Horse Creek Campground sits just minutes from Sequoia National Park, offering spacious campsites with mountain and lake views. The elevation provides comfortable temperatures during summer evenings compared to lower-lying areas. Located in the foothills with elevations around 1,000 feet, campers experience distinct seasonal changes with hot summers and mild winters, while several campgrounds include accommodation options like yurts.
What to do
Enjoy water recreation: The lake at Horse Creek Campground provides cooling opportunities during hot months. For prime water access, arrive early in the season before drought conditions impact water levels. "When the lake is full you can walk right up to the waters edge and actually boat in for camping," notes Rob E. During summer drought conditions, alternatives exist: "We had to drive 3 miles up where the river flows to cool down."
Explore the giant sequoias: Take a short drive from your campsite to witness some of the largest trees on earth. Tenmile Campground offers a convenient base for sequoia exploration. One visitor remarked, "Ten mile campground was an incredible place to camp among the giants sequoia trees! There was a creek running behind our campground which had a natural rock slide into the water... perfect to cool off in."
Stargazing: The foothills location provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. The surrounding hills create darker conditions by blocking light pollution. "The stargazing is beautiful. There is some limited light pollution emanating from the other side of the foothills, but because you are surrounded by foothills you get some good, dark surroundings to really appreciate the stars," reports one camper.
What campers like
Natural river sounds: The flowing water creates a peaceful camping soundtrack at Sentinel Campground. "We camped in a site near the restrooms and a trail. There was a small stream at the back of the site that occupied kids making fairy houses for hours. Beyond that was the river, which gave a peaceful backdrop for sleep," shares Emily B. Another camper confirms, "Absolute favorite campground, you can hear the river all day long."
Proximity to trails: Many campgrounds offer immediate access to hiking without driving. Campers appreciate the convenience of walk-in exploration options. "There is also a lovely paved trail near the adjacent meadow and sequoia grove," notes one visitor to Princess Campground. Another mentioned, "We enjoyed the walk through the Meadow trail and interpretive signs to learn about the history of the big trees."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse animal species, from birds to mammals. "There were also bats at night that really helped with the bug problem and created a cool ambience while stargazing. My husband loved listening to them hunt!" notes one camper. Bears are present in the region, requiring proper food storage in provided bear boxes.
What you should know
Seasonal facility limitations: Bathroom and shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds and sometimes close for maintenance. "Bathrooms were messy and half were out of order due to a maintenance project. The RV Dump station was also unavailable (same reason)," shares one visitor about their experience. At Sunset Campground, a camper noted, "The general store used to have public shower but not anymore."
Fire restrictions: During dry seasons, fire bans may be implemented regardless of campground fire facilities. Check current restrictions before arrival. "The only down thing you can't have fire during the high risk seasons for wild fires," reports a camper. Many sites come equipped with fire rings, but regulations supersede these amenities during high-risk periods.
Campsite spacing: Proximity between sites varies significantly between campgrounds. "Sites are pretty close together, amenities are just ok. No sign showing entrance," observed one camper. At other locations, "Huge campsites, ours was right on the river. Gorgeous place! Surrounded by trees and wildflowers."
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Rangers sometimes offer informative sessions during peak season. "During the summer months the Rangers put on a Campfire program at the campground every Saturday evening," shares one visitor at Horse Creek Campground. These programs provide learning opportunities about local ecology and wildlife.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking a middle ground between tent camping and cabins, Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA offers yurts with added comfort. A family noted this option works well "if you need a place to sleep overnight" with kids. The location offers easy highway access for day trips.
Wildlife precautions: Teach children about proper food storage and wildlife safety. "If you want cell service briefly, there is a spot about 3.5 miles away off 21S70 as if you're headed to Dome rock," notes a visitor, highlighting the importance of knowing emergency contact options in areas with limited connectivity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Many campgrounds have limited space for large RVs. At Lindy's Landing and Campground, a camper with a 35-foot fifth wheel reported challenges: "We have a 35 foot 5th wheel and they put us on the far end where it was hard to turn. It took a lot of turning and backing up to get into this spot." Another advised, "If you have a long fifth wheel or RV this place is perfect pull through parking full hook up."
Generator restrictions: Several campgrounds prohibit generators, requiring alternative power sources. "If you are reliant on solar power as I am, this is not a good campground as the trees are not only numerous but tall so reliable sun available all day while you're away is non existent," shared one RVer who had to "buy ice and put it in my fridge to keep my food cool."
Elevation considerations: The varied terrain affects RV performance and comfort. Higher elevation campgrounds offer cooler temperatures but may require more fuel consumption. "Princess campground is a perfect location to enjoy both the Sequoia & Kings Canyon sides. The elevation helps to keep the temperatures cooler during summer nights which is needed in this area of CA!"
