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Recreation Region: Mono Basin Region

Sawmill Walk-in Campground

Effective beginning 06/04/2025:  This website, and all linked websites under the control of the agency is under review and content may change.

Located near the boundary of the Hoover Wilderness at an elevation of 9800 feet, Sawmill Campground is suited to backpack style camping as you will walk more than a quarter mile on a dirt trail to reach the 12 campsites.  Each site has a table, fire ring, and a food storage locker. Most sites have shade and room for up to two tents. Nearby Lee Vining Creek is the only water source, there is no piped water. Trash must be packed out. Two vault toilets are located between sites 8 and 9. 

Hiking beyond the campground is day use only as you will enter into a research area. The Harvey Monroe Hall Natural Area has historical records to compare to current research for effects of climate effects at high elevation. Please leave no trace and minimize impacts by staying on trails.

Reservations

No reservations. self-register at campground.

General Information

Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

Active bear area, bear boxes are provided and must be used (typical bear box size 48" x 30" x 36").

Overnight Use:
Single Site: $25 per night
Additional Vehicle Fee: $10 per vehicle per night

Dogs must be leashed in all developed recreation sites.

visitor center building

Address: 1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541
Phone: (760) 647-3044
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (passes & permits available on Sunday and Monday only 9:00 am - 5:00 p.m.)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 37.955941

Longitude: -119.266702

Elevation

9800'

Directions

From US 395 at Lee Vining, go west on CA 120, then north on Saddlebag Lake Road- Forest Road 04

Parking

There are 15 overnight parking spaces at the campground entrance from Saddlebag Road.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Restrooms are available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Picnic Tables

Picnic tables are available at this site.

Last updated July 7, 2025