Within Inyo National Forest, Sawmill Cut Off provides free dispersed camping along forest roads near Mammoth Lakes. This US Forest Service area allows campers to find their own spots among the trees, with multiple turnoffs available for larger rigs up to 30 feet.
Access requires driving past established campgrounds to reach the various pullouts and informal sites scattered throughout the area. Thomas K. notes the location comes "with mountain biking trails throughout," making it popular with cyclists exploring the surrounding forest roads. Cell service reaches most spots, and pets can accompany campers to these wooded sites.
Recent visitors report some areas may have seasonal restrictions due to ongoing construction projects, so scouting multiple turnoffs helps ensure finding an available spot. The dispersed nature means no facilities or defined sites, requiring self-sufficient camping gear. For those seeking more amenities, established campgrounds like Old Shady Rest Campground and Pine Glen operate nearby with standard facilities.
The forest setting attracts campers looking for a no-cost base camp while exploring the Eastern Sierra region.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSawmill cut off is located in California near Mammoth Lakes
Coordinates
37.65938633 N
118.95581697 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 users
AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/20/26
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GGood Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 3 users
- AT&T5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/20/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Pets
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Sawmill cut off needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 5 hrs 12 min from Visalia, CA
- 5 hrs 20 min from Hanford, CA
- 5 hrs 21 min from Merced, CA
- 5 hrs 42 min from Fresno, CA
