Equestrian camping near Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offers access to high-elevation terrain ranging from 6,500 to 8,500 feet. The area receives heavy snowfall from October through May, with many sites accessible only during summer months. Temperatures vary significantly between day and night with summer days reaching 85°F while dropping to 40°F after sunset.
What to do
Trail riding to Grant Grove: Access the General Grant Tree from Azalea Campground where you can ride directly to the sequoia grove. "Good trails to village and grants tree. Crystal springs campground adjacent has more trees, more shade," notes Mark M. The route offers moderate terrain suitable for intermediate riders.
Backcountry exploration: Experienced riders can access remote alpine lakes from Monarch Lakes Backcountry Sites via established equestrian routes. "Great site to get to after a short (semi difficult) hike. If you want to head off into other parts of the backcountry (or are coming back) this is a great calm and serene area with fantastic scenery," reports Elliott B. Pack appropriate high-altitude gear for horses.
Winter riding: Some areas remain accessible during winter months with proper preparation. "We decided to come in the off season in February and we got lucky with weather. Low tonight is only supposed to be in the upper 30s. Very quiet but some sledding and hiking activity close by," explains Lydia H. about winter conditions at Azalea Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to multiple trail systems: The central location provides access to both parks. "Azalea is great because it is central to both Kings Canyon and Sequioa. Good size spaces, lots of sites, trees and meadows everywhere," states Kristil C. Most riders appreciate the ability to access different trail networks from a single base camp.
Cell service for trail planning: Western Big Meadow Road Camping Area provides connectivity crucial for checking weather and trail conditions. "This pin location gets Verizon signal along with some of the higher sites if you pull off the road. Higher sites are pretty private and have enough sun coverage for solar," explains therealquaid D. The signal strength varies by carrier but remains strongest at higher elevations.
Water access for horses: Natural water sources supplement what riders must carry. "This spot is great if you want to be right by the water. The campsite is sometime filled with water so it is a seasonal thing. Be careful for snakes in this area," advises Angel C. about Horse Creek. Seasonal availability affects access to natural water sources.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Many equestrian sites lack dedicated horse infrastructure. "While tents and RVs are mostly mixed, there is a small tent only loop. The closest showers are down the mountain at Stony Creek Village or at Cedar Grove Visitor Center and Village," explains Annie C. at Azalea Campground. Pack portable containment systems or highline equipment.
Bear precautions: All food and scented items require proper storage. "Don't forget to use the bear boxes. There is no need to drive to see big trees as there is a nice trail from the campground that leads to the General Grant Sequoia Grove," reminds Annie C. Pack bear-proof panniers for trail rides.
Seasonal closures: Winter conditions limit access to many areas. "Montecito Bay Lodge just down the road has an all you can eat buffet Breakfast/Lunch $9 Dinner $20, the closest supplies are Kings Canyon Visitor Center, and Stony Creek Gas Station (closed oct-apr). You might want to double check with the Visitor Center if this road is open when it's snowing," advises therealquaid D.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with level ground: Many campsites have challenging terrain for setting up horse containment. "Site#106. Unlevel, but most in this area are not level.#107 not bad. Some loops have no bathrooms so be aware of where you reserve," warns Mark M. about Tuttle Creek Campground. Sites near creek beds tend to offer more level ground.
Plan for temperature fluctuations: Bring appropriate clothing for significant day/night temperature changes. "It did get chilly at night, but as long as you bundle up in your tent, you'll be completely fine. There are tons of mountain squirrels running around the campground frequently, and they are so cute and entertaining to watch," notes Elise F.
Accessible trail options: Select routes appropriate for younger or less experienced riders. "I'd camp here to hike Meysan Lakes and the start of the Whitney trail to Lone Pine Lake, neither of which require permits for day hikes. It's a great camp for acclimatization," suggests Jeff V. about Whitney Portal.
Tips from RVers
Trailer parking considerations: Not all sites accommodate large horse trailers. "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups. Close to King Canyon and other attractions," reports Rick L. about Sequoia RV Park. Call ahead to confirm trailer space availability.
Water management: Many equestrian sites lack full hookups for RVs with horse trailers. "New camp host arrived a day after us very well maintained clean dump station easy access," notes Randy W. Plan water usage carefully or bring portable water tanks.
Site reservation strategy: Book specific sites that accommodate both RV and horse equipment. "This is a great Corp of Engineer Campground just minutes from Sequoia National Park. Sites are big and well spaced from each other. No hook up but fresh water and a dump station are available at the campground," explains Rob E.
