Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

4.38

363 reviews

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,350 ft

Price

$10 - $350/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

136 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

3,350 ft

Price

$10 - $350/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

136 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

$10.00 - $350.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $10 per night for hike-and-bike sites to $350 per night for group campsites. Additional vehicles cost $10 per vehicle.

Standard Site Fee$45.00

Hookup Site Fee$50.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00

Group Site Fee$350.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California

Provider

760-389-2281interp@parks.ca.gov

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What Campers Say

4.38

Recommended

Based on 363 reviews

340 Google reviews

Most mentioned

showerswatersites

"User reviews suggest that the campground offers excellent amenities for group camping, with convenient fire rings, picnic tables, and flush toilets. Some users noted the lack of privacy and running water at Miller Canyon Group Campsites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345

Driving directionsThe park is located via Highway 138, 11 miles east of I-15; or 20 miles north of San Bernardino via Highways 18 & 138. For GPS, type in Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area or 13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345.

The park is accessible year-round via paved highways and roads. Seasonal closures are not mentioned, but heavy traffic during the summer and early morning hours is common as the park reaches capacity.

Nearby places

11 miles east of I-15

20 miles north of San Bernardino.

Nearby supplies

The marina store within Silverwood Lake provides camping equipment, boating fuel, snacks, firewood, and fishing licenses.

Best Time to Camp at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

Experience the best of Southern California's high-desert climate at Silverwood Lake, where summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, with temperatures dancing between a toasty 90 to 100°F. As autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, winter arrives with refreshing rains and crisp air, offering comfortable temperatures ranging from 30 to 65°F. This seasonal transformation creates year-round camping opportunities, from warm summer nights under star-filled skies to cozy winter mornings wrapped in the fresh mountain air.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in CA

Summer is peak season for swimming, boating and beaches; ideal water activity weather.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Cooler temps and hiking conditions make fall favorable; fewer crowd notes than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring supports hiking, milder weather and good photography; lake activities start ramping up.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 23% in CA

Open year‑round; winter offers eagle tours and snow views, but fewer water activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Year-round for most campgrounds; Miller Canyon Group Campsites are open May 1 – Sep 30.
Current Alerts: The park is open, with no current advisories as of 12/13/2024.

About Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

Escape to Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, where crystal-clear waters meet rugged mountain terrain to create the perfect outdoor playground. This versatile camping destination welcomes everyone from solo adventurers to large family gatherings, offering thoughtfully designed individual sites and spacious group camping areas equipped with modern conveniences. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring scenic hiking trails, launching your boat for a day on the water, or cooling off with an afternoon swim, Silverwood Lake transforms every moment into an unforgettable memory.

Silverwood Lake SRA Group Campground accommodates group campers, RVs, and primitive camping. It is designed to meet the needs of large families or organizations.

Historical SignificanceLong before modern campers discovered this mountain oasis, the Serrano people called these lands home, establishing thriving settlements along the life-giving rivers and streams. Their rich cultural legacy lives on in the landscape, where ancient gathering places once echoed with ritual storytelling passed down through generations. The Serrano's masterful basket weaving traditions, using native plants still found throughout the area, created both practical tools and artistic treasures that connected them deeply to this sacred land.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Southern California's high-desert climate at Silverwood Lake, where summer brings sun-drenched days perfect for water activities, with temperatures dancing between a toasty 90 to 100°F. As autumn paints the landscape in golden hues, winter arrives with refreshing rains and crisp air, offering comfortable temperatures ranging from 30 to 65°F. This seasonal transformation creates year-round camping opportunities, from warm summer nights under star-filled skies to cozy winter mornings wrapped in the fresh mountain air.

ElevationPerched at 3,350 feet above sea level, Silverwood Lake offers a refreshing mountain retreat that feels worlds away from the heat of the surrounding desert valleys. This elevated paradise delivers naturally air-conditioned camping, where temperatures drop just enough to guarantee comfortable sleeping bags and perfect hiking weather, making it an ideal escape when lower elevations swelter in summer heat.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering ponderosa pines cast dappled shadows over your campsite and high desert chaparral paints the hillsides in sage and gold. On clear days, snow-capped mountain peaks frame the horizon like a postcard, while the shimmering lake reflects the ever-changing sky. This diverse ecosystem attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters: majestic bald eagles soar overhead, water birds dance along the shoreline, mule deer browse through morning mist, and the occasional coyote's song echoes across the evening air.

Geological RegionDiscover a natural wonderland where the majestic San Bernardino Mountains cradle Silverwood Lake in their scenic foothills, creating a unique transition zone where mountain meets desert. Here, fragrant ponderosa pine forests gradually give way to resilient high desert chaparral, forming a tapestry of diverse habitats that showcase Southern California's remarkable ecological diversity. This geological crossroads offers campers the rare opportunity to experience multiple ecosystems within a single adventure.

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 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8persons maximum per family campsite.

Groups

Group campsites accommodate up to 120 people and 30 vehicles at Valle, Barranca, and Rio sites. Miller Canyon group campsites accommodate up to 40 people and 20 vehicles.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes separate sections for tent camping, RVs, and group sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is subject to capacity limits during peak summer days.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through ReserveCalifornia.com under applicable rules.

AccessibilityAccessible tent sites are available at Old Mesa Campground, and accessible RV sites are provided at New Mesa Campground.

Site SizeGroup campsites accommodate up to 120 people and 30 vehicles at Valle, Barranca, and Rio sites. Miller Canyon group campsites are smaller, accommodating up to 40 people and 20 vehicles.

PrivacyGroup campsites may offer limited privacy due to their design accommodating large groups. Specific privacy levels are not explicitly mentioned.

Total Campsites136 campsites

Recommended SitesArrive early during peak summer days to secure parking and preferred spots.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Silverwood Lake SRA Group Campground offers a broad spectrum of recreational activities suited for diverse interests, including hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The Pacific Crest Trail runs through the area, making it ideal for hikers. Lifeguard-manned beaches offer swimming opportunities, while anglers can fish for species such as trout and largemouth bass.

HikingHiking trails like the Pacific Crest Trail pass through the area, offering stunning views and varied terrains suitable for all skill levels.

FishingFishing is a popular activity, with species such as trout, striped bass, and catfish available for anglers. However, fishing is prohibited in designated swimming areas.

SwimmingTwo lifeguard-manned beaches, Sawpit Beach and Cleghorn Beach, are available for swimming. These areas are marked with buoys for safety.

BikingThe Silverwood Lake Marina Trail and other bike trails provide opportunities for biking enthusiasts to explore scenic paths along the lake.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to mule deer, bald eagles, and various bird species, offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Beach activitiesBeach activities, including swimming and picnicking, are available. Visitors can use designated picnic areas.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsIncreased bear sightings have been reported, especially in Miller Canyon. Safety guidelines for bear encounters are provided.

Active AlertsThe park is open, with no current advisories as of 12/13/2024.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed only in designated fire rings; restrictions may apply during dry weather.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services contact numbers include the general park office at (760) 389-2281 and the campground office at (760) 389-2303. Closest emergency facilities are not explicitly listed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and campers are encouraged to remove all trash to park-provided dumpsters before leaving their campsites.

Water FeaturesSilverwood Lake, formed by a 249-foot dam, offers swimming beaches and boating facilities.

Camp HostCamp hosts are available year-round, providing firewood sales and additional support.

Weather at Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground

Reviews

4.4

363 reviews

Recommended

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews suggest that the campground offers excellent amenities for group camping, with convenient fire rings, picnic tables, and flush toilets. Some users noted the lack of privacy and running water at Miller Canyon Group Campsites.

Review Summaries

Based on 363 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciate accessible flush toilets, potable water availability, and coin-operated showers at certain group sites. Fire rings and picnic tables add to the camping experience.

Based on 363 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of running water and showers at Miller Canyon Group Campsites is a common concern. Some reviews also mention a lack of privacy in group camping areas.

Based on 363 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure a good campsite and bringing additional water if staying at Miller Canyon Group Campsites.

Based on 363 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months offer unique experiences such as bald eagle tours, while summer provides ideal conditions for beach activities, swimming, and hiking.

Based on 363 reviews

Camper Quotes

'The group campsites are spacious and well-equipped with fire rings and picnic tables.' 'The lack of showers at Miller Canyon was inconvenient for our group.' 'Flush toilets and potable water were a...

Based on 363 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews highlight Valle, Barranca, and Rio as having better amenities compared to Miller Canyon Group Campsites.

Based on 363 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible facilities like tent sites at Old Mesa Campground and RV sites at New Mesa Campground received positive reviews.

Based on 363 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash. Some campers noted that dogs are not allowed on beaches or in the water.

Based on 363 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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