OBJECTIVE: To examine correlates of sexual experimentation and risk among urban, early adolescent girls (N=236, 12.38+/-1.2 years). METHODS: Measures of HIV risk-related attitudes, interpersonal influences, and intentions were compared based on girls' degree of sexual experimentation and risk. RESULTS: Girls in high sexual experimentation and risk groups scored highest on deviant peer norms; endorsements of risky behaviors; and inability to refuse unprotected sex, offset negative partner influences, avoid intercourse, and assert sexual desires. Greater experimentation occurred among girls with older versus same-age or younger partners. CONCLUSIONS: Risk correlates should be considered in designing HIV prevention programs.