Sawtooth Canyon Campground
Sawtooth Canyon Campground, often referred to as “New Jack City” by the climbing community, is a small, developed campground located about 20 miles south of Barstow and three miles west of California Highway 247. The campground features 13 campsites and is popular among rock climbers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a quiet desert camping experience.
The area is known for its striking ridge line, resembling a saw blade, and offers a range of recreational activities, including rock climbing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.
Campground Details
| Site Types | Tent, Small RVs (first-come, first-serve) |
| Amenities | Vault Toilet, Fire Pits, BBQ Grills, Picnic Tables |
| Reservations | Not required; first-come, first-serve |
| Fees | None |
| Fire Regulations | Campfire permits required; restrictions may apply |
| Phone | 760-252-6000 |
| Location | Mojave Desert, 20 miles south of Barstow |
| Geographic Coordinates | 34.670107, -116.983935 |
| Season | Year-round |
| Management | US Burea of Land Management |
Getting to Sawtooth Canyon Campground
Sawtooth Canyon Campground is located off California Highway 247, approximately three miles west of the highway. From Barstow, head south on Highway 247 for about 20 miles, then follow signs for the campground. The site is easily accessible, but dirt roads leading into the campground may require careful navigation for low-clearance vehicles.
Campground Overview
Nestled within the Mojave Desert’s rugged terrain, Sawtooth Canyon Campground provides a serene getaway for those looking to immerse themselves in the desert’s natural beauty. With just 13 campsites, the area is small but well-equipped with fire pits, BBQ grills, and picnic tables, making it an excellent destination for minimalist campers and rock climbers alike.
Known as “New Jack City” by the climbing community, the campground is a hub for climbers drawn to its unique rock formations. The historic name for the canyon, “Traer Agua,” reflects its past significance as a water source in the arid landscape. Today, visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, stargazing, and picnicking in this quiet desert oasis.
While the campground does not charge fees, it operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, with a 14-day camping limit within a 28-day period. Fire safety is a priority in the region, with campfire permits required and restrictions enforced during fire season. Motorized recreation is limited, as off-highway vehicle (OHV) use is prohibited in the area to protect the delicate desert ecosystem.
Sawtooth Canyon Campground offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, making it a prime destination for rock climbers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful desert retreat.
Rock Climbing
Sawtooth Canyon is a popular sport climbing destination, with more than 350 sport climbs ranging from 5.6 – 5.13 scattered across the high desert, Sawtooth Canyon offers something for climbers of all abilities.
The rock is an unusual form of metamorphic rock of volcanic origin, offering often tricky and thought-provoking sequences and moves on huecos, pockets, edges, jugs, underclings, and crimps.
The climbing is typically steep and diverse, requiring both strength and technique. Located in the high desert the climbing season runs from October through May.
