Is Sawmill Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Sawmill Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit Sawmill Campground?

Sawmill Campground is open No seasonal restrictions or closures noted.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Sawmill Campground?

Sawmill Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Sawmill Campground have?

Sawmill Campground has 8 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Sawmill Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Sawmill Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Sawmill Campground?

Sawmill Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Sawmill Campground

3.69

45 reviews

Featured in:Tent Camping California

Quick Facts

5,200 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

8 campsites

Season

No seasonal restrict...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Acton Work Center Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,200 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

8 campsites

Season

No seasonal restrict...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Acton Work Center Official Website

Get Directions

Sawmill Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

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I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Sawmill Campground

34.7010, -118.5718

Nearby places

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Weather at Sawmill Campground

Best Time to Camp at Sawmill Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (roughly 55–75°F) with crisp, quiet nights (around 30–45°F), making hiking and wildlife viewing far more pleasant than the intense summer heat. Trails are less dusty after occasional early autumn breezes and the eight first-come, first-served sites mean excellent solitude and stargazing under clear skies. Crowd levels are low compared with summer weekends, and fire risk typically drops compared with mid‑summer, so fall is ideal for long dayhI Peak months: October, November, April, May Avoid: July, August

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Explicitly noted as best season: comfortable days (55–75°F) and crisp nights.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: No seasonal restrictions or closures noted.

About Sawmill Campground

Sawmill Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Angeles National Forest, operated by Acton Work Center. This very small first-come, first-served site offers direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables serving tent and RV campers. The quiet, clean setting draws hikers and stargazers seeking solitude, though visitors should pack out trash and bring their own supplies.

Sawmill Campground provides primitive amenities and is geared toward tent and small RV camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (roughly 55–75°F) with crisp, quiet nights (around 30–45°F), making hiking and wildlife viewing far more pleasant than the intense summer heat. Trails are less dusty after occasional early autumn breezes and the eight first-come, first-served sites mean excellent solitude and stargazing under clear skies. Crowd levels are low compared with summer weekends, and fire risk typically drops compared with mid‑summer, so fall is ideal for long dayhI Peak months: October, November, April, May Avoid: July, August

Elevation5200 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a rugged high-desert landscape at 5,200 feet, where tectonic uplift and erosion have created weathered ridges and exposed terrain. Scrub oak communities dot the hillsides, adapted to the dry conditions and temperature extremes. Views open up across the surrounding backcountry. The geology reflects millions of years of mountain-building forces, though the immediate area around the sites is fairly exposed with limited shade.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are provided at this site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay limit not specified in the text.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites reportedly accommodate small groups or individuals but no specific guest limits provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsNull

AccessibilityNo specific information is given about accessibility features for disabled users.

Site SizeThe sites are standard size, capable of accommodating small RVs up to 16 feet.

PrivacyNo comments or official descriptions on the privacy of sites were provided.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesReviewers recommended 4x4 or high-clearance vehicles due to rough road conditions.

Amenities available

The Angeles National Forest has completed improvements to Sawmill and Bear campgrounds through Great American Outdoors Act funds. Improvements include new fire rings, bear-proof storage lockers, information boards, railings to better outline parking spots, and drainage features.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Sawmill Campground

Campground activities are quite limited, but the site provides an authentic, rugged outdoor experience. Visitors can hike nearby trails, explore the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Hiking4.0/5

Direct access to the Pacific Crest Trail; PCT hiking is a primary draw.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Called out as a draw for stargazers; quiet, dark setting at 5,200 ft.

Photography4.0/5Weathered ridges, exposed terrain and open views make for strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

45 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Sawmill Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Sawmill Campground present a highly mixed picture. Many visitors appreciate the peace and natural beauty, noting that it is an ideal escape from city life. However, others have criticized the lack of maintenance, infestation issues, and the rough access road.

Review Summaries

Based on 45 reviews

What Campers Love

Some positive aspects include the quiet and clean environment, easy access to the Pacific Crest Trail, and good views. One user said, 'Great campground, quiet and clean, stayed one night with a group...

Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor road conditions with rough trails unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles, lack of water, infestation of fire ants and wasps, and maintenance issues like trash overflow...

Based on 45 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific sites are not highlighted in the reviews as better or worse.

Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to bring all necessary supplies, including water and toilet paper. A permit is required to camp here, and users should be aware of fire restrictions.

Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground appears to be less enjoyable during hot weather due to the lack of shade and water. One reviewer mentioned that it was 'too hot to enjoy during the day.'

Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great camp ground quiet and clean stayed one night with a group of guys nobody bothered us had an awesome time!' 2. 'The scenery is breathtaking. The weather was so pleasant and unexpected.' 3....

Based on 45 reviews