Camping near Badger, California centers around the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with many sites situated at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. Winter snow typically closes higher-elevation campgrounds from late fall through spring, while summer temperatures reach comfortable 70-80°F daytime highs. The area's unique geology features dramatic granite formations alongside ancient sequoia groves, creating distinctive camping environments not found elsewhere.
What to do
Creek exploration: Potwisha Campground offers excellent water features for hot days. "There is a swimming hole with ancient petroglyphs and acorn grinding holes right across the street," reports one camper about Potwisha Campground.
Hiking to sequoia groves: The 4-mile round trip Muir Grove trail from Dorst Creek Campground leads to secluded giant trees. "Muir Grove is a hidden gem of a hike to a serene grove of sequoias, accessed at the end of the campground near the group sites. Fairly easy 4 miles round trip, hiked with 6 children, youngest hiker is 6; well worth it!" notes a Dorst Creek visitor.
Winter camping: Unlike most area campgrounds that close seasonally, Azalea Campground offers winter options. "We decided to come in the off season in February and we got lucky with weather. Low tonight is only supposed to be in the upper 30s. Very quiet but some sledding and hiking activity close by... Plus, only $10 a night!" reports a winter camper.
What campers like
Granite water features: Upper Stony Creek Campground offers unique water play opportunities. "This place was so magical... hugging the creek, hidden by gigantic boulders. This campground has a wonderful forest/mountain atmosphere, tumbling water for white noise, wildlife, granite slides, pools of blue water, trout fishing, and the best tasting drinking water I've ever had in my life," enthuses one visitor.
Laundry access: Some campgrounds offer practical amenities for extended stays. "From Facebook review on Feb 26, 2020 by George K: 'The best thing about Sequoia RV Park is the couple who manage it. Add to this the full range of services, easily accessible and level sites, an onsite laundry and showers, free WiFi and FREE firewood, then you have a good picture of what awaits you.'"
Quiet wildlife watching: Several campgrounds offer peaceful observation opportunities. At Dorst Creek Campground, "Surrounded by trees and wildlife, we were visited by deer and entertained by a family of quails as we sat around our fire," shares one camper.
What you should know
Heat differences by elevation: Lower elevation campgrounds can get extremely hot in summer. At Potwisha, one camper notes it's "Good access to Sequoia" but "Located directly off the main access road to Sequoia National Park, making it very loud and popular. RV's and big campers with lights and generators."
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campgrounds feature sloped sites requiring preparation. At Lodgepole Campground, "Some notes. Water spigots are only available near the bathrooms. The showers are only at the main visitors center along with the market and laundry. It's a 10 min walk or short drive."
Limited shower facilities: Only certain campgrounds offer showers, and availability varies seasonally. "The closest showers are down the mountain at Stony Creek Village or at Cedar Grove Visitor Center and Village," reports a camper about Azalea Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Three Rivers Hideaway offers accessible river play. "The campsite is for different types of RVs and tent camping. You are next to the Kaweah river. The campsite has clean bathrooms, showers, laundry and even rafting. Camping spots are flat with table and fire rings, and you surrounded by trees."
Educational opportunities: Princess Campground offers learning experiences. "Camp hosts were wonderful and very helpful as road conditions worsened and we had to figure out if we could get out as planned. Restrooms were extremely clean, and well maintained."
Ranger programs: Many campgrounds feature special family activities. At Upper Stony Creek, "The Rangers have a little classroom area where they have Bear Safety talks, trail info, lessons, all for free!" explains one camper.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Different campgrounds have varying generator policies. At Lodgepole, "Generator hours are thankfully enforced" and "The elevation also means it's 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds."
Dump station access: Sunset Campground offers practical amenities for longer stays. "Campground is overall very nice. The campsites come with bear boxes to store your food or other gear that might be odorous. Each site comes with a fire pit with attached grill top that swings off. Some site have electric some don't depending on what you want."
Sizing challenges: Many campgrounds have limited spaces for larger vehicles. At Lodgepole Campground, "Spot 198 is the best for RV's in my opinion, but it only accommodates up to 22ft. If you can fit, it's amazing. It's the closest spot to the river and there is no one around you."
