The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Sawtooth Canyon Campground is a popular spot for rock climbing, hunting, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and camping. Otherwise known as "New Jack City," this spot is approximately 20 miles from Barstow and three miles off Highway 247. The name "Sawtooth" comes from the saw blade shape of the overlooking mountain ridge. Historically, the canyon was called "Traer Agua," meaning "bring water." To preserve the natural vegetation and scenic values, off-roading vehicles are not permitted. Sawtooth Canyon Campground is administered by the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Barstow Field Office. In California alone, the BLM oversees 15 million acres of public lands. Drive southeast for about 86 miles to find Joshua Tree National Park. Death Valley National Park is a little more than three hours north. San Bernardino and Ontario are less than 100 miles south.
This trail is in the Stoddard Valley OHV Area and circles the base of Watkins Peak. The land is steep, rocky, and tricky to navigate in places. You're welcome to tackle the climb on foot or with an ATV. Length: 6.2 miles Intensity: Hard
From the Mojave Freeway, you'll head straight west through slippery sand washes and rocky desert areas toward Route 66. The path is simple to follow but offers very little shade. Consider stopping by the nearby Elmer's Bottle Tree Ranch roadside attraction. Length: 8.5 miles Intensity: Easy
San Bernardino National Forest provides ample river, stream, and lake fishing. For example, the Jenks Lake Day Use Area has an accessible pier and several fishing pads. Anglers often catch rainbow trout, catfish, bluegill, and bass. Bear Creek and Mill Creek are great spots for brown and rainbow trout. You may have to pay for parking or grab an Adventure Pass to visit certain areas in this national forest.
Sawtooth Canyon, known to the climbing community as New Jack City, is a sport climbing haven with more than 450 routes ranging from 5.6 to 5.13. Many of the routes here are short and offer stunning views of California's high desert. Boy Scout Wall is one of the best stops for beginners. The climbs at this site have difficulties varying from 5.7 to 5.11c. The 5.10a Holey Moley is another excellent climb with 12 bolts and an anchor.
The area around Sawtooth Canyon Campground is home to mule deer, foxes, coyotes, rattlesnakes, and bears. You may also spot bald eagles, wild turkeys, pheasants, crows, and mountain quail. While there are many mountain lions in California, it's unlikely you'll come across one. They tend to be most active at night in the foothills and mountains where deer graze. Practice safe hiking habits by always staying alert on trails and traveling with friends.
You're welcome to use the picnic tables and barbeque grills at Sawtooth Canyon Campground. The Stoddard Valley OHV Area and El Mirage OHV Area also have restrooms and sites for picnicking and resting. Feel free to plan your meals at trailheads or in your RV. No matter where you stop and eat, be sure to clean up after your group and leave no garbage behind.
Some of the best stargazing in the state can be found at nearby Afton Canyon. About 40 miles away from Barstow, this campground offers unobstructed views of the night sky free of any light pollution. Don't forget to explore Amboy Crater in San Bernardino County just off Route 66. The large parking lot provides plenty of secure ground for hobby telescopes. More breathtaking stargazing opportunities can be found at San Bernardino National Forest and the Mojave National Preserve.
Consider staying at one of the many beautiful Bureau of Land Management campgrounds in the area like Sawtooth Canyon Campground or Owl Canyon Campground. The 13-site Sawtooth Canyon has fire pits, vault toilets, and picnicking facilities. All sites here are available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no fees or reservations required. You're permitted to stay for up to 14 days in a 28-day period. The 22-site Owl Canyon offers picnic tables and fire rings but no hookups. The fee to camp is $6 per night. You'll find more luxurious RV camping options at the Barstow/Calico KOA Holiday. This RV park has 70-foot pull-through sites with full hookups and free Wi-Fi. They also provide banana bikes, an archery range, and free shuttles to Calico Ghost Town, a historic silver-mining settlement from the 1880s.
A search for "BLM camping near me" turns up a number of Bureau of Land Management free camping opportunities. You can use a dispersed or primitive camp along State Route 247 or Interstate 15. RV campers can also stay for free at Stoddard Wells Road. The path is graded with well-packed sand on both sides. The Flying J Travel Center, which offers free potable water and $10 RV dump services is less than 30 minutes away.
When camping at Sawtooth Canyon, be aware that fires can only be built in the provided pits. When dispersed camping, it's best to use a camping stove to prevent wildfires. Read up on local venomous snakes and first-aid tips to keep yourself safe while hiking and climbing. Cell service isn't reliable in many areas, making it necessary to bring along paper maps or downloaded guides. If it begins to rain or storm, quickly move to higher ground to avoid any flash flooding dangers. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Leave all plants, animals, fossils, and artifacts where you found them. If you visit Sawtooth Canyon between mid-January and mid-September, make sure to avoid the golden eagle nests in the area. Minimize your environmental impact by sticking to established trails and limiting your contact with the local wildlife. Practicing the "Leave No Trace" guidelines is a must throughout your visit.
From Barstow, drive about 15 miles south on State Route 247. Look for a dirt road on your right leading to the campground. If you pass Sidewinder Mountain, you've gone too far. Address: 2601 Barstow Road, Barstow, CA 92311 Ready to visit Sawtooth Canyon Campground? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night, where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
