Sequoia National Park and nearby forests surrounding Lemon Cove, California feature elevations ranging from 1,000 to 9,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across the region. Summer temperatures vary drastically between locations, with lowland sites reaching 95°F while higher elevation campgrounds maintain comfortable 70-80°F daytime temperatures. Winter snowfall closes most campgrounds above 5,000 feet from November through April.
What to do
River swimming spots: At Sequoia National Forest Belknap Campground, campers have access to natural swimming holes in the Tule River. "There's a decent swimming hole. Vault toilets. A few water spigots scattered throughout the campground," notes reviewer Vicky D. The campground sits at 4,200 feet elevation with the middle fork of the Tule River running through it.
Sequoia viewing hikes: Many campgrounds serve as trailheads for sequoia hikes not connected to the main park areas. "You're so close to some of the most amazing sequoia groves you have to see these trees. These trees are monsters!!" explains Elliott B. about Cold Springs Campground. Trails range from 1-5 miles and connect to higher elevation routes.
Wildlife observation: The Mineral King area offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. One camper at Cold Springs noted, "We even had a deer family visiting." The campground's remote location increases animal sightings, particularly during morning and evening hours. Bear activity is common, with sightings reported at multiple campgrounds.
What campers like
Natural privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the spaciousness of the area's tent sites. At Buckeye Flat Campground, one reviewer commented, "It was a little crowded, but the sites maintained a feeling of privacy." The campground has tent-only sites with natural vegetation separating camping areas.
Less crowded camping options: Many visitors appreciate the low crowds in certain areas. "This primitive campground is amazing! There were hardly any people and some fellow campers told us it wasn't even crowded on Memorial Day weekend," writes a reviewer about Atwell Mill Campground. The challenging access road contributes to lower visitation.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access in the region's rivers and lakes. At Belknap Campground, a visitor mentioned "Husband caught a nice trout," while Cold Springs Campground provides access to alpine lakes where trout fishing is available in season. Fishing licenses are required, with most productive fishing occurring May through September.
What you should know
Access road challenges: Many campgrounds require driving on steep, winding roads. A Cold Springs visitor warned, "The drive up isn't worth it! It's a long and windy dirt road, with steep drop offs." Another noted, "Once you turn off SR-198 in Three Rivers it will take an hour to get to the campground, it's only 23 miles."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity is common throughout the region. "Keep food in bear boxes. There was a bear in the campground our last night there. So put your food away at night," advises a visitor to Belknap Campground. Many sites provide bear boxes, but backcountry campers must bring bear canisters.
Limited amenities: Most tent sites have basic facilities only. "Vault toilets and potable water are provided. No cell service, but they do have a pay phone you can use," explains a Weaver Lake Trail Campsites reviewer. Running water is not available at all locations, especially in backcountry areas.
Tips for camping with families
Best swimming locations: Family-friendly swimming spots vary by season and water level. "The campground has the middle fork of the Tule river with easy access along the river and there is fishing. This is a good family CG!" notes a Belknap Campground visitor. Sites along rivers offer natural wading areas for children.
Campfire program availability: Some campgrounds host ranger-led programs on summer weekends. "The campfire events on weekends are good. Fine effort by the rangers," notes a Cold Springs camper. Programs typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day at larger campgrounds only.
Convenient hiking access: Crystal Springs Campground offers family-friendly hiking options. "We didn't have to get in the car, we just made it a long hike," mentions one visitor. The campground connects directly to trails leading to General Grant and other notable sequoias, making day hikes accessible without driving.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only restrictions: Many campgrounds near Lemon Cove don't accommodate RVs. At Buckeye Flat, a visitor notes, "It would have been a good site for a tent but we are traveling with a roof tent. Our site was a bit uneven with no way to level it." Most tent camping areas have size restrictions preventing vehicles over 22 feet.
Alternative RV-friendly options: For RV camping near the best tent camping near Lemon Cove, Dunlap Canyon Retreat offers hookup sites within 30 minutes of sequoia groves. "We stayed at lower main camp with 30 ft RV, and had plenty of room... The sites have water and sewer hookups & when we stayed he had one spot with full electric but he is working on full hookups for all the sites," explains Courtney F.
