About Sawtooth Canyon Campground
Overview Sawtooth Canyon Campground, also know by its nickname “New Jack City,” is located approximately 3 miles west of California Highway 247 and 20 mile south of Barstow, California. In this “Limited” use area there are many different recreation activities: camping, wildlife viewing, hunting, rock climbing, and picnicking. The name "New Jack City" is the most widely used name and originates for the rock climbing community who use the area. However, the historic name for the canyon is “Traer Agua” which means “bring water’. "Sawtooth Canyon” is derived from the resemblance between the ridge line and the outline of a saw blade. There are not open routes of travel in this campground area. OHV vehicles must be trailered in and trailered out, there is not a staging area. Sawtooth Canyon is designated multiple and “Limited” vehicle use. Recreation management guidelines for “Limited” use provides lower intensity, carefully controlled activity to ensure minimal damage to soil, vegetation, wildlife, scenic values, and air quality. Know Before You Go OHV riding is prohibited in Sawtooth, this is not a OHV Recreational riding area. Tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Bring sufficient water, food, clothing, equipment, and first aid supplies for your activity. Weather extremes and poisonous snakes are desert hazards common to this area. Avoid low-lying areas during storms and remember that rain upstream can cause flooding even though it is not raining in the immediate area. Weather: The area is hot and arid, with summer high temperatures ranging from 100 to 120 degrees F. Winter low temperatures may drop below freezing with highs in the 70's. Typical of the desert, winds are frequent and strong, and humidity is generally low. Food, Fuel and Necessities: Food, fuel and most necessities are available in Barstow. Cellular phone service is not reliable in all locations. Camping and Fees Campgrounds are on a first come first serve basis. No reservations
How to Get There
Sawtooth Canyon Campground, also know by it’s nick name “New Jack City,” is located approximately 3 miles west of California Highway 247 and 20 mile south of Barstow, California.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 9)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Sawtooth Canyon Campground
Heading to Sawtooth Canyon Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Sawtooth Canyon Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Sawtooth Canyon Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/274437) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Sawtooth Canyon Campground?
Sawtooth Canyon Campground, also know by it’s nick name “New Jack City,” is located approximately 3 miles west of California Highway 247 and 20 mile south of Barstow, California.
How do I contact Sawtooth Canyon Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: 760-252-6000.
References & Official Resources