Dispersed camping near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offers secluded alternatives situated within the Sierra Nevada mountain range at elevations between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. These primitive sites experience temperature fluctuations ranging from summer highs near 85°F to nighttime lows around 40°F, with significantly colder temperatures during winter months when some forest roads become inaccessible due to snow.
What to do
Visit Chicago Stump: Located near Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area, this historic site features the remains of a massive sequoia cut down for exhibition. "We visited both parks and needed a place to sleep in my car... Very close to the Chicago stump! Lots of wood laying around also," notes mario U.
Explore OHV trails: The forest roads surrounding Sequoia Forest Hunting Area offer extensive off-highway vehicle opportunities. "Had my dual sport with me so after parking for first night I unloaded and the next day I road all over the trails. The coolest thing was the fire tower called Delilah lookout," reports Ray S.
Wildlife viewing: Dawn and dusk provide optimal times for wildlife spotting. While hiking near the campsites, maintain awareness of bear activity. A camper at Sequoia Boondock noted "signs of bear activity (bags clawed through) but we didn't see any."
What campers like
Solitude and privacy: Many dispersed sites offer seclusion from other campers. At FS Road 13s09, one camper reported, "Easy to find, quiet, peaceful spot! Only one other camper but still so much room to spare."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. A camper at Forest Road 14S11 North Camp shared: "We stayed here in October 2023 for two nights... Great view on the night sky."
Flexible camping arrangements: Sites accommodate various camping styles and group sizes. "Nice big camp spot in the Sequoia National Forest, the road was really calm mid-April, we had no car during the night. The spot has firepits, a camping table and loads of bushes," notes a visitor to FS Road 13s09.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Winter conditions frequently restrict access to higher-elevation sites. A visitor to Forest Rd 14S29 reported in May 2025: "We were stoked to try and camp here, but ended up realizing it was closed due to ice for the winter upon arrival. No way to check until you get there, I guess!"
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas near Sequoia and Kings Canyon lack basic amenities. At Sequoia National Forest 13S08 Site, a camper noted: "Permits needed for ALL fires (camp, and propane stoves). Pack in, pack out. No water, bathrooms, trash, etc. Very quiet and secluded."
Road conditions: Access roads require careful navigation, particularly after weather events. Regarding Buck Rock Campground, a visitor observed: "The road to get their is easily passivle during dry weather, although some parts of the roads are pretty rutted. Especially after rainy weather."
Tips for camping with families
Pack adequate supplies: The remote nature of dispersed camping requires self-sufficiency. Bring sufficient water, food, and waste management solutions for your entire stay.
Choose accessible sites: Some areas provide easier access for families with young children. "Multiple spots along the road. They are marked by stones or wood blocks and a small fire pit next to them," notes a camper at Forest Road 14S11 North Camp.
Plan for temperature variations: The significant day-to-night temperature swings require layered clothing. A visitor to Big Meadows Horse Camp mentioned: "We had a great two days - other than the mosquitos that wanted to carry us away," highlighting the importance of insect protection as well.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller recreational vehicles only. A visitor to Forest Road 14S11 North Camp reported: "This is a really nice area for camping on the side of the road here, but we only could've squeezed our 39ft Class A into maybe 2 of these spots."
Solar options: Several sites balance shade with solar charging opportunities. A camper at Forest Road 13S02 Dispersed Site noted: "Was a great place to stay. Plenty of shade for you, plenty of sun for you solar panel."
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires leveling equipment. At Forest Rd 14S29, a camper advised: "We used to chocks to level up as it's pretty uneven in parts. But a great nights sleep, we had the place to ourselves."
