Sawtooth Canyon Campground

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served. Campfire permits are required and may be obtained online at preventwildfireca.org. No potable water available; campers must bring their own.

About

Sawtooth Canyon Campground sits in the rugged Mojave Desert terrain approximately three miles west of Highway 247, about 20 miles south of Barstow. Known widely as New Jack City by the rock climbing community, this free BLM campground offers 13 campsites scattered around the canyon, with four sites near Boy Scout Wall, three walk-in sites across the canyon, and a host site near White Face Wall. The historic name for the canyon is Traer Agua, meaning "bring water" in Spanish, while Sawtooth refers to the serrated ridge line resembling a saw blade. The campground provides basic amenities including shade ramadas, fire pits with grills, BBQ grills, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Sites are available first-come, first-served with no fees or reservations. The area is managed as a "Limited" use area to minimize impact on soil, vegetation, wildlife, and scenic values. While popular with rock climbers accessing the 350+ sport climbing routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.13, the campground also attracts wildlife viewers, hunters, and those seeking a primitive desert camping experience. OHV riding is prohibited; vehicles must be trailered in and out as there are no open travel routes or staging areas.

Directions

From Barstow, drive south on Highway 247 for approximately 20 miles. The campground is located about 3 miles west of Highway 247.

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