Princess Campground sits at a higher elevation of 6,800 feet in Sequoia National Forest, maintaining cooler summer temperatures compared to lower areas. The campground offers nearly 100 sites spread across three large loops established where old-growth sequoias once stood before logging operations between 1901-1908. Visitors can find camping options that accommodate everything from tents to larger RVs throughout the area.
What to do
Visit Hume Lake for swimming: Located just 3 miles from Princess Campground, Hume Lake provides an excellent day trip for water activities. "Lake hume was only 3 miles away, and other great points of interested we approx 12 miles away. This was a great location, clean, well kept and the space between the sites was very good," shares Laura A.
Hike the Indian Basin Meadow Trail: This paved interpretive trail near Princess Campground takes you through a meadow filled with seasonal wildflowers and educational signs. "Clean, quite, and right below Hume lake. Awesome walking trail right outside of camp through a beautiful meadow," notes Patrick M. about the accessible nature experience.
Explore sequoia stumps throughout the campground: The campground features massive stumps from logged sequoias that provide unique historical perspective and natural playground features. "We enjoyed the walk through the Meadow trail and interpretive signs to learn about the history of the big trees," explains Allyson K., highlighting the educational aspects of exploring the area.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forest setting provides excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We stayed at sites 132 & 133 with a group of 12 people and had plenty of room for our group," says Darrin L. about Sunset Campground, adding that "hearing a car alarm going off over and over can really take away from your wilderness experience."
Morning and evening nature experiences: Campers appreciate the natural cycles of the forest, particularly around dawn and dusk. "We were in campsite 101, which had a spectacular sunset. It was on the edge of camp and very convenient to be able to walk to Azalea Campground, Grant Grove and the General Grant Tree," mentions Elise F., highlighting the connection to nearby attractions.
Night sky viewing: The higher elevation and forest location create excellent conditions for astronomy enthusiasts. "After having 10 land on the cutting board while cutting up cheese, I just finished as quick as possible and we dove into the tent to eat," shares Erin S. about Dinkey Creek Campground, noting the yellowjacket challenges that sometimes accompany the outdoor experience.
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Always check current fire regulations before your trip. "Absolute favorite campground, you can hear the river all day long. The site we got was really big. Restrooms are clean, the only down thing you can't have fire during the high risk seasons for wild fires," explains Loomy A. from Sentinel Campground.
Bear safety is essential: All campgrounds in the area require proper food storage. "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. We stayed at number 107 which was near the top of the hill and was about a 150 foot walk to the edge where you could see the sunset over the valley," reports John W.
Cell service is limited: Most campgrounds have minimal to no cellular coverage. "This was a great location, clean, well kept and the space between the sites was very good. And best of there was no cell service making it easier to take the time and enjoy nature," mentions Laura A. about Princess Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with creek access: Children particularly enjoy playing in the shallow creeks. "We spend Memorial Day weekend at this nice campground at Morning Star site 26. Beautiful situated next to a little water flow and a big stump the kids played on," shares Kirsten I. about Princess Campground.
Consider campsite location carefully: Some sites offer more privacy and play space than others. "The first time I camped here was the first week of October in 2016. It was a whole lot colder than I had thought, but luckily we just put some stones around our fire and wrapped it up in wool to keep at our feet and around our bodies when we did go to bed," explains Azizah T. about Camp Edison.
Pack for variable temperatures: Even summer nights can be cold at higher elevations. "The site was nice, right on the lake with nice mountain views. Sites were generally not level as it is situated on the hill down to the lake," notes Connor N. about Horse Creek Campground, highlighting the importance of proper site selection.
Tips from RVers
Select appropriate sites for larger rigs: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "We have a 35 foot 5th wheel and the spots we like here are 37, 50-52, 38-41. We haven't stayed in any other sites so I'm not sure how they are for bigger trailers," advises Tonya C. about Wishon Village RV Resort, one of the luxury glamping options close to Dunlap, California.
Prepare for limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer partial or no hookups. "All sites have full hook ups. Some sites have 50 amp service but it will rarely be needed because of the elevation of 6800 feet. All sites will accommodate the RV, vehicle, boat, and more," explains Tom D. about Wishon Village RV Resort.
Consider road conditions to campgrounds: Many access roads are winding and challenging for larger rigs. "The road is a little windy to Wishon. It's about 40 min past Shaver Lake. There is no signal unless you buy the wifi internet pkg. I can't remember the price but around $15 for 3 days I think," notes Tonya C., providing practical details about accessing glamping facilities near Dunlap, California.
