information – Alpine Ranger District – 928-333-4301