Alerts
  • Highway 180 Access To Cedar Grove Area of Kings Canyon National Park Closed For the Season
  • Mineral King Road Is Closed For the Season
  • Crescent Meadow Road and Moro Rock Loop Road Closed to Vehicles Due to Snow

Find the Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park Today

Sebastian Whitmore

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites, Campgrounds in sequoia

Sequoia National Park is a dreamland for people who love nature. Towering trees, clear skies, and peaceful spots make it perfect for camping. Picking the right place to set up a tent or park an RV can turn a trip into an unforgettable outdoor experience.

This guide explores the best camping site in Sequoia National Park. Each site has special features, making it a great choice for different types of campers.

7 Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park Today

1. Lodgepole Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Lodgepole Campground is one of the most visited sites in Sequoia National Park. It sits near the General Sherman Tree and the Giant Forest, making it easy to explore famous attractions. Visitors can hike to Tokopah Falls or stop by the Lodgepole Visitor Center.

Wildlife like deer and black bears are often seen in this area. Families and hikers prefer this campground due to its central location and facilities.

  • Location – Situated in the Giant Forest, near the General Sherman Tree, Lodgepole Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds in Sequoia National Park. It lies at an elevation of 6,700 feet (2,042 meters).
  • Sites Available – 214 campsites, including those for tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 42 feet).
  • Amenities – Flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and a dump station. Lodgepole Village offers additional services like a market, showers, and laundry facilities.
  • Nearby Attractions – General Sherman Tree, Tokopah Falls, Giant Forest Museum, and numerous hiking trails.
  • Best For – Families, hikers, and visitors looking to explore major attractions within Sequoia National Park.

2. Dorst Creek Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Dorst Creek Campground is a peaceful camping site in Sequoia National Park, surrounded by tall trees. The location is between Lodgepole and Grant Grove, making it easy to visit places like Muir Grove Trail and Big Trees Trail. Campers get basic facilities, including flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.

Several hiking trails start nearby, making it a great choice for those who love outdoor adventures. Black bears are often seen, so all food must be kept in bear-proof lockers. The shaded campsites and quiet surroundings make it ideal for families and nature lovers.

  • Location – Located between Lodgepole and Grant Grove along the Generals Highway, Dorst Creek sits at a cooler elevation surrounded by lodgepole pines and red firs.
  • Sites Available – 204 sites for tents, trailers, and RVs up to 35 feet.
  • Amenities – Flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and easy access to nearby facilities in Grant Grove.
  • Nearby Attractions – Grant Grove (home to the General Grant Tree), Panoramic Point, Muir Grove Trail, and Big Trees Trail.
  • Best For – Visitors wanting easy access to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, as well as families looking for a shaded, peaceful environment.

3. Buckeye Flat Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Buckeye Flat Campground is a small, peaceful camping site in Sequoia National Park, located in the park’s foothills. Campers can enjoy beautiful views of the Middle Fork Kaweah River and easy access to trails, such as Marble Falls. The campground offers basic amenities, including drinking water, flush toilets, and fire rings. Its quiet, scenic setting makes it perfect for a relaxing camping experience. Due to limited space, it’s recommended to reserve early, particularly during peak season.

  • Location – Nestled in the foothills of Sequoia National Park, near the Middle Fork Kaweah River, Buckeye Flat Campground sits at an elevation of 2,800 feet (853 meters).
  • Sites Available – 27 sites designated for tent camping only.
  • Amenities – Flush toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers.
  • Nearby Attractions – Giant Forest, Hospital Rock, Marble Falls Trail, and the Kaweah River.
  • Best For – Visitors looking for a quieter, lower-elevation camping experience, especially in the warmer months.

4. Atwell Mill Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Atwell Mill Campground is a peaceful camping site in Sequoia National Park, offering a quiet experience away from crowds. The campground provides pit toilets, food storage lockers, and fire rings, but there is no drinking water available, so campers need to bring their own. Nearby trails, such as Eagle Lake and White Chief, attract adventure enthusiasts. This camping site is perfect for those who want to enjoy nature in a calm and remote setting. The drive to Atwell Mill may be winding, but it offers breathtaking views along the way.

  • Location – Located in the remote Mineral King Valley at an elevation of 6,500 feet (1,981 meters), Atwell Mill offers a peaceful camping experience.
  • Sites Available – 21 tent-only sites, with two group sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Amenities– Pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers. There is no drinking water, so campers must bring their own.
  • Nearby Attractions – Mineral King Valley, Eagle Lake, White Chief Trail, and high-altitude lakes and meadows.
  • Best For – Hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers looking for a more remote and tranquil environment.

5. Cold Springs Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Cold Springs Campground sits deep in Mineral King Valley, offering a true wilderness experience. The campground has pit toilets, picnic tables, and food storage lockers, but no drinking water is available. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer, marmots, and bears often seen nearby. Its remote setting makes it perfect for those seeking adventure and solitude.

  • Location – Located in the Mineral King area, Cold Springs Campground is at an elevation of 7,500 feet (2,286 meters), offering a true wilderness experience.
  • Sites Available – 40 tent-only sites.
  • Amenities – Pit toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage lockers. No drinking water is available, so campers need to bring their own.
  • Nearby Attractions – Sawtooth Pass, Franklin Lakes, and high-altitude hiking trails.
  • Best For – Backpackers and those seeking solitude in a more rugged and less-crowded part of the park.

6. Potwisha Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Sunset Campground is a spacious campsite near Grant Grove, making it an excellent choice for visitors exploring both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Surrounded by pine trees, it offers a peaceful environment with plenty of shade. Campers can enjoy drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground is also close to the General Grant Tree, one of the largest trees in the world. It’s a great option for families and large groups seeking a quiet and enjoyable camping experience at the best camping site in Sequoia National Park.

  • Location – Situated at an elevation of 2,100 feet (640 meters) along the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River, Potwisha Campground is approximately four miles (6.4 kilometers) from the Ash Mountain entrance to Sequoia National Park.
  • Sites Available – The campground offers 42 sites suitable for tents and RVs up to 22 feet in length.
  • Amenities – Facilities include picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Please note that there are no showers available at this campground.
  • Nearby Attractions – Potwisha Campground is within a 45-minute drive from the Giant Forest, home to the largest trees on Earth. Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, and the Congress Trail are also located in the Giant Forest area, offering numerous opportunities for exploration.
  • Best For – This campground is ideal for visitors seeking a lower-elevation camping experience with easy access to the park’s main attractions.

7. Sunset Campground

Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites
Best Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia National Park, Camping Spots in Sequoia National Park, Camping Site in Sequoia, Sequoia National Park camping sites

Sunset Campground is a popular place to stay near Grant Grove, making it a great choice for those visiting both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Tall pine trees surround the area, providing shade and a quiet atmosphere. Campers get access to drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The famous General Grant Tree, one of the largest trees on Earth, is only a short drive away. For families and large groups looking for the best camping site in Sequoia National Park, this peaceful location is a perfect fit.

  • Location – Located near Grant Grove Village in Kings Canyon National Park, Sunset Campground is situated in an open stand of evergreens at an elevation of 6,500 feet (1,981 meters).
  • Sites Available – The campground features 157 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Group camping is also available.
  • Amenities – Facilities include picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms, and bear-proof food storage lockers. Please note that there are no showers available at this campground.
  • Nearby Attractions – Sunset Campground is a short 1/4 mile walk to Grant Grove Village and the Visitor’s Center. From here, it’s approximately 1 mile to the General Grant Tree, one of the world’s largest living trees.
  • Best For – This campground is ideal for visitors looking to explore the Grant Grove area, including the General Grant Tree and other giant sequoias.

Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping in Sequoia National Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it’s essential to adhere to the park’s camping rules and regulations.

1. Campground Reservations and Fees

  • Reservations: During peak seasons, most campgrounds require reservations. It’s advisable to book your site in advance through Recreation.gov. Some campgrounds may offer first-come, first-served sites during off-peak times.
  • Fees: A nightly fee is needed for each campsite. Most single sites allow up to six people, but some may have different limits or special areas for larger groups.

2. Check-In and Check-Out Times

  • Check-In: Starts at 12:00 PM. If a camper does not arrive by noon on the second day of their booking, the site may be given to someone else.
  • Check-Out: Must be completed before 12:00 PM. Campers should clean their site and remove all personal belongings by this time.

3. Campground Conduct

  • Quiet Hours: Usually set between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM. Keep noise levels low during these hours to respect others.
  • Generators: Use may be limited to certain hours. Check specific campground rules for details.

4. Food Storage and Wildlife Safety

  • Bear-Resistant Containers: All food, scented items, and trash must be stored in secure containers or food lockers to avoid attracting animals.
  • Never Leave Food Unattended: Keep all food within reach or properly stored at all times to help protect wildlife and campers.

5. Campfire Regulations

  • Fire Restrictions: Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills. Always check for fire restrictions before setting up a fire, as rules can change based on conditions.
  • Extinguishing Fires: Before leaving or going to sleep, fully put out the fire. Pour water over it, stir the ashes, and check that they are cold to the touch.

6. Waste Disposal

  • Trash: Carry out all trash and use designated bins. Leaving food scraps or litter can attract wildlife and disturb the natural surroundings.
  • Human Waste: Use restrooms where available. In remote areas, bury waste at least six inches deep and 100 feet away from water, trails, and campsites.

7. Pet Regulations

Pets: Allowed in certain areas but must always be on a leash no longer than six feet. Pets are not allowed on trails or in wilderness zones. Owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.

8. Vehicle Restrictions

Parking: Park only in marked spots with all four wheels on pavement. Do not block roads or park on plants. Some campgrounds have limits on vehicle size, so check before arrival.

9. Group Size Limits

Campsites: Standard sites usually hold up to six people. Special group sites are available for larger gatherings. Groups traveling together should stay at least half a mile apart if their total size exceeds the allowed limit.

10. Environmental Considerations

  • Protecting Water Sources: Camping is not allowed within 25 feet of water sources. Between 25 and 100 feet, camping is only permitted at already established sites. This helps keep the water clean and protects natural habitats.
  • Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace guidelines to minimize impact on nature. Stay on marked trails, avoid picking plants, and respect wildlife.

Final Thoughts

Sequoia National Park is a great place for outdoor camping. Each area has its own beauty, offering visitors stunning views, adventure, and a quiet setting. A camping site in Sequoia National Park provides an unforgettable experience, with options to set up a tent under the stars or park an RV near the tall trees.

Planning ahead, following safety rules, and caring for nature will help make the trip even more enjoyable.

FAQ’s

Do I need a reservation for camping in Sequoia National Park?

Yes, most campgrounds require reservations, especially in peak summer months. It is recommended to book in advance through Recreation.gov. A few campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites, but availability can be limited.

Are campfires allowed in Sequoia National Park campgrounds?

Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings at certain campgrounds. However, fire restrictions may apply during dry seasons due to wildfire risks. Always check the latest fire regulations before your trip.

How can I protect my food from bears while camping?

Use the bear-proof food storage lockers provided at each campsite. Never leave food or scented items in your tent or car. Hanging food on trees is not allowed, as bears can easily reach them.

Are pets allowed in Sequoia National Park campgrounds?

Yes, pets are allowed in campgrounds but must always be on a leash no longer than six feet. However, they are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or in park buildings.

Is there cell service at the campgrounds in Sequoia National Park?

Cell service is very limited in most areas of the park, including campgrounds. It is recommended to inform family or friends of your plans in advance and be prepared for a digital detox.

Can I bring an RV or trailer to the campgrounds?

Yes, several campgrounds accommodate RVs and trailers, including Lodgepole and Potwisha Campgrounds. However, some sites have length restrictions, so it’s important to check specific campground details before booking.

Can I go fishing while camping in Sequoia National Park?

Yes, fishing is allowed in certain areas, including the Kaweah River and nearby lakes. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers aged 16 and older.

What should I do if I encounter a bear while camping?

If you see a bear, stay calm, make yourself look bigger, and back away slowly while speaking firmly. Never run or turn your back. If a bear approaches your campsite, make loud noises to scare it away and alert park rangers.

About the author
Sebastian Whitmore
Sebastian Whitmore is a dedicated travel writer with a passion for national parks. His love for nature and adventure drives him to share insightful guides and tips about Sequoia National Park, inspiring others to explore its majestic beauty.

Leave a Comment