How much does camping cost at Old Mesa Campground?

Camping fees at Old Mesa Campground range from $10-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Old Mesa Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Old Mesa Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Old Mesa Campground before I book?

Yes! Old Mesa Campground has 13 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Old Mesa Campground?

Old Mesa Campground is open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. 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 Old Mesa Campground?

Yes, Old Mesa Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Old Mesa Campground?

Fire policies at Old Mesa Campground: Campfires allowed only in designated rings. Restrictions may apply during dry conditions.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Old Mesa Campground have?

Old Mesa Campground has 95 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Old Mesa Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Old Mesa Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Old Mesa Campground?

Old Mesa Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Old Mesa Campground?

Popular activities at Old Mesa Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Old Mesa Campground

4.20

156 reviews

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

Top 16% in CASummer

Pet FriendlySwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,350 ft

Price

$10 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 3% in state

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,350 ft

Price

$10 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

95 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 3% in state

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Old Mesa Campground

$10.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Campsites (Valle, Barranca, Rio): $350 per night Miller Canyon Group Camp: $250 per night.

Standard Site Fee$45.00

Hookup Site Fee$50.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00

Group Site Fee$350.00

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Reserve California

Provider

760-389-2303interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

Old Mesa Campground

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

Nearby places

San Bernardino: 30 miles / ~40 mins

Hesperia: 20 miles / ~30 mins

Victorville: ~35 miles / ~45 mins

Nearby supplies

Silverwood Lake Marina Store onsite for basic supplies, including ice, firewood, snacks, and recreational equipment. Larger supplies available in Hesperia (~20 miles).

Weather at Old Mesa Campground

Current alert: Bear sightings have increased recently, particularly near Old Mesa and New Mesa Campgrounds. Follow bear safety guidelines.

Best Time to Camp at Old Mesa Campground

Summer brings the most reliable recreation window. Days reach 90–100°F with dry heat, while evenings cool into the 50s and 60s, good for campfires and clear skies. Swimming, boating, and fishing peak during these months, and all facilities run at full capacity. Weekend and holiday crowds fill the campground, so weekday visits or early Friday arrivals improve site selection. Winter temperatures swing from 30°F mornings to 60°F afternoons, with occasional rain or light snow.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Summer is peak season for swimming, boating and water sports; reliably hot days and clear nights.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round though some sections may close during winter season. Sites 1-65 in Old Mesa Campground are closed during winter.

About Old Mesa Campground

Old Mesa Campground sits at 3,350 feet in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, where high desert chaparral meets Ponderosa pine forests in the San Bernardino Mountains. The campground has 95 sites with fire rings, picnic tables, flush toilets, and hot showers. Fees range from $10 to $50 per night, and the park stays open year-round with some sections closing in winter.

Old Mesa Campground provides options for tent camping, RV camping (without hookups), and hike-and-bike campsites. Group camping is also available.

Historical Significance

The Serrano Indians lived in these mountains for over 2,500 years, developing traditions like basket weaving and rituals tied to the land. Their presence shaped the cultural heritage of the area.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable recreation window. Days reach 90–100°F with dry heat, while evenings cool into the 50s and 60s, good for campfires and clear skies. Swimming, boating, and fishing peak during these months, and all facilities run at full capacity. Weekend and holiday crowds fill the campground, so weekday visits or early Friday arrivals improve site selection. Winter temperatures swing from 30°F mornings to 60°F afternoons, with occasional rain or light snow.

ElevationPerched at 3,350 feet above sea level, Old Mesa Campground offers a refreshing mountain escape where the air is crisp and the views are endless. This sweet spot elevation delivers naturally cooler temperatures that provide relief from valley heat, while creating the perfect conditions for a stunning array of mountain flora and fauna. Here, diverse ecosystems thrive in the goldilocks zone between desert and alpine environments.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transition zone where desert chaparral climbs into cooler pine forest, creating habitat for bald eagles, California mule deer, and diverse bird species. Silverwood Lake provides a focal point for the landscape, its blue water contrasting with the rugged foothill terrain. Some sites offer shade, while others sit more exposed. The setting is part of the Mojave River Basin, where weathered peaks frame sun-warmed valleys.

Geological RegionSilverwood Lake sparkles like a sapphire jewel in the rugged foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains, where ancient geological forces created a dramatic meeting place of ecosystems. Part of the greater Mojave River Basin, this remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistry as high desert chaparral climbs toward cool Ponderosa pine forests. The result is a biodiversity hotspot where diverse wildlife habitats flourish in the shadows of weathered peaks and sun-warmed valleys.

Scenic ViewsCampsites offer views of Silverwood Lake and surrounding mountain landscapes. Some sites, such as #41, are noted for their scenic vistas.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at Old Mesa Campground. Accommodations are limited to tent and RV camping.

Programs & ActivitiesSummer interpretive activities include campfire talks, Junior Rangers programs, and wildflower walks. The Nature Center showcases local history, wildlife information, and Native American artifacts.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 8 guests per standard site.

Groups

Group sites accommodate up to 120 people and 30 vehicles. They include large fire rings, picnic tables, charcoal grills, and coin-operated showers. No group sites are equipped with RV hookups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are arranged in loops with minimal privacy between spots. No trees or screening separate most sites, so neighbors are close. Some areas offer proximity to hiking trails and lake access, but spacing is tight overall.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through ReserveCalifornia.com or via phone.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up sites, particularly during peak season. Sites fill up early in the morning during summer weekends.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees may apply based on ReserveCalifornia policies. Details available on reservation platform.

AccessibilityFive accessible tent campsites are available at Old Mesa Campground. These sites include nearby accessible restrooms and showers. Accessibility updates are listed on the official park website.

Site SizeCampsites are generally spacious; however, some sites are described as tight or sloped. Tent pad sizes range from 10x20 feet to 32x16 feet.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal between campsites as noted by user reviews. One camper wrote, 'You are very close to your neighbor's site with no trees/privacy in between.

Total Campsites95 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites #107 and #108 due to lack of shade; choose sites near the hiking trail for easy lake access.

Best CampsitesReviews mention site 41 for views, 76 for space (fits three tents), and 92 for shade. Sites 97 and 103 also get shade. Site 12 sits near the hiking trail to the lake. Tent pads range from 10x20 feet to 32x16 feet, though some sites are tight or sloped.

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Amenities available

The Old Mesa Campground offers a variety of amenities aimed at providing a pleasant camping experience. Each campsite features a fire ring, charcoal grill, and picnic table. Restrooms and coin-operated showers are available within the campground, providing convenience for campers. Flush toilets are provided, ensuring a comfortable stay. Potable water spigots are scattered throughout, allowing easy access to drinking water. Reviewers mention that the restrooms and showers are generally clean, although cleanliness may vary throughout the day. Firewood can be purchased at the entrance station or camp host site. The campground does not offer any Wi-Fi or internet facilities, and reviewers have noted that cell phone reception may be unreliable depending on the provider and area within the campground. Pets are allowed, but dogs must be kept on a leash and are not permitted on the lake beaches.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Old Mesa Campground offers a wide range of recreational activities. Hiking and biking trails are accessible directly from certain campsites, providing opportunities to explore Silverwood Lake and its surrounding areas. Swimming is available at two designated swim beaches near the lake, while fishing is a popular activity due to the variety of fish species stocked in the lake. Wildlife viewing includes sightings of animals such as bears and coyotes, especially in wooded areas.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are active, especially in densely wooded areas. Rattlesnakes and mosquitoes are common. Seasonal fire risks due to dry conditions.

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.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed only in designated rings. Restrictions may apply during dry conditions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Emergency ServicesSan Bernardino Community Hospital (~30 miles); Hesperia Police Department (~20 miles); onsite ranger station for immediate assistance.

Trash & RecyclingPark-provided dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Visitors are reminded to dispose of their trash before leaving their campsite or going to bed to minimize bear encounters.

Water FeaturesSilverwood Lake is accessible via hiking trails and is approximately 1.5 miles from Old Mesa Campground.

Camp HostCamp host available onsite for assistance and firewood sales.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception is inconsistent depending on provider and location within the campground as noted by various user reviews. Some campers have reported no signal during their stay.

Trip Planning Tools

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

156 reviews

Satisfactory

Old Mesa Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground’s natural beauty, convenient amenities, and well-maintained facilities, but some users note issues with site privacy, noise levels, and restroom cleanliness during peak times.

Review Summaries

Based on 156 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 156 reviews.

Site #41Mentioned
Site #41 is noted for its terrific view.
Site #76Mentioned
Site #76 fits three tents and is close to restrooms.
Site #87Mentioned
Site #87 was criticized for being too small and sloped.

What Campers Love

Highlights include clean restrooms and showers, ample shade at certain campsites, accessibility to hiking trails and the lake, and well-patrolled ranger services ensuring safety. One user stated,...

Based on 156 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include poor enforcement of noise regulations, lack of privacy between sites, and restroom cleanliness deteriorating by evening. Some campers mentioned overcrowded conditions during...

Based on 156 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing quarters for showers, choosing shaded sites such as #97 and #103, arriving early to secure the best spots during peak season, and using bear-proof containers for food storage....

Based on 156 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews vary by season, with winter reviews mentioning cold temperatures and high winds making tent camping less ideal, while summer reviews highlight the popularity of swimming and water sports...

Based on 156 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Site #76 was big, fit 3 tents. Restrooms are clean, hot water in showers.' 'Wonderful wooded campsites with walkable access to Silverwood Lake.' 'Clean and has coin showers with really hot water.'...

Based on 156 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites, such as #1 and #31, are well-maintained with nearby accessible restrooms and showers, but parking barriers may pose challenges for some visitors.

Based on 156 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, but pets must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on beaches. One user noted, 'Great place for pets, but keep them away from broken glass in campsites.'

Based on 156 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Lake swimmers, anglers, and families who want flush toilets and coin showers without paying resort prices. Site #41 has the best views, #97 and #103 offer shade, and site #12 puts you a short walk from the trail down to the water.

Skip if

Sites are wide open with almost no screening between neighbors, and summer weekend crowds amplify the noise well past 10 PM. No hookups, no dump station, and cell signal is unreliable on most carriers.

Nearby Campgrounds

14651 Cedar Circle, Hesperia, CA 92345

New Mesa Campground sits at 3,350 feet in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, offering 136 sites for tents, RVs up to 32 feet, and groups. Full hookups (water, electric, sewer) are available, along with showers, flush toilets, and a camp store. Rates run $45-$50 per night. The campground provides direct access to the lake for boating, fishing, and swimming, plus trailheads for hiking and biking through mixed pine forest and chaparral.