Wishon Campground sits within Sequoia National Forest, managed by the US Forest Service, in a forested stretch along the North Fork of the Middle Fork Tule River near Camp Nelson, California. Getting there requires navigating a long, winding, and narrow road, and reviewers consistently flag rough sections that warrant careful driving, especially in larger vehicles. RVs are welcome up to 30 feet, with water and sewer hookups available, which is relatively uncommon for a Forest Service campground in this region.
Sites sit among old-growth trees, and the river runs close enough that the sound of rushing water carries through camp. Site quality varies noticeably: some are well-shaded under the canopy, while others reviewers describe as open and sloped, making tent setup awkward. Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and bear box. Swimming holes along the river draw most visitors, though Stephani H. notes you "can't hear the people in the tent next to you over the rushing water."
Amenities are functional but inconsistent. Vault toilets are on-site, though multiple reviewers mention them being poorly maintained. Drinking water is listed as available, but at least one visitor found it turned off mid-summer, so carrying extra water is a reasonable precaution. Mosquitoes and gnats can be significant, particularly in warm months. For those planning trips to the broader area, Balch Park Campground provides another option roughly 2.4 miles north. Wishon works best for campers who prioritize river access and can tolerate variable site conditions and a demanding drive in.
Description
Overview
Wishon Campground straddles two forks of the Tule River in the Sequoia National Forest, sitting at an elevation of 4,000 feet. A creek runs through the site into the Tule River, which originates in the Golden Trout Wilderness.
Recreation
There are many hiking and fishing opportunities in the area, including the Rose Grave Trailhead. Visitors can wade in the river at Wishon Fork.
Facilities
This year-round campground is configured in 3 parts: the Front Entrance section (sites 2-9) the Main Loop (sites 11-33) and the Doubles Spur (sites 34-36.) Wishon Campground offers 33 reservable campsites - 29 single sites and 4 double sites
Natural Features
The Sequoia National Forest, located at the southern end of the Sierra Nevada in central California, takes its name from the giant sequoia, the world's largest tree, which grows in more than 30 groves on the Forest's lower slopes. The Forest comprises about 1.1 million acres, and elevations range from about 1,000 to 12,000 feet, creating precipitous canyons and mountain streams with spectacular waterfalls such as Salmon Creek Falls and Grizzly Falls.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (661) 455-6010.
Nearby Attractions
There are six small remnant giant sequoia groves in the area, including Wishon, Silver Creek, Burro, Maggie Mountain, Middle Tule and Upper Tule Groves.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsWishon Campground is located in California near Camp Nelson
Directions
From Highway 99, turn east on 190. Travel on 190 through Springville to Wishon Drive/M208. Turn left on Wishon Drive and travel about 4 miles. The entrance to Wishon Campground is on the right as the road curves to Doyle Springs.
Coordinates
36.19013576 N
118.66413 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 11 min from Visalia, CA
- 1 hr 23 min from Hanford, CA
- 1 hr 32 min from Bakersfield, CA
- 1 hr 45 min from Fresno, CA
