Summary
For camping in the California mountains among towering trees, there are few locations better than Sequoia and Kings Canyon, the twin National Parks situated in the southern Sierra Nevadas. The key to an enjoyable experience is finding the campground that is “just right.”
However, locating that ideal spot can be more complex than expected. This is primarily due to the existence of two national parks adjacent to one another, alongside campgrounds within the national forest. Additionally, various government agencies provide camping sites, not to mention privately-owned campgrounds and camping areas located outside the parks.
Consequently, utilize the tips and strategies below to navigate your options effectively.
Campgrounds in and Around Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
All national park campgrounds charge a nightly fee. Most sites are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, although some can be reserved. During Saturday nights in July and August, as well as all three-day weekends, it is advisable to have a reservation to avoid the disappointment of fully booked sites. If unprepared, Lodgepole Campground may have a few open sites, but this cannot be relied upon.
If you were unsuccessful in securing your desired reservation, do not be discouraged. Try utilizing the Campnab website. For a minor fee, they will monitor the reservation system for up to four months, reporting openings and notifying you when they occur. Depending on your chosen service level, checks can be done every five minutes to an hour.
Facilities at some campgrounds include flush toilets and RV dump stations, whereas others cater exclusively to tents and may only offer pit toilets. None have showers, yet pay showers are available at Lodgepole Village and Cedar Grove Village, alongside limited hours at Grant Grove. Explore national park campground locations and their facilities.
It is important to note that RV travelers will not find hookups at any national park campgrounds, although some do offer dump stations. Refer to the park’s website for information on open campgrounds.
For backpackers, camping is permitted in wilderness areas within the park, but a wilderness permit is required.
Camping Nearby But Outside the Parks
The USDA Forest Service oversees over 50 developed campgrounds within the Sequoia National Forest and Giant Sequoia National Monument. These campsites vary, with some accommodating RVs and featuring toilets and running water, while others provide a more primitive experience.
Fees differ, with several of the most basic sites being free. The camping season generally spans from late-May through mid-October; however, a few campgrounds stay open year-round. View a complete list of campgrounds with descriptions and reservation information.
Additional camping options are available at Sequoia National Forest’s Hume Lake Ranger District.
Reservations For Federal Sites Anywhere
Reservations can be made for campgrounds in both the national parks and Sequoia National Forest, along with other U.S. Government-managed locations via a single website. It is possible to book up to six months in advance and even up to a year for group sites accommodating seven or more individuals.
To initiate, search for “SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS” at recreation.gov. Select the Campgrounds option to view all available sites, including those that do not accept reservations.
The interactive map is beneficial; however, be cautious when interpreting distances. Locations that appear to be adjacent may not be due to the mountainous terrain. For instance, Onion Valley is depicted as only 5 miles from Cedar Grove, yet it requires a 360-mile drive around the mountains to reach it.
Private Campgrounds Near Three Rivers
Located just outside the park’s southern gateway, the town of Three Rivers hosts several campgrounds and RV parks, including:
Sequoia RV Ranch: This location offers RV sites suitable for various recreational vehicles, with some sites positioned along the river. Additionally, trailers are available for rent.
Three Rivers Hideaway: Home to over 40 RV and tent sites, along with three cabins, this hideaway claims to be the closest RV park to Sequoia.
Kaweah Park Resort: Situated near Lake Kaweah, this resort provides both RV hookups and tent sites, located slightly west of Three Rivers.
Lemon Cove-Sequoia Campground: Found on Highway 198 near the small town of Lemon Cove.
Visalia/Sequoia National Park KOA is a bit further west of the nearest entrance gate, about an hour’s drive away. It is a well-equipped park offering ample spaces and amenities.
High Sierra Camps at Sequoia
Bearpaw Meadow Camp is a backcountry tent hotel with stunning views of Kaweah Gorge and the Great Western Divide. It provides hikers with linens and meals, operating only during the summer months. The camp is located 11.3 miles from the trailhead at Crescent Meadow, with the average hiking time being approximately seven hours. Reservations can be made online.
Sequoia High Sierra Camp offers a more luxurious experience often referred to as “glamping” (glamorous camping). Their 36 canvas cabins combine the adventure of wilderness camping with the comforts of home. Access to the camp requires an all-day hike of 11 miles along a clearly marked backcountry trail or a mere 1.5-mile hike from a nearby trailhead. This camp operates from July through October.
