Best Campgrounds near Three Rivers, CA

Three Rivers serves as a starting point for campers heading to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Sequoia's campgrounds include Lodgepole and Potwisha, which fill quickly because they're close to giant sequoias and other natural features. Kings Canyon's Azalea Campground sits among tall trees and tends to be quieter than some Sequoia sites. Spring and fall bring better camping weather and fewer people than summer, when you'll definitely need advance reservations. If you want to camp in the backcountry, you'll need permits, and during dry months, fire bans often go into effect. Remember that parks enforce a 14-day maximum stay. The campground facilities range from basic to those with flush toilets and running water. Pack out your trash since garbage service is limited in many areas. Don't count on having phone service in most parts of the parks. RVers can find full hookups at Sequoia RV Ranch, though you should book well ahead during busy seasons. Before heading out, check the park websites for any trail or campground closures that might affect your trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Three Rivers, California (246)

    1. Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park

    44 Reviews
    Hartland, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "If you’re looking to camp in California, Sequoia National Park should be one of your top destinations. They have cabin and tent camping. I have stayed in both."

    "Amazing views all around the campgrounds. If you want to get of away from the city this is the place to be...Love it."

    2. Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park

    24 Reviews
    Kaweah, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3714

    $32 / night

    "Far away from neighbors to feel privacy and great hikes in every direction that go up in the mountains. A lot of mule deer very close by as well."

    "We were right next to the entrance of a hiking trail (#14) so there was a lot of foot traffic & cars early in the morning and throughout the day."

    3. Three Rivers Hideaway

    18 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 561-4413

    "No real walking trails in the area but were able to go down to the river and there was a swimming hole,$40 for holiday weekend."

    "The campground is behind a RV and up against the river. Its a flat dirt lot with bathrooms and showers available. Market is near buy as well as gas stations in case ice or other supplies is needed."

    4. Sequoia RV Ranch

    14 Reviews
    Kaweah, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 561-4333

    $120 / night

    "This campground is our go to if we’re camping in Three Rivers."

    "Three Rivers is the closest town— about 10 minutes to small grocery, brewery, froyo, coffee shop, gas station."

    5. Horse Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    3 miles
    Website

    $20 / night

    "The tap outside the building didn't work and neither did the water fountain.

    The host was not there for check-in."

    "Two well located bathrooms with good showers at no additional cost. During the summer months the Rangers put on a Campfire program at the campground every Saturday evening."

    6. Horse Creek

    7 Reviews
    Lemon Cove, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 597-2301

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Some of the sites (75, 76 etc..) look out on Lake Kaweah. It’s clean and well organized. Some highway noise."

    7. Lemon Cove Village

    9 Reviews
    Lemon Cove, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 370-4152

    "Nice drive thru RV’s sites. Friendly Staff and good staff especially Jennifer. Very nice dog park, not a lot grass but good running area for dogs."

    8. Dorst Creek Campground — Sequoia National Park - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    14 Reviews
    Hartland, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 - $80 / night

    "The only thing negative I could say about this campground is that a lot of the campsites are very close to each other. But if you choose wisely, as my friend and I did, then I have no complaints."

    "It was also very close proximity to pretty much everything. We did a lot of driving around."

    9. South Fork Campground — Sequoia National Park

    6 Reviews
    Three Rivers, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    "We also actually crossed paths with two tarantulas, one on the way to the site and one on the way out (different parts of the road)."

    "Maybe it was the somewhat treacherous drive in (6 miles of steep winding one lane gravel/dirt road) don't look down if you have a fear heights! Maybe it was the cooler December temperatures."

    10. Azalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park

    27 Reviews
    Hume, CA
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (559) 565-3341

    $32 / night

    "Easy walk to campstore, post office, restaurant, and visitor center. Many trails close by. Very busy in summer. No reservations. Tent only loops available."

    "Very quiet but some sledding and hiking activity close by. Sites are a little close to each other, but being so quiet it's not a big deal."

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Recent Reviews near Three Rivers, CA

1034 Reviews of 246 Three Rivers Campgrounds



Guide to Three Rivers

Camping near Three Rivers, California, offers a fantastic escape into nature, with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax by the river, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails nearby, including the Topokah Falls trail right inside the Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park. One visitor mentioned, "It’s a stunning area of the park with the Topokah falls trail right inside the campground."
  • Swimming: The Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park features a lovely swimming hole. A camper noted, "This campground is sort of basic. It is very close to town as it's the first campground in the Sequoia Park. The swimming hole is unmatched."
  • Wildlife Watching: Many campgrounds, like Azalea Campground — Kings Canyon National Park, offer opportunities to see deer and other wildlife. One happy camper shared, "Deer pass by your camper in the morning."

What campers like

What you should know

  • Restroom Conditions: Some campgrounds have mixed reviews about restroom cleanliness. A camper at Azalea Campground noted, "The bathrooms were the most unattractive part."
  • Crowded Campsites: Popular spots can get busy, especially during peak season. One visitor at Lodgepole Campground mentioned, "Some of the sites are a bit close together and it does get very crowded."
  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds, like Sequoia RV Ranch, have little to no cell service. A camper shared, "There is 0 cell service at this site."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites for family gatherings. A reviewer at Princess Campground said, "Great campsite good spacing between other campsites."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of nearby activities. One family at Dorst Creek Campground enjoyed, "Great hikes from campground. Especially, Muir groves and lookouts, breathtaking views."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep the kids happy. A visitor at Potwisha Campground mentioned, "The camp host was very friendly and helpful."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Lodgepole Campground recommended, "Spot 198 is the best for RVs in my opinion, but it only accommodates up to 22ft."
  • Use Dump Stations: Take advantage of dump stations for convenience. One camper at Sequoia RV Ranch noted, "The dump station is very nice and free to use."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Respect quiet hours to ensure everyone enjoys their stay. A visitor at Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA mentioned, "There were tons of very large noisy groups."

Camping near Three Rivers, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, you're sure to have a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close is Three Rivers camping to Sequoia National Park?

Three Rivers serves as the primary gateway to Sequoia National Park, with most campgrounds offering convenient access to the park entrance. Lodgepole Campground — Sequoia National Park is located within the park itself, offering the closest proximity to iconic attractions like the Giant Forest and General Sherman Tree. Potwisha Campground — Sequoia National Park is situated just inside the park boundary, a short drive from Three Rivers. For those staying at campgrounds in Three Rivers proper, the main entrance to Sequoia National Park is typically 10-15 minutes away by car. This strategic location allows campers to easily explore the park's magnificent sequoia groves while having access to the services and amenities of Three Rivers.

Where are the best campgrounds in Three Rivers, CA?

Three Rivers offers several excellent camping options. Sequoia RV Ranch stands out as a favorite base camp with creekside full hookup sites and easy access to town amenities. For those seeking a mountain experience, Cold Springs Campground — Sequoia National Park provides a beautiful setting in the Mineral King valley, though it requires navigating a winding 23-mile road from Three Rivers (about an hour drive). Other notable options include Potwisha Campground for its proximity to the park entrance and Three Rivers Hideaway for its convenient location. The area's campgrounds offer varying levels of amenities and natural settings, making Three Rivers an ideal gateway for exploring both the foothills and the magnificent Sequoia National Park.

Are there any camping options near Three Rivers for RVs?

Three Rivers offers several excellent options for RV camping. Sequoia RV Ranch is particularly well-suited for RVers, featuring full hookup pull-through sites, including premium riverside locations. The ranch provides adequate space for maneuvering larger rigs, though water pressure can be variable. Horse Creek Campground near Lemon Cove is another big-rig friendly option in the vicinity with hookups and accessible sites. Most RV parks in the area offer essential amenities like water, electric, and sewer connections, with some providing laundry facilities ($1.50 for washers, $1 for dryers at Sequoia RV Ranch). Three Rivers' RV campgrounds serve as convenient basecamps for exploring Sequoia National Park, typically located within a short drive to the park entrance while offering more amenities than the more primitive in-park camping options.

What amenities are available at Three Rivers campsites?

Campgrounds in Three Rivers offer a range of amenities to suit different camping preferences. Visalia-Sequoia National Park KOA provides family-friendly facilities with organized events and activities, making it particularly good for families with children. Three Rivers Hideaway offers basic necessities like water and toilets in a convenient location. Most campgrounds in the area provide potable water, restroom facilities, and fire rings or grills. Many riverside campsites feature the natural amenity of the Kaweah River, offering opportunities for swimming and fishing during warmer months. Campgrounds closer to town provide easier access to Three Rivers' restaurants, shops, and markets, while those within or nearer to Sequoia National Park offer more primitive settings with basic amenities but stunning natural surroundings.