Saddleback Butte Sp Group Site

Open — The campground is currently open year-round and accepting reservations for the Joshua Group Camp through ReserveCalifornia. The day-use area operates daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the campground is accessible 24 hours for registered overnight guests. Reservations are required for the group site with a minimum of 9 occupants.

About

Joshua Group Camp at Saddleback Butte State Park offers a distinctive group camping experience in the high-desert Joshua tree woodland of the western Mojave Desert. Located a short walk from the family campground area, this group site accommodates 9-30 people with parking for up to 12 vehicles, making it ideal for larger gatherings, family reunions, or organized group outings. The site is positioned near the base of the impressive 3,651-foot granite Saddleback Butte, which dominates the landscape and provides a dramatic backdrop for camping activities. The park was established in 1960 to preserve examples of native Joshua tree woodlands and other plants and animals that were once common throughout this high desert area. Campers have access to potable water and flush toilet facilities located throughout the campground area. Each camping area includes tables, BBQ grills, and fire rings. The campground sits at 2,608 feet elevation in the broad alluvial bottom land of the Antelope Valley, about 17 miles east of Lancaster. From the group camp, visitors can access multiple hiking trails including the 2-mile Saddleback Butte Peak Trail and the 2.5-mile Little Butte Trail, both leading to the summit with breathtaking 360-degree views across the Antelope Valley and Mojave Desert. The park also features the short ADA-accessible Dic Dowen Nature Trail near the visitor center. Wildlife viewing opportunities include desert tortoises, kit foxes, coyotes, and numerous bird species including golden eagles and mountain bluebirds. Summer evenings offer exceptional stargazing under clear desert skies, while spring (February through May) brings spectacular wildflower displays. The campground is open year-round, though summer temperatures can reach 95-115°F while winter nights occasionally drop below freezing with rare snow. The park enforces a 15 mph speed limit and maintains quiet hours to preserve the peaceful desert atmosphere. Firewood must be purchased as collecting from the park is illegal and damages critical wildlife habitat. The day-use area operates 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the campground remains accessible 24 hours for registered campers.

Directions

From Highway 14 in Lancaster, take the Avenue K exit and head east to 170th Street East. Turn left (north) on 170th Street East, and the campground entrance is shortly on the right at Avenue K. The day-use area entrance is located 1 mile further south at Avenue J and 170th Street East. The park is 17 miles east of Lancaster.

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