Tent camping opportunities near California Hot Springs occupy a variety of elevations from 4,200 to 7,000 feet in Sequoia National Forest. Temperature variations can be significant, with daytime summer highs in the 80s dropping to nighttime lows in the 40s even during peak season. Most dispersed camping areas require campers to navigate dirt roads with varying degrees of accessibility depending on vehicle clearance.
What to do
Creek swimming access: At Camping area No. 3, visitors can enjoy clear water perfect for cooling off. A camper noted, "The water is super clear and nice! We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming."
Wildlife observation: Peppermint Campground offers excellent opportunities to spot diverse forest animals throughout the day and night. Visitors report seeing "lots of wildlife; owls, squirrels, foxes, coyotes, bears and lots of footprints of small game."
Fishing for trout: Several creeks near Belknap Campground provide good fishing opportunities. A visitor shared, "Husband caught a nice trout" while camping at this location.
Swimming holes: Belknap Campground features accessible areas for swimming along the Middle Fork of the Tule River. A camper described, "River runs through the camp and there's a little swimming hole."
What campers like
Natural water soundscapes: Many campsites offer peaceful creek and river sounds that enhance sleep. At Lower Peppermint Campground, "There is a creek right behind your camp and it's so nice hearing it at night."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain skies provide exceptional night viewing at many sites. At Evans Road Hidden Camp, campers enjoy "Beautiful views, flowers, fresh air... Lots of birds, peepers, and late night owls."
Secluded camping spots: For those seeking privacy, Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park offers isolation. A visitor confirmed, "If you want privacy this is it. You are definitely alone."
Proximity to giant sequoias: Several campgrounds provide quick access to sequoia groves. At Belknap Campground, "There are a handful of giant sequoia's in the middle of the campground."
What you should know
Limited resources: Most dispersed camping areas near California Hot Springs require complete self-sufficiency. At Dispersed Camp, "BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you."
Bear activity: Bears regularly visit campsites throughout the area. At Limestone Campground, a camper warned, "Beautiful spot, but Bears visit at night. Keep food packed and ice chests put in vehicle."
Road conditions: Several access roads require vehicles with clearance and sometimes 4WD capability. At Dispersed Camp, one visitor noted, "It's all dust roads so AWD would be best, but we did make it in our van. Slid backwards down the hill kicking up dust a couple of times trying to get out the next day."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close due to weather or maintenance issues. Hobo Campground has been affected by bridge damage: "Due to a bridge wash out and no funds for repair, this beloved campground is closed."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Family-friendly water areas exist at several locations. Belknap Campground offers "a decent swimming hole" that's accessible for children.
Site selection for river safety: At Limestone Campground, "The lower camp spots are located at the bottom of the hill (easier access to the river, safer for children)."
Bear box availability: Some established campgrounds provide bear-resistant storage. At Belknap, "each campsite has a bear locker," making food storage easier for families.
Cleanliness factors: Vault toilets vary in quality across campgrounds. At Belknap, visitors appreciate "the cleanest vault toilets I've used in CA."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most camping areas have restricted access for larger vehicles. When visiting Dispersed Camp, a camper noted it "would have been another story if it had rained" when trying to navigate their van on dirt roads.
Limited hookup options: No electrical, sewer or water connections exist at most sites in the area. At Limestone Campground, facilities include "vault toilets. Both trash and recycling collection bins are available (not the case for nearby day use areas or dispersed camping)."
Leveling challenges: Many sites feature uneven terrain. At Limestone, "The paved pad is above the area with the table and fire ring," requiring strategic vehicle placement.
