Sawmill Campground, near Angeles National Forest, is a great choice for those seeking a quiet escape into nature. With its free camping and no reservations required, it’s perfect for spontaneous trips, though you might want to arrive early to snag a good spot.

The campground offers basic amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, but don’t expect much else in terms of facilities. Visitors have noted that the road can be a bit bumpy, so a careful drive is recommended, especially if you're in a 2WD vehicle. As one camper mentioned, “The road is a bit bumpy, but slowly and carefully any car can get there!”

Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful surroundings, with plenty of birds like woodpeckers and blue jays flitting about. The area is also known for its stunning views, although you might need to take a short walk to fully enjoy them. Some campers have enjoyed the peaceful solitude, making it a great spot for those looking to unwind.

If you're up for a little adventure, nearby trails lead to scenic overlooks, and you might even catch a glimpse of the Mojave from certain vantage points. Just keep in mind that nights can get chilly, so pack accordingly. Whether you’re camping solo or with a buddy, Sawmill Campground offers a laid-back atmosphere to enjoy the great outdoors.

5200-foot\_\_elevation. 8 sites. No water. Vault toilets. Campsites are\_\_first come - first served. RV's to 16'.Must access this campground from Pine Canyon Road due to washout on 7N23. Can not access from Old Ridge Route.Please call the Acton Work Center at (661) 269-2808 for information.

Sawmill Campground

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Lake Hughes

The Best Camping Near Lake Hughes, California

There is a pit toilet and trashcans and fire rings here. When I went there was lots of firewood just laying around in piles.

  

There were LOTS of stinging ants so flip-flops/bare feet are out. 

  

Lots of wood peckers here.

The trail up can be rough, I don't recommend taking a car because the road may be washed out.

Free if you have an adventure pass, look out for stinging ants

The road up to the campground is a bit bumpy, So keep a eye out for sharp rocks if you got a 2WD like me. Beautiful area with lots of birds woodpeckers , blue jays, falcons. Restroom is clean so are campsite. But did find beer bottles from previous campers. So Clean up after yourself wild animals do show up. 
Nights get cold and windy up there. Almost had the campground to myself but a couple ended camping far across from me . Everything was cool. Solo Car camping success 🇺🇸😎

Good campground 

The road out there is pretty easy if you come from Lake Hughes. Truck or SUV recommended but 4x4 not required.

I showed up right before sunset and the campsite was empty. A lot of the trees are blackened from the last fire and the new growth hasn't come in yet. Hopefully this spring it'll recover more. Tables were nice and there was a vault toilet but I didn't use it. Someone showed up shortly after sunset but it remained quiet. Fire rings were available and in good shape. Not much else in way of amenities.

The views of Mojave were cool, but you are down in the trees a bit, so it's a little blocked. At 8am, a group of adventure bike riders showed up and were pretty loud. This campsite would be a good place for people on dirt bikes and adventure bikes looking for a place to stay. If you're driving a good distance to get out here though, I'd recommend Red Rock or something with more things to do. There werent any good hiking trails nearby. I did end up driving to Burnt Peak. There is an FAA Navigation Aid up there and gorgeous views of the Gorman/Santa Clarita area. Just don't mess with the equipment. 

I was hoping to disconnect when I went out there and I ended up with decent 5G service with Verizon... So take that how you want.

Ultimately, good for a night if you're just trying to get away but I think better could be found. 

A decent place for the night

Really nice staying! The road is a bit bumpy, but slowly and carefully any car can get there! 

Nice and quiet

Seems to be a good spot to find yourself some alone time. Just myself so far. Got some decent views but you have to walk a bit to see them

Decent 

Having to find a spot kind of late at night after other spots were full pretty level spot overlooking a meadow and review of the sunset roads a little rough getting back in there used four-wheel drive pulling a teardrop

Photos of Sawmill Campground

Real photos from real campers