Tent camping options near Hume, California range from dense forest settings to high-elevation alpine sites throughout Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The region sits at elevations between 5,000-9,000 feet, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Winter camping is limited as many forest roads close due to snowfall from November through April.
What to do
Enjoy water recreation: At Dunlap Canyon Retreat, campers have access to on-site water features. "There are 2 lakes on the property & access to another upper mountain ridge (20-30ish mins away) with some great views of the valley," notes camper Courtney F. The property provides opportunities for canoeing on a peaceful pond.
Explore hiking trails: The region offers varied hiking experiences from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. At Weaver Lake Trail Campsites, visitors appreciate the accessibility. "Easy 3-4 mile hike to beautiful weaver lake. Camp sites are spread out through out the side of the lake," explains Wutang P. The lake serves as both destination and water source.
Watch hang gliding: A unique activity near Hume is observing hang gliders and paragliders. At Dunlap Canyon Retreat, visitors can watch this aerial sport. "People hang gliding and paragliding here which was super cool to watch both at take off (upper spot) and landing (main camp)," shares Courtney F. Ryan P. adds that "Conditions for the hangglide was amazing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Buckeye Flat Campground in Sequoia National Park, the layout provides a sense of seclusion despite being in a popular area. "It was a little crowded, but the sites maintained a feeling of privacy," notes Amanda P. This tent-only campground offers a more intimate camping experience.
Access to water features: Many campers appreciate sites with water access. James W. mentions that at Buckeye Flat Campground, "There is access to the river for a cooling dip." This provides a natural way to cool off during hot summer days.
Spacious group sites: For larger parties, Canyon View Group Sites in Kings Canyon National Park offers ample room. "The group campsites are fairly spacious and easily fit 15 of us," reports one camper. Michelle H. adds, "The site could easily accommodate 20 people. Each site had 4 bear boxes which was plenty for our group."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: All camping in this region requires proper food storage. At Canyon View Group Sites, one camper notes, "Each site had 4 bear boxes which was plenty for our group." However, another visitor cautions that at some sites, there are "3 bear boxes (not enough so be weary of how many coolers you have)."
Bathroom and shower availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Twin Lakes Trail Campsites in Sequoia National Park, a backpacker mentions the sites have "bear boxes and a locker toilet." Some campgrounds offer running water while others have no facilities at all.
Seasonal insect activity: Be prepared for insects during warmer months. At Buckeye Flat Campground, James W. recommends, "Bring bug spray." At Crystal Springs Campground, one camper reported, "Every time we brought ANY food out we were swarmed with wasps. It made the experience a bit unbarring."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For family camping with children, consider drive-in sites with amenities. Crystal Springs Campground offers family-friendly features. Virgil O. notes it's "very spacious, picnic table, pit fire, restrooms are not too far & not too close to any site, flushing toilets and showers are not too far away."
Plan for temperature fluctuations: The high elevation means significant temperature drops at night, even in summer. Pack layers for children. At Twin Lakes Trail Campsites, a camper mentions, "Whole area is at about 9,000 ft elevation so it gets cold."
Consider timing for best tent camping near Hume, California: School holidays can mean crowded campgrounds. Gannon N. mentions arriving late but still finding space: "we got in at 10pm and were still able to find a free site" at Crystal Springs Campground, showing off-peak timing can work well for families.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: The roads to the best tent camping areas near Hume, California can be difficult for larger vehicles. At Hume Lake Rd Overlook Dispersed, a camper warns, "You have to drive up a winding road up 5000ft thennnn you have to drive up on cliff side and down hills to get to the area."
Limited hookup options: Most campgrounds near Hume lack full hookups. At Dunlap Canyon Retreat, Courtney F. mentions that "when we stayed he had one spot with full electric but he is working on full hookups for all the sites." This campground offers water and sewer connections for RVs.
Cell service considerations: For those needing to stay connected, cell coverage varies by location. Dunlap Canyon Retreat gets positive reviews for connectivity. "Verizon was excellent & wifi is available!" reports Courtney F., making this site suitable for remote workers camping in RVs.
