Tent camping near Johnsondale, California offers direct access to Sequoia National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,200 to 7,000 feet. The area features distinct seasonal patterns with snow closing most sites from late fall through early spring. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day, dropping to the 40s at night, requiring proper layering for comfort.
What to do
River recreation: Limestone Campground provides excellent access to the Kern River for water activities. "Activities in the area: hike the 7 teacups trail or go canyoneering, swimming, fishing, white water tubing/rafting/kayaking," notes camper Les R. The river offers both calm spots and more challenging rapids depending on season and snowpack conditions.
Wildlife viewing: Nighttime presents opportunities to spot local wildlife around your campsite. One camper at Camping area No. 3 shares, "We had couple visitors stop by at night (yes they were animals) 😁 we saw a bear and a possum so make sure you store your trash just above a tree." Dawn and dusk hours typically offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities.
Hiking nearby sequoias: Trailheads near dispersed camping areas connect to networks of hiking paths. "About a mile or two from the Trail of 100 Giants Sequoia trailhead so that was really nice beating the crowds there in the AM," writes Danielle B. about a nearby dispersed camping area. Morning starts avoid both crowds and afternoon heat during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing at Belknap Campground, where "Each campsite had its own uniqueness. There are plenty of trees and plenty of shade on all the sites." Jordan K. continues, "We had site 15, and although the picture of the site looks small there is a trail to, an upper spot for putting the tent, which makes the campsite secluded and beautiful!"
Night sky viewing: The remote setting offers stellar night sky observations. Javier B. notes at Limestone Campground that visitors enjoy "nice n quite after 10pm lots of stars and morning airshow if you're lucky." Light pollution is minimal throughout the area, making stargazing productive even without specialized equipment.
Water sounds: Sites positioned near creeks or rivers provide natural soundscapes. At Belknap, "Our site was between a creek and the river so we listened to water the whole time. So relaxing!" writes Vicky D. These water-adjacent sites fill quickly during peak season due to their popularity.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by location and season, with many areas implementing complete bans during dry periods. Curtis L. warns at Limestone: "Beautiful spot, but Bears visit at night. Keep food packed and ice chests put in vehicle." Fire permits are required for areas where fires are allowed.
Limited amenities: Most sites offer basic facilities, especially at dispersed locations. Vanessa C. notes about Dispersed Camp near Sequoia National Park: "BRING water and fill up on gas before you go. There are 0 resources for you." Plan accordingly by bringing sufficient supplies.
Road conditions: Access to remote sites can be challenging without proper vehicles. "Access was easy with a 4x4, but may be a little tough for a 2WD car," Andy B. mentions about his camping experience. Recent weather can significantly impact road quality, especially for dispersed sites.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming holes: Kids enjoy the natural water features throughout the area. At Camping area No. 3, "The water is super clear and nice!" according to Cameron L., who continues, "We were the only ones staying here, so it was very quiet and calming." Morning hours often provide calmer water conditions before afternoon recreationists arrive.
Cleanliness considerations: Peppermint Campground offers basic facilities suited for families. "Very relaxing, campsites are fairly spreed out first come first serve. Pit toilets avaliable. Lots of places to swim and explore," writes Roger W. Pack extra hygiene supplies as facilities are minimal.
Bear awareness: Teach children proper food storage protocols for safety. "At the moment it is closed for camping, it's been closed for 2 years but I just heard it will be opening again in November. Yay. Please make sure to pack all your trash that is the reason it's been closed," notes Jessica P. about her experience at the best tent camping near Johnsondale.
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused campgrounds: Many sites near Johnsondale prioritize tent camping over RVs. About Evans Road Hidden Camp, Erik R. shares: "Clearly defined track pops off 155. There are spots for a couple of campers. We drove to the end of the track, ends in a loop, and parked our camper van there." Smaller rigs under 20 feet typically have more options.
Alternate parking strategies: When standard sites are unavailable, creative solutions may work. "Slid backwards down the hill kicking up dust a couple of times trying to get out the next day, but we made it! Would have been another story if it had rained," notes Danielle B. about navigating a van to a camping area. Consider seasonal weather patterns when selecting sites for vehicles.
