Sawtooth Canyon Campground | Free BLM Camping Near Barstow
Mojave Desert · Barstow, California
Sawtooth Canyon Campground (New Jack City) — Free BLM Camping Near Barstow
Sawtooth Canyon Campground — known locally as New Jack City — is a free, designated BLM campground about 20 miles south of Barstow, California. Thirteen marked sites sit among granite rock formations in the Mojave Desert, making it a reliable base for climbers, overlanders, and desert photographers who want a simple, no-reservation place to park for the night.
Designated campsite at Sawtooth Canyon Campground, with picnic table and fire ring, surrounded by Mojave Desert rock formations.
Why Camp at Sawtooth Canyon?
Sawtooth Canyon sits close enough to Barstow for an easy overnight trip, but the granite rock formations and open desert views make it feel far from the highway. The campground is best known as the trailhead-style base for the New Jack City climbing area, and it draws a steady mix of climbers, overlanders, and desert photographers.
Because it's a designated BLM campground with 13 marked sites rather than open dispersed land, the legal-camping question is simple here: park in a designated site, and you're covered. That makes it a good pick for first-time desert campers who want the freedom of BLM land without having to judge boundaries themselves.
Road Access & Vehicle Notes
Desert dirt road access into Sawtooth Canyon Campground, roughly 3 miles west of CA-247.
According to the official BLM Sawtooth Canyon Campground page, the campground is approximately 20 miles south of Barstow and about 3 miles west of California Highway 247. Road conditions can change after storms, so review the official site and contact the Barstow Field Office when current access conditions are uncertain.
- 2WD access: Suitable for most vehicles in normal, dry conditions.
- High clearance: Not required, but more comfortable on rougher sections of the access road.
- After rain: Avoid the access road when wet — loose gravel and soft sections can become difficult and can damage the road surface.
Campsite & Amenities
Rock formations surrounding the New Jack City climbing area, adjacent to the campground.
The BLM campground listing identifies 13 campsites and lists shade ramadas, 12 fire pits with grills, 12 barbecue grills, 12 picnic tables, a vault toilet, and a kiosk. Because the number of tables and fire facilities is lower than the number of campsites, do not assume every site has the same setup. Bring all drinking water needed for the stay, and expect unreliable cellular service in parts of the canyon.
Best for
Climbers heading to New Jack City, overlanders and van campers who want a simple no-reservation base, desert photographers, and stargazers looking for open Mojave Desert skies.
Best Time to Camp at Sawtooth Canyon
The Mojave Desert swings between temperature extremes throughout the year. Summer daytime temperatures can exceed 100°F, which makes early-morning activity and serious hydration planning essential. Winter nights can get very cold, so bring appropriate insulation.
- Best overall: Spring and fall, with cooler daytime temperatures and comfortable nights.
- Best for climbing and photography: Cooler shoulder-season mornings and late afternoons.
- Avoid: Midday summer heat and unprotected daytime activity in July–August.
Nearby Adventures & Resupply
Sawtooth Canyon sits near several Mojave Desert attractions, and Barstow is close enough to serve as a full resupply stop before or after your stay.
Rules & Leave No Trace
- Camping is free, first-come and first-served, and does not require a campground reservation.
- A valid California Campfire Permit is required for campfires and certain flame devices. A permit does not override temporary fire bans.
- Check the current BLM California fire restrictions before using a fire pit, barbecue, stove, or lantern. Restrictions can prohibit open fires even at developed sites.
- Pack out all trash, keep the campground clean, and follow BLM Know Before You Go guidance.
- Bring extra water, sun protection, offline navigation, and emergency supplies.
- Respect nearby climbers, wildlife, and other campers sharing the recreation area.
- Stay on designated routes and within established campsites. The official BLM listing states that there are no open travel routes inside the campground area and that OHVs must be trailered in and out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sawtooth Canyon Campground free?
Yes. The official BLM listing states that camping is first-come, first-served, no reservations are needed, and no campground fee is charged.
How many campsites are there?
There are 13 campsites. BLM separately lists 12 fire pits with grills, 12 barbecue grills, and 12 picnic tables, so the facilities are not guaranteed to be identical at every site.
Do I need a high-clearance vehicle to get there?
No. The access road is about 3 miles of dirt road off CA-247, suitable for most vehicles in dry conditions, though high clearance is more comfortable on rougher sections.
Is there drinking water at the campground?
No. No potable water is provided — bring enough water for your entire stay.
Is this the same as the New Jack City climbing area?
New Jack City is the widely used nickname associated with the Sawtooth Canyon climbing and recreation area. The BLM campground provides the designated overnight sites used by many visitors to the area.