Lemon Cove camping areas sit at the western edge of the Sierra Nevada foothills, serving as a gateway to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter nights can drop into the 30s. Most campgrounds in the area operate year-round, though facilities may be limited during winter months.
What to do
River swimming: Access points at Sequoia RV Ranch provide natural water recreation. "There is a really nice swimming hole that we did not test out in March," notes Jennifer O., while Don B. mentions "The relaxing sounds of the river are great and the full hook-ups RV site loops are right on the river."
Fishing opportunities: The Kings River area offers seasonal fishing spots with varying water levels. At Kings River RV Resort, William M. reports "The park is along the King River. Which was dry as a desert when I was here. No water presently but looks like that's not always the case."
National park access: Most campgrounds serve as base camps for exploring nearby parks. "The greatest part was the proximity to Sequoia/Kings Canyon (8 miles to the entrance)," according to Erin A. about Sequoia RV Ranch. Early departures help avoid crowds, as Jeff notes, "We got up early on the road @645 am to the park was back by 11am. Only went as far General Sherman."
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: Many RV parks offer generous site layouts. At Nelson Falls RV Park, Nathan F. appreciates that sites are "spacious" with "full hookups for our 5th wheel." Similarly, Bryan W. notes at Sequoia RV Ranch, "camp sites were spaced out enough that you weren't right on top of your neighbors and close enough that you can hang with them."
Natural surroundings: Wildlife viewing opportunities exist throughout the area. Duane R. mentions at Nelson Falls RV Park: "Beautiful and quiet little campground with sequoia trees all around. Saw deer in and around the campground almost daily." Erin A. adds about Sequoia RV Ranch: "Turkeys and lots of birds roaming. We did see a bear too (in Sequoia not at the campground)."
Clean facilities: Several RV campgrounds Lemon Cove visitors appreciate maintain well-kept amenities. Lesley A. found at Nelson Falls RV Park: "The bathrooms had flush toilets and hot showers that were very CLEAN. That is usually very hard to find when you are camping! The entire campsite was clean and well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal water levels: Rivers and waterways vary dramatically by season. William M. observes at Kings River RV Resort: "The park is along the King River. Which was dry as a desert when I was here." During high flow seasons, humidity increases as noted by Cathaleen E. at Riverbend RV Park: "During our stay the river was full, water was ice cold which made it very humid and the mosquitoes were horrible."
Reservation requirements: Advanced planning is essential, especially during peak seasons. Ryan S. found at Lemon Cove Village: "Pull through sites made setting up super easy. Place was quite and clean. Not much for extra activities on site, but they did have a clubhouse. Great spot to stop if you are headed to Sequoia National Park."
Variable campsite quality: Sites differ significantly within the same campground. Michael C. recommends at Sequoia RV Park: "Bottom line....Make sure if you are following your GPS, you key in Sequoia RV Park and not the one with RV resort. There are many ways to arrive here, but the most direct and easiest is on California State Highway 180."
Mountain driving challenges: Routes to parks involve steep grades. Nathan F. cautions about Nelson Falls RV Park: "The drive up is a little daunting with going up the mountain, but the road was fine just take your time it will be worth it."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Lauren M. notes at Riverbend RV Park: "FHU with large pull through spots. Quiet place that was nice to spend a few days at while exploring Sequoia and Kings Canyon. Place has grass, dog park, lots of kids play areas, adults game areas, fishing pond, creek and river next to property is very pretty."
Pet-friendly options: Dog areas vary between locations. Annika C. appreciates at Sequoia RV Ranch: "Beautiful and well kept campground. Also loved the fact that loud music is not allowed. The sites by the river are amazing. There is also a really nice, large, and clean dog park!"
Noise considerations: Campground rules help maintain family-friendly environments. Amy S. shared at Sequoia RV Ranch: "Great spot to get away. We had 2 families with 4 kids under 5 years old. They rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night."
Affordability options: Dry camping areas can offer better value. Don B. found at Sequoia RV Ranch: "We stayed in the dry camping area for a week and had a great time. Lots of space in dry camping area, a fire pit, and a picnic table at the site."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Uneven sites can require extra equipment. DeAnna L. warns about Lemon Cove Village: "The spot we had was very uneven & the sewer is pretty much on an uphill slant from the trailer, which was an issue for dumping."
Site selection strategy: Pull-through sites offer easier setup. Tonya C. recommends at Lemon Cove Village: "Love the pull thru sites. We have a 34 foot 5th wheel and it was easy to get into these spots. Some spots don't have full hookups so look before you book your spot."
Utility connections: Power issues can occur at some campgrounds. According to an RV camper at Three Rivers Hideaway: "There are sites where you can back up to the river, is clean, has nice dog park area, nice fire pits & courteous staff."
Cell service information: Connectivity varies by location. At Nelson Falls RV Park, Nathan F. mentions "Zero Cell coverage (we took that as a good thing), but make sure to download your google map."
