Summary
Sequoia National Park represents one of the most remarkable natural landscapes in North America. Located in California, adjacent to Kings Canyon National Park, it serves as an ideal destination for adventure travelers.
This national park is renowned for housing the largest tree globally, the General Sherman Tree. It encompasses hundreds of thousands of sequoia trees, each appearing more picturesque than the last.
Many visitors opt to camp either within the national park or its vicinity. Others prefer to embark on a road trip through this lush area of California in recreational vehicles (RVs). Numerous camping sites and RV parks surround Sequoia National Park, with many offering affordable rates.
Some travelers favor the comforts of home after extensive hiking within Sequoia National Park, a sentiment that is understandable. Fortunately, the park is encircled by small towns, each providing several lodging options.
A tour of Sequoia National Park is an excellent opportunity to discover the rugged natural landscapes that California has to offer. The park connects with the Sequoia National Forest to the south, while further beyond Kings Canyon National Park lies Yosemite National Park and Sierra National Forest. It is a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Let’s examine the various accommodations available near Sequoia National Park.
Three Rivers
The unincorporated community of Three Rivers serves as an excellent base for visitors maximizing their time within Sequoia National Park during their journey.
Although modest in size, Three Rivers possesses undeniable character. Welcoming visitors from around the globe daily, the locals are eager to share their stories.
As the entrance to both Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park, Three Rivers features a visitor center managed by friendly locals, offering various knick-knacks and souvenirs.
The Giant Forest Museum lies less than an hour’s drive from Three Rivers, and the route is indeed scenic. The museum showcases exhibits about the ecology of Sequoia National Park along with its historical context and should not be overlooked on arrival or departure from the park.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travelers, Budget Backpackers, Couples, Families, Hikers, Happy Campers, Nature Photographers, Road Trippers, Nature Aficionados.
Neighborhood Highlights: Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, The Giant Forest Museum, General Sherman Tree, Lodgepole Visitor Center, Moro Rock Trail, Horse Creek Campground, Blue Ridge National Wildlife Refuge.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Lazy J Ranch Motel – This highly regarded hotel in Three Rivers features an outdoor swimming pool accompanied by sun loungers and a sunbathing terrace. The property is pet-friendly and provides complimentary parking. Many rooms offer spectacular mountain views.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia King Canyon – Three Rivers – A well-rated hotel providing excellent value. Ideal for straightforward travelers seeking a restful place, this hotel includes coffee machines and complimentary WiFi in each room.
- The River Inn – This inviting option in Three Rivers gives travelers a homely atmosphere. Each room is equipped with a microwave and coffee machine, and complimentary parking is available.
Visalia
The rural city of Visalia serves as a superb base for exploring Sequoia National Park. The community spirit here is very much alive, coupled with a wide range of accommodation choices.
Embodying quintessential rural charm, Visalia appeals to outdoorsy travelers. Numerous parks, such as Blain Park and Visalia Houk Park, provide spaces to relax and unwind, the latter even boasting a children’s play area.
Visalia is particularly family-friendly, featuring numerous playgrounds and a vibrant community. The ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum stands out as a key attraction. This colorful, hands-on museum promises an engaging and educational experience for the entire family, with offerings in science, environment, and arts. It is open daily from 10 am.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travelers, Budget Backpackers, Couples, Families, Hikers, Happy Campers, Nature Photographers, Road Trippers, Tree Enthusiasts, Young Families.
Neighborhood Highlights: Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Giant Forest Museum, General Sherman Tree, ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum, Regal Cinemas Visalia 10, Visalia Fox Theatre, The Vintage Press Restaurante, Jefferson Park, Blain Park, Visalia Houk Park, Visalia Golf Club, Adventure Park.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Visalia Marriott at the Convention Center – Highly regarded, this hotel is conveniently located next to the Convention Center. All guest accommodations include air conditioning and MP3 docking stations, along with flat-screen TVs with cable channels.
- Fairfield Inn by Marriott Visalia Sequoia – A notable choice in Visalia, the hotel offers modern, bright rooms with private ensuite bathrooms, coffee makers, and flat-screen TVs, with free parking on site.
- Holiday Inn Express – Visalia – This outstanding hotel features colorful and stylish rooms with exceedingly comfortable beds. A great breakfast is included with the room rate, and laundry facilities are available for guest use.
Kernville
Tucked away along the Kern River in the Southern Sierra Nevada is the quaint town of Kernville. For travelers seeking to escape well-trodden paths and immerse themselves in rural California, Kernville offers an ideal retreat.
The Kern River flows into Isabella Lake, a beautiful venue perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll or merely dipping one’s toes.
Kernville boasts a charming small-town atmosphere that is quite endearing. The Kern River Brewing Co. serves as the community hub where visitors can enjoy local brews in a relaxed setting.
Being situated within the Sequoia National Forest provides a unique proximity to the woodlands without the need for tent camping. While Kernville may appear remote, it promises rewarding experiences and lasting memories.
The iconic General Sherman Tree can be accessed with ease, making a day trip from Kernville uncomplicated.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travelers, Budget Backpackers, Couples, Families, Hikers, Happy Campers, Nature Photographers, Road Trippers, Tree Enthusiasts, Young Families.
Neighborhood Highlights: Sequoia National Forest, Sequoia National Park, Kern River Brewing Co., Lake Isabella, Piute Peak, Silver City Ghost Town – Bodfish, Heald Peak, Kern Valley Museum, Riverside Park, Kernville Park Recreation Area.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Whispering Pines Lodge Bed and Breakfast – A cozy lodging option, this establishment provides an inviting atmosphere for guests. Some rooms feature views of the creek, and complimentary toiletries are provided in ensuite bathrooms. WiFi access and a BBQ terrace are also available for guests’ enjoyment.
- Kern Riverfront Lodge – This lodge provides a welcoming environment with accessible amenities including a BBQ terrace and swimming pool. Some accommodations offer views of the pool, while others overlook the gardens. Complimentary parking is available for guests.
- The Kern Lodge – This top-rated choice is situated beneath the mountains, allowing guests to enjoy picturesque views while relaxing by the outdoor swimming pool. Amenities include a BBQ area and complimentary WiFi throughout the premises.
Fresno
Fresno is a contemporary city located in San Joaquin Valley. Established in the early 1900s, Fresno caters effectively to the preferences of modern travelers, making it suitable for families and couples alike.
Young families will find Island Waterpark the perfect destination for summer fun, featuring an abundance of water slides and swimming facilities. Additionally, Storyland & Playland, an amusement center nestled closer to downtown Fresno, showcases a Mother-Goose theme with various slides, rides, and climbing frames.
Despite its youth, Fresno boasts historical attractions worth exploring. The Meux Home Museum offers guided tours of an elegant 19th-century mansion, showcasing period details and furnishings.
The Fresno Art Museum is another must-visit destination.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travelers, Art Lovers, Budget Backpackers, City Enthusiasts, Couples, Families, Hikers, Happy Campers, Urban Photographers, Road Trippers, Tree Enthusiasts, Young Families.
Neighborhood Highlights: Sequoia National Park, Sequoia National Forest, Kings Canyon National Park, Meux Home Museum, Storyland & Playland, Island Waterpark, Fresno Art Museum, Fig Tree Gallery, Aztlan Xpressions Gallery, Shinzen Japanese Garden, Forestiere Underground Gardens.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hilton Garden Inn Clovis – This stylish hotel, located on West Shaw Avenue, offers an outdoor pool and various spacious rooms and suites, including kitchenette options. A complimentary breakfast is included in the room rate.
- Residence Inn Fresno – A welcoming hotel located on North Diana Avenue that serves a hot breakfast daily. Guests can also prepare meals in their fully-equipped kitchen, and the facility provides complimentary WiFi and parking.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites Fresno Clovis – A favored choice in Fresno, this hotel facilitates express check-in and check-out, along with complimentary onsite parking and WiFi. Each room is equipped with a coffee maker and mini refrigerator, with breakfast included in most room rates.
Tulare
Located just south of Visalia, the city of Tulare is home to approximately 60,000 residents and maintains a small-town atmosphere. Its proximity to the entrance of Sequoia National Park, coupled with nearby urban conveniences such as supermarkets and chain hotels, presents a balanced experience.
For adventurous road trippers seeking an authentic California city experience, Tulare is an idyllic destination. The absence of overblown tourist attractions and limited lodging options enhance its charm, ultimately allowing visitors to appreciate the true essence of rural California.
Just a 15-minute drive from Tulare lies Visalia’s Adventure Park, making it a family-friendly choice for extended vacations. Visitors will discover numerous attractions within Tulare, offering plentiful opportunities for exploration away from Sequoia National Park.
The renowned General Sherman Tree of Sequoia National Park is less than two hours away by car.
Suitable For: Active Travelers, Adventurous Travelers, Budget Backpackers, Couples, Families, Hikers, Happy Campers, Nature Photographers, Road Trippers, Tree Enthusiasts, Young Families.
Neighborhood Highlights: Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park, Giant Forest Museum, General Sherman Tree, Tulare Golf Course, Tulare Outlets, ImagineU Interactive Children’s Museum, Regal Cinemas Visalia 10, Visalia Fox Theatre, Jefferson Park, Blain Park, Visalia Houk Park, Visalia Golf Club, Adventure Park.
Hotel Recommendations:
- Hampton Inn & Suites Tulare – A leading choice among couples, families, and solo travelers, this hotel features an outdoor swimming pool and sun deck. All accommodations offer WiFi access and ensuite bathrooms.
- La Quinta & Suites Tulare – A noteworthy hotel in Tulare, offering spacious rooms furnished with modern wooden decor. Each room includes a private ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, and complimentary breakfast is available in most room rates.
- Charter Inn and Suites – A popular accommodation in Tulare that meets many travelers’ preferences, featuring contemporary and bright rooms. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool at their leisure, and a hearty breakfast is included in the room rate.
