Most RV parks in the Tollhouse area sit at elevations between 1,600-3,500 feet, providing cooler summer temperatures than the Central Valley floor. Facilities near Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks experience higher visitation during wildflower season (April-May) and autumn color change (October-November). Weekday arrivals typically offer better site selection and quieter camping experiences.
What to do
Swimming at natural water features: Sequoia RV Ranch provides access to a spring-fed swimming hole in the North Fork of the Kaweah River. "There is a really nice swimming hole that we did not test out in March. Easy and quick to Sequoia and a coffee shop and brewery just down the road!" noted one visitor to Sequoia RV Ranch.
Fishing opportunities: Kings River RV Resort offers riverfront access during seasonal flow periods. "Loved our stay at this resort. Warm pool, riverfront and a gorgeous beach! Will be back with out family of five and two doggos!" according to a camper who visited during spring break.
Wildlife observation: Turkey sightings are common at Sequoia RV Ranch, as one camper noted: "Turkeys and lots of birds roaming. We did see a bear too (in Sequoia not at the campground)." Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Accessibility to national parks: RV accommodations within 30 minutes of major attractions allow for easier day trips. "The greatest part was the proximity to Sequoia/Kings Canyon (8 miles to the entrance). Would definitely stay again should we visit the parks in the future," reported a camper at Sequoia RV Ranch.
Spacious campsites: Many area parks provide roomier sites than typically found in national park campgrounds. "Lots of room to get around. Grassy large spots with full hook ups. Close to King Canyon and other attractions," wrote a visitor about Sequoia RV Park.
Free firewood: Some parks include uncommon amenities with stays. "Add to this the full range of services, easily accessible and level sites, an onsite laundry and showers, free WiFi and FREE firewood, then you have a good picture of what awaits you," mentioned a camper at Sequoia RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal river flow variations: Water levels change dramatically throughout the year. A camper at Sequoia RV Ranch observed: "The rest of the river along the backside of the campground was dried up, due to drought conditions."
Electrical issues at some sites: Lower-numbered sites may experience power problems during peak usage. "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."
Coin-operated showers: Many campgrounds require quarters for shower operation. "Bath houses were okay not great. Showers use quarters. The place was completely full for our entire stay (Easter week)."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several RV parks offer play equipment for children. At High Sierra RV Park, guests found multiple recreation options: "The creek, waterfalls & rope swing over the swimming hole was unbelievable!! The kids enjoyed the rope swing while the mom enjoyed the walk back to the falls & thru the shallow waters."
Swimming facilities: Heated pools extend the swimming season at several RV parks near Tollhouse. "The park has a great pool and playground for the kids. We stayed here 3 nights but could've stayed here a week easy," reported a family who stayed at Yosemite RV Resort.
Kid-friendly bike routes: Flat camping loops provide safe cycling for younger riders. "Nice short bike rides up and down hills. Kids loved it!" commented a parent about their experience at Yosemite RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Cell service quality: Different carriers perform better at specific locations. At Bass Lake at Yosemite RV Resort, a camper reported: "AT&T service is poor and WiFi is sketchy except in the clubhouse and office areas."
Alternative access routes: Mountain parks may require careful navigation planning. "There are many ways to arrive here, but the most direct and easiest is on California State Highway 180. The park is open, but the office is not, so it's find a spot and check yourself in," advised an RVer about Sequoia RV Park.
Parking configurations: Some parks offer multiple setup options. One RVer at Kings River RV Resort noted: "The way the large-sized sites here are arranged, you can park your rig in various configurations. The utilities worked fine, including a decent water pressure of around 40 psi."