Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks sit at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 14,500 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Winter temperatures in Cedar Grove can drop to freezing while summer days reach 95°F. The campgrounds near these parks typically operate May through September when road conditions allow safe passage to the higher-elevation sites.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Tenmile Campground offers free dispersed camping with hiking trails within walking distance. One camper noted, "There was a creek running behind our campground which was an easy (less than 10 minute) walk that had a natural rock slide into the water... perfect to cool off in."
Fishing opportunities: Horse Creek Campground provides access to fishing areas for those wanting to combine camping with angling. "Nearby Hume Lake offers more recreation including fishing, boating, hiking and more," reports one visitor who stayed at a nearby campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area has active wildlife, requiring proper precautions. A camper at Whitney Portal noted, "This area is allegedly infested with black bears, but we didn't see any this time. Bear boxes are provided at each campsite." The campground also features "tons of mountain squirrels running around the campground frequently."
What campers like
Private sites: Princess Campground features well-spaced sites that provide privacy. One visitor mentioned, "Sites are spacious, offer plenty of privacy, and have large tables and firepits. The restrooms are pit toilets that are well maintained and fully stocked with toilet paper."
Water features: Campers appreciate the water elements at many campgrounds. A camper at Sentinel Campground described, "There was a small stream at the back of the site that occupied kids making fairy houses for hours. Beyond that was the river, which gave a peaceful backdrop for sleep."
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location provides excellent night sky viewing. A visitor at Horse Creek noted, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited open seasons. Princess Campground operates "May 31 - Sep 14" according to official listings, similar to other area campgrounds.
Bear safety requirements: Bear boxes are mandatory for food storage. A camper at Sheep Creek Campground noted, "The campsites are good, and the bear boxes are large. It's only a short walk to the river and a slightly longer walk to the ranger's station."
Elevation considerations: Altitude affects temperatures significantly. At Whitney Portal, "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine."
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds have minimal facilities. One Tenmile Campground visitor explained, "Free dispersed camping in sequoia national forest... No showers or anything obviously but they do have showers in the nearby parks seasonally."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-adjacent sites: Water features entertain children for hours. At Sentinel Campground, one family shared, "There was a small stream at the back of the site that occupied kids making fairy houses for hours."
Check for interpretive programs: Rangers offer educational activities in many locations. "The Sentinel campground is closest to the ranger station, where the National Park service rangers host many programs. There is also a small store and informational center with the rangers station," noted one visitor.
Book well ahead for summer visits: Family-friendly sites fill quickly. A camper at Buckeye Flat Campground reported, "The sites are tent only, so no hookups or anything like that. Pretty nice sites though, a lot of space."
Plan for temperature changes: Pack for variable weather conditions. At Whitney Portal, "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine."
Tips from RVers
Choose campgrounds with RV amenities: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. Princess Campground includes sites "most suited for RVs & trailers, all for tents."
Check for dump stations: Limited facilities exist in the area. Horse Creek Campground provides a sanitary dump station, though one visitor noted it was "unavailable due to a maintenance project" during their visit.
Prepare for tight turns: Access roads can be challenging. A Whitney Portal visitor warned, "The Whitney Portal's position at the end of the road means you'll need to ascend/descend a mile in elevation over 13 steep and twisting curves every time you leave or return."
Consider generator restrictions: Many sites limit or prohibit generator use. Check individual campground regulations before planning to use electrical equipment at your glamping site in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
