Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground
00 review13990 Sawpit Canyon Rd, Hesperia, CA, 92345
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground
$10.00 - $350.00
Campsite Fees
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
Fees range from $10 per night for hike-and-bike sites to $350 per night for group campsites. Additional vehicles cost $10 per vehicle.
About this 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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible tent sites are available at Old Mesa Campground, and accessible RV sites are provided at New Mesa Campground.
Sites 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.
Sites PrivacyGroup campsites may offer limited privacy due to their design accommodating large groups. Specific privacy levels are not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites136 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early during peak summer days to secure parking and preferred spots.
Best CampsitesAccessible tent campsites include #26, #49, #66, #77, and #80. Accessible RV sites include #98, #117, and #128.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights from April 1 – September 30
- 30 consecutive nights from October 1 – March 31.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes separate sections for tent camping, RVs, and group sites.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round for most campgrounds; Miller Canyon Group Campsites are open May 1 – Sep 30.
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.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
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.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsEducational programs such as Junior Ranger activities and campfire talks are offered in summer. Winter bald eagle tours are available from January to March.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in designated fire rings; restrictions may apply during dry weather.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsIncreased 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.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency 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.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and campers are encouraged to remove all trash to park-provided dumpsters before leaving their campsites.
Proximity to water featuresSilverwood Lake, formed by a 249-foot dam, offers swimming beaches and boating facilities.
Common complaintsParking capacity issues during peak summer weekends are common, along with congestion in boat launch areas and waterways.
HostCamp hosts are available year-round, providing firewood sales and additional support.
Campground Map
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.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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.
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.
Campers recommend arriving early to secure a good campsite and bringing additional water if staying at Miller Canyon Group Campsites.
Winter months offer unique experiences such as bald eagle tours, while summer provides ideal conditions for beach activities, swimming, and hiking.
'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...
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Reviews highlight Valle, Barranca, and Rio as having better amenities compared to Miller Canyon Group Campsites.
Accessible facilities like tent sites at Old Mesa Campground and RV sites at New Mesa Campground received positive reviews.
Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash. Some campers noted that dogs are not allowed on beaches or in the water.
Last updated July 31, 2025