Camping in Three Rivers ranges from 700 to 7,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. The Kaweah River watershed creates a network of cold, clear streams feeding through most campgrounds. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations while higher campgrounds close from November through April due to snow.
What to do
Swimming spots: 10 minutes from Sequoia entrance at Sequoia RV Ranch, where a natural spring-fed swimming hole in the North Fork Kaweah River provides relief during hot months. "The most amazing ever... 10 stars! This campground has a wonderful forest/mountain atmosphere, tumbling water for white noise, wildlife, granite slides, pools of blue water," notes Veronica S.
Hike to Tokopah Falls: 5-mile round trip from Lodgepole Campground offers moderate terrain suitable for families. "The marble creek river is gorgeous and people come, park and spend the day cooling off," explains Alma L., who adds that "the elevation also means it's 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning is best for spotting deer, quail, and occasionally bears. "Wildlife came through camp. We saw deer and quail each day," shares Aaron S. from Potwisha Campground. Remember that all food must be stored in provided bear boxes.
What campers like
River access sites: Premium camping spots at Three Rivers Hideaway feature direct river frontage. "The best part of the stay is the spot they have on the river my dog can swim in every day," notes Ashley M., highlighting the pet-friendly water access points popular with dog owners.
Less crowded winter camping: November through March offers significantly quieter camping experiences at lower elevation sites. "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. from Azalea Campground.
Thermal variety: Campgrounds at different elevations provide options for temperature preferences. "It was summer so we appreciated this site at higher elevation with the chilled air at night," explains Laura H., who chose Upper Stony Creek for its cooler temperatures compared to valley campgrounds.
What you should know
Seasonal water levels affect access: Lake and river campgrounds change dramatically through the year. At Horse Creek Campground, "Google map is not updated/accurate since it shows lake bend is closer to campsites which is not. The drought have made it too far to my liking," reports fabricio M.
Pet restrictions in national parks: While camping is pet-friendly, trail access is limited. Dogs must remain on leashes no longer than 6 feet and are only permitted on paved areas within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, never on dirt hiking trails.
Uneven tent sites: Many campgrounds feature sloped terrain. "Nearly every campsite has a major hill, so most will not have a good flat area for a tent," warns Brittney J., recommending sites 61 and 63 for flatter ground.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-specific recreation areas: Dedicated pet spaces are available at several campgrounds. "There is also a really nice, large, and clean dog park!" mentions Annika C. about pet-friendly camping near Three Rivers, California, providing enclosed areas where dogs can safely play off-leash.
Creek exploration: Shallow water play areas delight children and pets. "The kids rode bikes, played in the river and ran around until they crashed every night," shares Amy S. from Sequoia RV Ranch, noting the kid-friendly natural water features.
Ranger programs: Free educational activities occur throughout summer months. "During the summer months the Rangers put on a Campfire program at the campground every Saturday evening," explains Rob E., highlighting one of many ranger-led programs available to campers with children.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Limited operating hours at Lodgepole Campground. "Generator hours are thankfully enforced," notes Alma L., appreciating the quiet atmosphere this creates at established campgrounds.
Pull-through site options: Easier access for larger rigs. "Love the pull thru sites. We have a 34 foot 5th wheel and it was easy to get into these spots," shares Tonya C., though she cautions that "some spots don't have full hookups so look before you book."
Voltage issues: Power challenges occur at some campgrounds. "We had issues with low voltage from the electric post on site 6 which caused our RV's electrical system to cycle on and off every minute or two. The onsite techs diagnosed an issue with the city-supplied power and mentioned sites 1 through 10 had issues with power, mostly on the weekends," warns RichMichelle M.
