Saddleback Butte State Park Campground
4.1721 reviews170th Street East, between East Avenue J and East Avenue K, Lancaster, CA 93534
Saddleback Butte State Park Campground
$10.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $20 per night ($18 for seniors, $10 for disabled individuals). This fee includes one vehicle and one towed trailer; additional vehicles are $5 each.
About this campground
Escape to the high desert at Saddleback Butte State Park, where 37 welcoming campsites await your arrival on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with everything you need for desert camping comfort—sturdy tables for sunset dinners, BBQ grills for campfire cooking, fire rings for starlit gatherings, and protective shade ramadas offering respite from the desert sun. While you'll find fresh drinking water and modern flush toilets throughout the campground, the absence of showers adds to the authentic desert camping experience that draws adventurers seeking a genuine connection with the Mojave wilderness.
Saddleback Butte State Park Campground accommodates tent and RV camping, with facilities for group camping as well.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of ancient peoples at Saddleback Butte, where archaeological whispers tell stories spanning thousands of years. Native groups once called these desert plains home, leaving behind traces of their deep connection to this stark yet sustaining landscape. The 19th century brought a new chapter as determined settlers arrived, drawn by California's mining prospects and agricultural promise. Today's campground stands as a gateway to this layered history, where every Joshua tree and granite outcrop holds memories of the dreamers, survivors, and visionaries who shaped the Antelope Valley's remarkable story.
Weather and SeasonsTime your desert adventure perfectly with Saddleback Butte's dramatic seasonal transformations. Spring arrives like nature's grand celebration from February through May, painting the desert floor with spectacular wildflower blooms amid temperatures that feel like a warm embrace. As autumn settles in during October and November, the desert offers its mildest moods—though wise campers know to pack layers for its quick-changing temperament. Summer brings the true desert experience with average temperatures dancing around 95°F, occasionally soaring to an intense 115°F that reminds visitors of the Mojave's raw power. Winter nights plunge below freezing, sometimes dusting this ancient landscape with rare, magical snowfall that transforms the buttes into a wonderland.
ElevationPerched at 2,658 feet above sea level, the campground offers a true high desert experience where the air feels crisp and clean, and the expansive sky seems close enough to touch. This elevated position in the Mojave creates perfect conditions for both comfortable camping and spectacular stargazing.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the western Mojave Desert's stunning tableau, where ancient Joshua trees stand like sentinels among fragrant creosote bushes, creating a landscape that feels both otherworldly and intimately familiar. The magnificent Saddleback Butte dominates the horizon, its weathered granite face telling geological stories millions of years in the making. From your campsite, watch as sunrise and sunset paint this desert canvas in colors that defy description—golden ochres, deep purples, and burning oranges that transform the alluvial plains into nature's masterpiece. Every view offers a meditation on the desert's timeless beauty and the small miracles of life that thrive in this seemingly harsh environment.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of the western Mojave Desert, where your campground sits amid the sweeping Antelope Valley's ancient alluvial plains. The star of this geological theater is the majestic 3,651-foot Saddleback Butte, a granite monument sculpted by millions of years of wind, weather, and tectonic forces. This high desert environment showcases nature's resilience through its iconic Joshua trees—those twisted, reaching monuments to survival—and aromatic creosote bushes that release their rain-sweet perfume after desert storms. The landscape tells a story written in stone and sand, where every rock formation and desert vista reveals chapters from Earth's dramatic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites include #4, #6, and #22, along with an accessible group campsite. Restrooms, the campfire center, parking, and the Dowen Nature Trail are accessible as well.
Sites SizeStandard-sized sites. Many sites can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary, with some sites offering partial shade and wind blocks via ramadas.
Total Campsites37 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 14 is noted for having the best view of Saddleback Butte but lacks a ramada. (Review by Marisa Ramirez) Sites 9, 11, and 12 are recommended for overall quality.
Best CampsitesSites 9, 11, and 12 are highly rated for their location and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum occupancy of up to 8 people per site
- stay limits not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each single campsite allows up to 8 guests.
Groups
The Joshua Group Camp accommodates 9-30 people and up to 12 vehicles. Reservations are required, and the fee is $100 per night.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is compact, with angled parking slots to accommodate RVs and trailers up to 30'. Sites are equipped with tables, BBQ grills, fire rings, and shade ramadas.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round, 24 hours/day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for Joshua Group Camp can be made through Reserve California's website.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served; reservations are not available for individual campsites. The group camp requires reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly stated for individual campsites. Reservations are required for the group camp.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Saddleback Butte State Park Campground provides a variety of outdoor activities ranging from hiking to wildlife viewing. The park features trails like the Saddleback Butte Peak Trail and the Dic Dowen Nature Trail, both accessible from the campground.
Hiking
"To reach the peak: take the Little Butte Trail for about 2.5 miles starting from below the day-use area, or the 2-mile Saddleback Butte Peak Trail from the trailhead parking area in the campground." Trails accommodate various skill levels, from easy nature walks to challenging climbs.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Biking is allowed in designated areas; trails are not specified as bike-friendly.Wildlife viewing
Visitors often spot desert species such as coyotes, kit foxes, desert tortoises, and a variety of birds including golden eagles and hawks. "Wildlife may be seen by those park visitors that have curiosity and patience to learn the quiet, unhurried ways of the desert habitat."Cultural and Educational Programs
The visitor center offers hands-on exhibits and displays about the area's natural and cultural history. Guided tours and family programs are available seasonally.Winter Activities
Winter offers peaceful camping conditions and opportunities for stargazing under clear skies. Sub-freezing temperatures and occasional snow are common.Water Sports
No water sports are available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted only within designated fire rings. Collection of firewood is prohibited; firewood is available for purchase.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but specific hours are not detailed.
Hazards
General hazardsVenomous snakes like Mojave Green rattlesnakes are present during warm weather. Dehydration is a risk due to the desert environment; visitors are advised to carry sufficient water.
Active alertsAs of the most recent check, the park is open with no stated restrictions.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The closest emergency services are located in Lancaster, 17 miles west, which includes hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpringtime (February through May) is the best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures and wildflower displays. Autumn (October and November) is also pleasant but with variable temperatures.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water bodies are explicitly mentioned.
Common complaints"Half the park is open, 12+ spaces. The park could use some TLC." (User review by Carol Ivanusic) "People partying all night. Placed along a truck route." (User review by Fat Cat)
HostSome reviews praise the helpfulness of the camp host: "The camp host is super nice and awesome, recommend this spot to anyone." (User review by Jeff K). However, there are complaints about needing a new host (Review by Patty Skinner).
Campground Map
170th Street East, between East Avenue J and East Avenue K, Lancaster, CA 93534
Driving directionsFrom Highway 14, take the Avenue K exit and go east to 170th Street East. Turn left, and the campground entrance is shortly on the right; the day-use area is 1 mile further down at Avenue J. From Highway 15, take Highway 138 west, and turn right on 165th Street East. It curves around and becomes 170th, continue on 170th to East Avenue K and J.
The park is accessible via paved roads leading to the campground entrance; Highway 14 and Highway 15 are major nearby roads providing access. Seasonal road conditions are not explicitly stated.Nearby places
Lancaster (17 miles east), Rosamond (approx. 20 miles southwest), Palmdale (approx. 25 miles southeast)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies such as firewood can be purchased at Saddleback Market, located 4 miles south of the park. Additional shopping and fuel options are available in Lancaster.
Camper Reviews
4.2
21 reviews
Saddleback Butte State Park Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and proximity to hiking trails and scenic views. Common themes include friendly camp hosts and basics like clean restrooms. However, some complaints address road noise and occasional disruptions from other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize clean restrooms, beautiful night skies, and friendly camp hosts. "Stayed at site 14 which lacked a ramada but had the best view of the butte. The whole campground was...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised by users include road noise, lack of fire rings in some sites, and occasional disruptive campers. "Half closed no fire ring in about half their spaces left. No host. People partying all...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend hiking to the peak for stunning views and ensuring you bring plenty of water and shade provisions. "Great quiet place to camp during the Fall, Winter, and Spring in the Antelope...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and Fall are highlighted as the best seasons for camping and hiking, with pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Summer offers clear night skies but comes with extreme heat, while...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Originally named Joshua Tree State Park. A small, quaint, almost secret campground hidden in the Antelope Valley desert." "The place is clean and quiet." "Stayed at site 14 which lacked a ramada but...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best campsites as noted in reviews: #9, #11, #12. Site #14 is praised for its view despite lacking a ramada.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible features include restrooms, campsites (#4, #6, #22), the campfire center, and the Dowen Nature Trail. "Accessible parking and entrance route available."
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Dogs are allowed on a 6-foot leash in the picnic area and campground, and may be walked on the park road."
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025