Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks stretch across the Sierra Nevada mountains at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 14,000 feet. This dramatic range creates distinct temperature zones, with upper campgrounds experiencing temperatures 10-15 degrees cooler than valley locations. Most campgrounds in this region operate from May through September, though select sites like Azalea Campground maintain year-round access with winter camping options.
What to do
Hiking from camp to waterfalls: Upper Stony Creek Campground offers direct trail access to waterfalls. "The hike to the waterfall is easy for kids and the trailhead is in the campground. Campground is a short drive to many other trailheads in the park," notes Elise P.
Explore giant sequoia groves: Azalea Campground provides easy access to General Grant Tree and nearby sequoia groves. "There is a nice trail from the campground that leads to the General Grant Sequoia Grove, and a really nice trail through the Sequoia Grove," explains Annie C.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see local wildlife. "We saw multiple animals everyday. Nightly campground visitors are deer and sometimes bear in the summer," reports Elise P. from Upper Stony Creek.
Creek swimming spots: Upper Stony Creek Campground features natural granite water features. "The granite slides and pools don't have a clear path to get to. You kind of have to slip through other sites farther towards the hike-in sites to get to, which was uncomfortable," explains Veronica S.
What campers like
Riverfront camping: Sentinel Campground offers sites along the Kings River. "Huge campsites, ours was right on the river. Gorgeous place! Surrounded by trees and wildflowers," Katherine M. reports.
Free dispersed camping options: For budget-conscious travelers, Forest Road 13s09 provides free camping outside the parks. "Easy to find, quiet, peaceful spot! Only one other camper but still so much room to spare," says Mayra R.
Historic sequoia stumps: Princess Campground preserves remnants of old-growth logging. "Pitch your tent in a beautiful grove of sequoias - including the massive stumps left over from fallen giants - on the edge of a meadow filled with lupine, aspen, and a sweet little creek," shares Kate S.
Meadow walking trails: Princess Campground features a dedicated interpretive trail. "Awesome walking trail right outside of camp through a beautiful meadow," Patrick M. notes about this dog-friendly option near Sequoia National Forest.
What you should know
Summer cooling options: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from valley heat. "The elevation also means it's 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds," explains Alma L. from Lodgepole Campground.
Campsite privacy varies: Some campgrounds have closely spaced sites. "Campgrounds are tight, close quarters sites. Located directly off the main access road to Sequoia National Park, making it very loud and popular," Bryan R. warns about Potwisha.
Winter camping limitations: Most campgrounds close seasonally, but Azalea remains open. "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," reports Lydia H.
Bear safety requirements: All campgrounds enforce strict food storage rules. "Bear safety is an important consideration when camping with pets in this region, as proper food storage prevents unwanted wildlife encounters," a camper noted.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Dorst Creek Campground offers accessible hiking for children. "Muir Grove is a hidden gem of a hike to a serene grove of sequoias, accessed at the end of the campground near the group sites. Fairly easy 4 miles round trip, hiked with 6 children, youngest hiker is 6; well worth it!" shares Leslie M.
Water play opportunities: Many families enjoy creek access at their campsite. "We had a site near the road but noise was nonexistent. The creek creates a peaceful camping atmosphere while providing water access for cooling off during warm weather," Jennifer G. notes about Upper Stony Creek.
Ranger programs: Several campgrounds offer educational activities. "The ranger said that unlike Yosemite, Sequoia is packed with daytrippers. That proved correct!" Alma L. mentions from Lodgepole.
Dog-friendly trail options: While national parks restrict dogs to developed areas, adjacent forest lands welcome leashed pets. "The best part for us was having a campground that is welcoming to dogs! The National Forest campgrounds are the best when it comes to pups!" explains Allyson K. about Princess Campground.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit or prohibit generator use. "Generator hours are thankfully enforced," notes Alma L. from Lodgepole Campground regarding noise limitations.
Site leveling challenges: Sunset Campground presents terrain difficulties. "Sites are pretty close together, amenities are just ok. No sign showing entrance," warns Mo V. about this dog-friendly campground in Kings Canyon.
Dump station availability: Select campgrounds offer waste disposal. "Has sewer dump adjacent," notes Mark M. about Potwisha Campground, which accommodates pets at its tent and RV sites.
Limited solar exposure: Dense forest canopies affect power generation. "If you are reliant on solar power as I am, this is not a good campground as the trees are not only numerous but tall so reliable sun available all day while you're away is non-existent," advises April H. about Sunset Campground.
