Dispersed camping opportunities near Hume, California tend to concentrate around the National Forest lands at elevations between 6,000-7,000 feet. This region experiences significant seasonal variations with winter snow accumulation that can limit access from November through April. Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area and FS Road 13s09 provide primitive sites with no amenities but offer direct access to both Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks.
What to do
Fishing at Hume Lake: The lake provides excellent trout fishing opportunities for anglers camping at Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground. "This has to be one of my favorite get away locations. The campsites a very spacious. The lake is great for fishing and they plant it many times throughout the year!" shares Angel C.
Hiking to secluded sequoia groves: Access lesser-known groves from various campsites near Hume. At Princess Campground, "There is a lovely paved trail near the adjacent meadow and sequoia grove. This is an ideal location just outside Kings Canyon National Park, located between Grant Grove and Kings Canyon itself," according to Patrick H.
Cooling off in streams: Escape summer heat by camping near waterways. At Upper Stony Creek Campground, you'll find "granite slides and pools of blue water, trout fishing, and the best tasting drinking water I've ever had in my life. Oh and it's a short distance from the biggest trees in the world," reports Veronica S.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Areas away from light pollution provide exceptional stargazing. Near Cherry Gap OHV Staging Area, there's "a nice open meadow to view stars at just outside of the campground," according to Mike T., who recommends asking the camp host where the clearing is for optimal viewing.
Proximity to supplies: Many appreciate being able to restock without long drives. At Sequoia National Forest Hume Lake Campground, campers note "you can even hike down the lake for 1/2 mile to the Hume Lake Christian Camp, where they have a visitor center, kayaks for rent, and even a general store with lots of food and supply options," as Daniel J. points out.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife sightings. "Saw many deer groups. Clean campsites and especially restrooms. We got to see two female bears walking at a distance from campground. Wildlife management team came and made sure bear stayed in its nature areas," explains Ginny M. about Dorst Creek Campground.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some campsites require careful navigation. For Eshom Campground, "If your camper/trailer is more than 17-18ft, do NOT attempt to come here, you'll probably get stuck on the way. You can get to the Scenic Byway by taking one of the forest routes as a shortcut," warns Kimberly M.
Primitive conditions at dispersed sites: Free camping means minimal amenities. At Cherry Gap, one camper noted, "This is a good spot if you go deer hunting or like roughing it," indicating the basic nature of these sites that require self-sufficiency.
Elevation impacts: Higher elevation affects temperatures significantly. At Sunset Campground, "The elevation also means it's 10-15 degrees cooler than other campgrounds," notes Alma L., making it preferable during summer heat but requiring warmer clothing for spring and fall visits.
Reservation strategies: Popular sites fill quickly during peak seasons. For Azalea Campground, "We went up on a Thursday and I am glad we did. If you go up on Friday you will be fighting for a spot and Good luck finding an opening on Saturday," advises Jimmy W.
Tips for camping with families
Choose creek-adjacent sites: Kids enjoy water play opportunities. At Azalea Campground, "The marble creek river is gorgeous and people come, park and spend the day cooling off. Spot 198 is the best for RV's in my opinion, but it only accommodates up to 22ft," suggests Alma L.
Look for ranger programs: Educational activities enhance family trips. At Upper Stony Creek Campground, "The Rangers have a little classroom area where they have Bear Safety talks, trail info, lessons, all for free!" says Garrett M.
Consider shoulder seasons: Less crowded experiences often occur outside peak periods. "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. about winter camping at Azalea.
Select sites with natural play features: Trees and rocks provide entertainment. At Princess Campground, "Site #26, huge stump of a tree, bear boxes, fire rings, picnic tables, water on site, flush toilets. Nice sites for sure," recommends Heather P., noting natural features that engage children.
Tips from RVers
Check site grade before setting up: Many mountain campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Lodgepole Campground, "We stayed here in July 2012 on our summer road trip out west. This was one of many campgrounds in Sequoia N.P. We barely fit on the site and had to use some crazy leveling techniques to get us set up," recalls Christy C.
Utilize dump stations strategically: Plan around available facilities. One camper at Princess Campground noted, "The highlight of our visit to Princess was that after we camped at Hume Lake, we were able to stop back by on our way home and use the RV sewer cleanout and water fill-up station for free!"
Consider generator restrictions: Some campgrounds enforce quiet hours. At Dorst Creek, "Generator hours are thankfully enforced," mentions Alma L., indicating the balance between power needs and wilderness experience that affects RV campers in this region.
