Kings Canyon National Park sits at elevations ranging from 1,370 to 14,505 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates throughout the region. Temperatures in lower elevation campgrounds like Potwisha can reach 90-100°F in summer, while higher sites maintain cooler conditions. Pet friendly camping near Sequoia and Kings Canyon requires preparation for elevation changes and varying terrain conditions.
What to do
Creek exploration: Sheep Creek Campground offers excellent water access and hiking options. "The creek is also nice to have real close and a great place to spend an afternoon or a full day," explains Michael I., who also recommends "driving down (east) to the end of the road and hiking Kanawyers Trail to the Paradise Valley Trail."
Rock scrambling: Alabama Hills Recreation Area features unique boulder formations perfect for climbing and exploring. "The opportunity for exploring on your own is endless," notes Jennifer D., who adds that "sunrise view of Whitney is breathtaking." This area offers a distinctly different landscape from the forested national parks.
Waterfall hikes: Whitney Portal connects to several accessible waterfall trails. "There's a gorgeous waterfall that you can hike throughout, the water is so ice cold it's refreshing," shares C N., who recommends visiting between May and October when the campground is open. The trailhead to Lone Pine Lake provides a moderate 2.4-mile hike suitable for pets on leash.
What campers like
Natural swimming spots: Upper Stony Creek Campground features granite slides and natural pools. "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," explains Veronica S., who describes the location as having "tumbling water for white noise, wildlife, granite slides, pools of blue water."
Stargazing opportunities: Tuttle Creek Campground near Alabama Hills provides exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars and the Milky Way are insane! So many constellations and shooting stars and satellites," reports Rachel W., noting the complete silence at night. With minimal light pollution, campers report seeing satellites and meteor showers during summer months.
Wildlife viewing: Sentinel Campground offers consistent wildlife sightings. "Our family has been coming to Kings for over 40 years," says Tanya T., who advises "there are bears so don't leave any food out or in your tent. If you leave your coolers in your car make sure they are covered." Many campers report regular deer sightings throughout the day.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Lodgepole Campground maintains strict generator hours. "Generator hours are thankfully enforced," notes Alma L., who adds that "the elevation also means it's 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds." Fire regulations change seasonally, particularly during high fire danger periods.
River safety: Onion Valley Campground sits at high elevation with swift water sources. "Bring water or water filters as the spigots are dry. There's a creek to get water to filter," advises Stephanie, highlighting the importance of water preparation. The campground sits above 9,000 feet, requiring additional safety precautions for pets and children near waterways.
Bear management: Potwisha Campground enforces strict food storage practices. "There was a deep sink right next to the bathroom which made it easy to do dishes," notes Mandy, but she also observed frequent foot traffic near certain sites. Bear boxes must be used for all scented items, including pet food, toiletries, and trash.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Dorst Creek Campground offers family-friendly amenities and activities. "Center point for touring sequoia and kings canyon national parks. Free shuttle to take you all over the park," reports Ginny M., who enjoyed the "especially clean restrooms" and ranger programs that teach about wildlife management.
Nature programs: Lodgepole Campground provides structured educational activities for children. "Wonderful place to camp for first-timers or families with babies. Full amenities, general store, showers, washing machine's and Ranger station with activities for kids throughout the week," explains Erin M., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere.
Short hikes: Sentinel Campground connects to family-appropriate trails. "We hiked the Zumwalt Meadow loops which is a super easy trail (more of a walk) and well worth traveling a few more miles down the road," suggests Kelsey M., who found the one-mile loop manageable for all ages in her party.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Potwisha Campground offers varying site configurations. "Stayed in#2 which was largely shaded but sloped as are many sites. Recommend site#20 especially- next to river and large and level," advises Mark M., noting that sites #17 and #22 were also "level and relatively shady/private."
Leveling challenges: Whitney Portal presents terrain difficulties for some RVs. "We barely fit on the site and had to use some crazy leveling techniques to get us set up," reports Christy C., describing the "landscape here is beautiful with many pines and sequoias as well as granite boulders scattered everywhere."
Elevation considerations: Lodgepole Campground requires planning for temperature variations. "Spot 198 is the best for RV's in my opinion, but it only accommodates up to 22ft. If you can fit, it's amazing," recommends Alma L., noting "it's 10 mins to the big trees" and the campground's elevation means significantly cooler temperatures than lower sites.
