Sawmill Walk-in Campground
Currently closed for winter. Saddlebag Lake Road remains snow-covered. The campground typically opens in late June depending on snowpack and road conditions. No reservations; self-register on arrival.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
ESCCRP PANORAMA PROJECT AREA CLOSURE
To provide for public safety while contractors perform forest health and fuels reduction work for the Panorama portion of the ESCCRP project.
About
Sawmill Walk-in Campground offers a backcountry-style camping experience at 9,800 feet elevation near the boundary of the Hoover Wilderness in Inyo National Forest. Unlike drive-up campgrounds, this facility requires a quarter-mile hike on a dirt trail from the 15-space parking area at the entrance off Saddlebag Lake Road. The walk-in format keeps traffic minimal and preserves a quieter atmosphere suited to those seeking solitude at high altitude. The campground has 12 sites, most with shade and room for up to two tents. Each site is equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-resistant food storage locker. Two vault toilets are located between sites 8 and 9. There is no potable water; nearby Lee Vining Creek is the only water source. Campers must pack out all trash. Registration is first-come, first-served with self-pay at the campground. Hiking beyond the campground boundary enters the Harvey Monroe Hall Natural Area, a protected research zone where only day use is permitted. This area provides scientists with baseline data for studying climate change effects at high elevation. Dogs are allowed but must remain leashed, and bear activity is common throughout the area.
Directions
From US 395 at Lee Vining, drive west on CA 120 (Tioga Pass Road) approximately 12 miles to Saddlebag Lake Road (Forest Road 04), then turn north. The campground parking area with 15 overnight spaces is on Saddlebag Lake Road. Sites require a quarter-mile walk from parking.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (760) 647-3044 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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