Camping near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in California contain numerous campgrounds scattered throughout the high Sierra Nevada mountains, with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 7,800 feet. Established campgrounds like Lodgepole, Azalea, and Sentinel offer tent, RV, and cabin accommodations within park boundaries. Outside the parks, Sequoia National Forest provides additional camping options at locations such as Upper Stony Creek Campground, Hume Lake Campground, and Princess Campground. Dispersed camping opportunities exist on Forest Service roads, including the Ten Mile Road (FS Road 13s09) area, which provides free primitive sites without amenities.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with limited winter access due to snow at higher elevations. Many developed sites require advance reservations during the peak summer season from May through September. "Beautiful campground with a really nice creek right behind the camp sites. Clean bathrooms for pit toilets," notes one visitor to Upper Stony Creek. Campgrounds at lower elevations such as Potwisha remain open year-round, while higher elevation sites like Lodgepole and Dorst Creek typically close by late November. Bear-resistant food storage is mandatory throughout the area, with bear lockers provided at established campgrounds. Cellular coverage is limited or nonexistent in most areas, particularly at dispersed sites and in canyon bottoms.
Campers consistently mention the streams and creeks as highlights of their experience. Sites adjacent to water sources like Stony Creek receive particularly positive feedback for the natural soundtrack and recreational opportunities. Several visitors commented on the excellent privacy between sites at Upper Stony Creek Campground, with one noting that "spots are very private with lots of trees for shade, close to the creek." Wildlife sightings are common, with deer frequently observed near campsites. Proximity to amenities varies significantly between locations; some remote forest sites offer complete solitude, while campgrounds near Stony Creek Village provide access to a general store, restaurant, and gas station. Most campgrounds feature vault or flush toilets, but shower facilities are limited to a few locations or absent entirely.
