The area surrounding Lemon Cove offers dispersed camping opportunities in foothill terrain at elevations between 500-1,100 feet. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F from June through September, with milder conditions in spring and fall. Water access varies seasonally at Lake Kaweah, which fluctuates dramatically between winter and summer months.
What to do
Horseback riding on nearby trails: While dedicated horse facilities are limited, some campers bring horses to Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area. This location accommodates various camping styles with drive-in access. "Higher sites are pretty private and have enough sun coverage for solar, the ones by the road get traffic passing by daily," notes therealquaid D.
Stargazing after sunset: Horse Creek Campground offers excellent night sky viewing due to minimal 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 Brittney J.
Fishing at Lake Kaweah: When water levels permit, fishing is available near Horse Creek campsites. "Decent fishing and great for boating and watersports," mentions Robert S., though access depends on seasonal conditions. The reservoir typically reaches peak levels in late spring and early summer.
What campers like
Mountain views: Lone Pine Campground provides panoramic vistas of the Sierra Nevada range. "You have absolutely no neighbors, which gives you more privacy and the ability to face out in any direction and enjoy the scenery," shares one camper about their experience at a similar site.
Wildlife spotting opportunities: Campgrounds in the region attract diverse wildlife. "Various birds, though I was never able to get a good enough look to identify them. 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 a visitor at Horse Creek Campground.
Accessible water features: Many campers appreciate proximity to water. "We visited this camp late July 2022, hot temperatures although nice breeze. Google map is not updated/accurate since it shows lake bend is closer to campsites which is not," explains fabricio M. when discussing seasonal water levels at Horse Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding affects campsite availability: Several campgrounds near Lake Kaweah experience partial or complete flooding during high water periods. "A good campground from late fall to mid spring. In the summer this campground gets flooded from the rising lake waters of lake kaweah, which is fine because it is blazing hot in the summer," explains Matt B.
Summer heat requires preparation: Temperatures routinely exceed 100°F in summer months. "We visited this camp late July 2022, hot temperatures although nice breeze," reports fabricio M. Pack plenty of water, sun protection, and consider camping at higher elevations during peak summer.
Limited facilities for horses: While the area has campgrounds with "Horse" in their names, specific equestrian amenities like corrals are scarce. Sequoia RV Park and similar facilities permit pets but lack dedicated horse infrastructure. When bringing horses, call ahead to confirm current policies and available space.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with shade: Summer temperatures make shade essential. "Depending on your individual campsite, there may not be a lot of shade available to you, so plan accordingly if you are going in the summer. We were lucky the adjoining campsite had a pine tree in it whose shade we could steal in the afternoon," advises Madeline B.
Consider tent placement carefully: Many sites have uneven terrain. "Nearly every campsite has a major hill, so most will not have a good flat area for a tent. Site 61 is flat and a couple of others have flatter grounds, but many will have you sleeping on an angle," warns Brittney J. about Horse Creek Campground.
Plan for wildlife encounters: The area has diverse wildlife including predators. "Coyotes, rattlesnakes, meat bees (bring cheap canned meat to set out during the day and they will leave you alone for the most part)," mentions one camper at Horse Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check campground status before arrival: Facilities may close temporarily without online updates. "Closed as of 6/30/23 (most likely temporarily)" reports Martin T. about Horse Creek Campground. Call ahead to verify current operating status.
RV dump station availability varies: Some campgrounds offer sanitary dump stations, but these may close during maintenance. "The RV Dump station was also unavailable (same reason). During peak season I'm sure this is a great spot, but at the time of our visit it was a bit out of sorts," notes Connor N.
Spacious sites accommodate larger vehicles: Azalea Campground and similar locations can handle bigger rigs. "Spot#106. Unlevel, but most in this area are not level.#107 not bad. Some loops have no bathrooms so be aware of where you reserve," advises Mark M., highlighting the importance of checking site-specific details when booking.
