2025 Best Campground in Sequoia National Park Guide
Introduction to Camping in Sequoia National Park
Welcome to The Places Where We Go guide to help you find the best campground in Sequoia National Park! We’ve camped here more than any other campground and have experienced over twenty camping trips at Sequoia.
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Home to some of the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia National Park offers a unique camping experience unlike anywhere else. From crystal clear lakes and cascading waterfalls to soaring redwood groves and towering mountain peaks – camping in Sequoia is an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
At Sequoia National Park, camping opportunities are truly endless. From camping with a tent or RV to camping in the backcountry – whatever your camping style is, you can find what suits you best in this beautiful park. Whether you camp near the popular attractions or venture off the beaten path – camping in Sequoia National Park is one of the best places for camping and will provide a fantastic experience!
Whether you are looking for a camping trip full of adventure and exploration or a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature – Sequoia National Park has something for everyone! Let us help you find the perfect campground for your trip to Sequoia.
Why Should You Camp at Sequoia National Park?
Camping in Sequoia National Park is an incredible opportunity to experience inspiring natural wonders. From the world’s largest trees, such as the General Sherman Tree, to rugged mountain peaks like Mount Whitney and crystal clear caves like Crystal Cave – there are so many incredible sights to see while camping here! Not to mention the amazing night skies and star-filled nights, which are perfect for stargazing.
Staying overnight in Sequoia National Park also allows connecting with nature and exploring America’s most stunning national parks. With so many camping sites set within Sequoia’s vast wilderness, there are plenty of opportunities to get away from it all, disconnect, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this incredible place.
It’s the perfect place to make family memories. Secluded and remote, it is difficult to do anything but relax and enjoy nature. You are bound to see wildlife during your trip – from deer that wander through campgrounds to the yellow-bellied marmot that thrives in the Sierras.
Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced camper, Sequoia National Park offers the perfect camping experience for everyone. Let’s start to plan your camping adventure.
Campgrounds in Sequoia National Park
The following is a list of campgrounds within Sequoia National Park. The answer to the question, “What is the best campground in Sequoia National Park” may differ for each person. We’ve curated this list with key features of each campground and ratings from vacation planning sites to help you determine the best campground for you.
Atwell Mill Campground (Three Rivers)
Rated 5 Stars on The Dyrt
Atwell Mill Campground is one of the most popular campgrounds near Sequoia National Park in the Mineral King area. Located at 5,000 feet, this campground offers great views of the surrounding mountains and plenty of opportunities for exploring.
The Atwell Mill Campground has 21 campsites with two group sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no RV hookups at this campground and all locations at Atwell Mill Campground have tent pads and fire rings. Water is available at the entrance to the campground.
The Atwell Mill Campground is situated in a remote forest of cedar, fir, incense cedar, and pine trees. It is a beautiful spot to relax in at the end of the day! Wildlife sightings at Atwell Mill Campground include black bears, coyotes, deer, squirrels, and more.
Atwell Mill is located where logging of giant sequoia trees took place many years ago. The town of Three Rivers is a one-hour drive from the campground.
Nearby recreation options include hiking trails to alpine lakes and mountain passes.
The nearest services (limited) are at Silver City Resort, 1.7 miles east of the campground. More extensive services are available in Three Rivers, 23 miles west of the campground.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful getaway in nature or an adventure-filled camping experience, Atwell Mill Campground is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience at Sequoia National Park!
This place is amazing. You’ll be camping in an old Sequoia Grove that was milled. There are still a couple sequoias nearby that you can hike right up to, but even cooler are the giant stumps left over that you can right next to. We got site 17 out of 21 sites and it is THE BEST site in camp. Fair warning, this campsite is referred to as “Bear Ally” by the rangers because that’s where they come up from the forest to come checkout food opportunities at camp. We only saw 1 adolescent bear the 5 days we were up there. (Daniel J – The Dyrt Reviewer)
Atwell Mill Campground Features
- Open for Camping: May 23 to October 11 (approximate dates)
- Tent sites: 21 tent-only sites
- RV sites: No RV
- People per site limit: 6
- Site amenities: picnic tables, grill, fire pit, food storage box
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Vault toilets
- Generator Hours- 9 am to 9pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations: No reservations. First come, first-served.
Tip: Be aware of marmot activity. It is recommended to cover the underside of cars with a tarp while at the campground to keep marmots from chewing on car wiring.
Buckeye Flat Campground
Rated 4.5 on Recreation.gov
Buckeye Flat Campground is the perfect spot to experience the peaceful wilderness of Sequoia National Park. Located in the Sierra Foothills, this campground sits at a 2,800 ft. elevation in the shade of a large oak grove. Campground access is via a narrow, two-way road that hugs the mountainside.
There is a greater biological diversity here than in conifer forests and High Sierras.
The camp sites overlook the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River. The sites don’t have a direct view of the river, but you can hear the sound of the water rushing into the river.
Some of the campsites are on the small side; some are sloped and rocky. Most spaces have shade. It can get very hot at this campground during the summer.
This campground offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation and some great wildlife viewing opportunities, such as American Black Bear, bobcats, mule deer, and various bird species. Hikers can enjoy numerous trails, including the Paradise Creek Trail, a 5.5-mile out-and-back trail.
Giant Forest is a 30-minute drive from the campground, and home to Moro Rock, Congress Trail, and Crescent Meadow.
Buckeye Flat #4 was a Beautiful site. Well situated and has enough privacy to be able to unwind completely. Though no campfires, it was still a wonderful experience and the Park Rangers, Staff, and everyone I interacted with were Welcoming and overall just AWESOME. This was a kick-the-bucket list dream of mine and SEKI Buckeye Flat made it PERFECT. (Vern S. – A Recreation.gov reviewer)
Buckeye Flat Campground Features
- Open for Camping: April – September
- Tent sites: 26 tent-only sites
- RV sites: No RV
- Site amenities: picnic table, fire pit, grill, food storage box
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Flush toilets, no showers
- Generator Hours- 9am to 9 pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations: Reservations are required during the camping season. Reservations available through recreation.gov
Cold Springs Campground
Rated 4.5 on Recreation.gov
Cold Springs Campground is situated near the Mineral King Ranger Station. It sits amid aspen trees and conifers and is one of the most remote campgrounds in Sequoia. If you want to experience tranquility and solitude while camping, this is a place for you.
Getting to the campground takes you on the winding and narrow Mineral King Road. This is your only access path back to Sequoia National Park.
You’ll find the tent-only campground about one hour from Three Rivers, sitting on the east fork of the Kaweah River. Campsites are set in a heavily shaded area. This east Sequoia location in Mineral King is a good choice for campers who want to experience more remote sections of Sequoia.
This campground has fewer amenities compared to other options in Sequoia. Still, the payoff is a serene camping experience in a perfect spot for getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Nearby recreation options include access to hiking trails that lead to alpine lakes. The 6.5 mile round-trip Eagle Lake Trail is an excellent option for experienced hikers. After ascending a 2000-foot elevation gain, you’ll see a fantastic view of Eagle Lake. It’s a great half-day experience.
Given the remoteness of this campground, it may take you nearly 2 hours to reach the General Sherman Tree. So if you want to experience Giant Forest during your visit, this campground is not the best option.
Limited services are available at Silver City Resort – 2.5 miles west of the campground.
Cold springs campground is amazingly beautiful. Definitely recommend sites 22-30 because they’re right beside the water. The drive up to the campsites is very narrow, be prepared for a long and slow drive up the mountain. There are many great hikes walking distance from the campground with beautiful views. Pack for cold weather, the sites are shaded, so it gets very cold. Overall, such a fantastic trip and worth the drive. (Elliana H – A Recreation.gov reviewer)
Cold Springs Campground Features
- Open for Camping: Early summer to early fall
- Tent sites: 40 (9 are walk-in sites)
- RV sites: No RV
- Site amenities: picnic table, fire pit, food storage box, amphitheater, trash collection
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Vault toilets
- Generator Hours- 9 am to 9pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations: Historically a first-come, first-served location, check on recreation.gov for current reservation status as this campground may have recently changed to a reservation system.
Dorst Creek Campground
Rated 4.4 on Recreation.gov
One of the most popular campgrounds in Sequoia National Park is Dorst Creek Campground. Its central location between Lodgepole and Grant Grove Village provides the perfect camping location for navigating between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
RV campers have limited options in Sequoia National Park compared to tent campers, and Dorst Creek is one of the better locations for RV travelers. There are sites for most lengths of rigs, but the smaller your rig is, the more likely you’ll find a spot that fits your RV.
The campground has 218 total campsites. There are 4 campsites for large groups (15-30 people). Despite the large number of campsites, this location offers a somewhat quieter experience as compared to Lodgepole Campground, and campsites are generally spacious. There are meadows on the perimeter of the campground and several streams pass through the location.
Nearby recreation options include nearly 40 miles of hiking trails. The 3.8-mile out-and-back Muir Grove Trail ending at a beautiful Sequoia grove is a campground favorite. The Little Baldy 3.3 mile trail has slightly more elevation and offers a great view of the Great Western Divide at its highest point.
Fly-fishing is popular on Dorst Creek. The General Sherman Tree is a 22-minute drive from the campground.
Additional services are available in Lodgepole Village, nine miles away. Lodgepole offers a market, deli, snack bar, and gift shop.
Note: Suffering considerable damage during a recent fire, the campground was closed for the 2022 season. It may be a few years before the restoration is fully complete.
This has been my favorite campground since I was a little girl and now I’m in my forties taking my own family! The staff is very friendly and present on the campground. Sites and restrooms are maintained, and spots are beautiful! (Karen M. – A Recreation.gov reviewer)
Dorst Creek Campground Features
- Open for Camping: Early summer through fall
- Tent sites: Nearly 200 tent sites
- RV sites: Yes – non-electric. Several pull-thru sites. RV dump station.
- People per site limit: 6
- Site amenities: picnic table, grills, fire pit, food storage box, shuttle bus service
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
- Generator Hours (RV section of the campground): 8am to 11 am, 5pm – 8 pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations:. Reservations are required during the summer season and are available through recreation.gov
Lodgepole Campground
Rated 4.5 on TripAdvisor
We have camped at Lodgepole Campground over a dozen times – and it is not just our favorite campground in Sequoia National Park, but among our favorite campgrounds anywhere in the country.
Named for the lodgepole pine, Lodgepole campground is situated within a 10-minute drive of the Giant Forest area. This is where you can see some of the largest trees in the world. This is your best option if you want to enjoy the best of Sequoia during your camping visit, including Congress Trail, General Sherman Tree, and Crescent Meadow.
During our most recent visit, services were still slowly coming back to pre-Covid operations. We trust that in the coming seasons, all of the facilities from the Visitor Center, to food services, shuttle and showers, will be operating back to historical standards.
A campground with many amenities
We like this campground for the many hiking options available from the grounds. Campers have access to nearly 40 miles of trails. A favorite hike for campers is the Tokopah Valley Trail – a 4-mile out-and-back hike that culminates at a 1200-foot waterfall at the trail’s end. On our last visit, we walked to the General Sherman Tree from Lodgepole campground – a wonderful experience and preferable for us to take the shuttle.
The campground has over 200 individual sites and accommodates tent and RV campers. Along with a full range of amenities including bathrooms, showers, and a general store, it is one of the better-equipped campgrounds in the park. Most campsites have shade. Despite the large number of campsites, you can experience plenty of privacy.
We love the variety of experiences available for campers at Lodgepole. If you want to relax at the campground, you couldn’t ask for a more beautiful setting. During early to mid summer, the river running through the campground provides a place for children to play (assuming safe river conditions). Hiking options are numerous, as are options for excursions from the campground to see several notable attractions in Sequoia National Park.
Lodgepole Campground is the perfect place for campers seeking to explore the wonders of Sequoia National Park. With a mix of natural beauty, campground amenities, and proximity to the most popular places in Sequoia, Lodgepole easily ranks among the top campground choices in Sequoia National Park.
The campground’s store offers camping supplies, groceries, and souvenirs. Next door is the Village Visitor Center, where you can get the latest trail conditions from park rangers, see exhibits about the park, get tickets for Crystal Caves, and of course, get a stamp for your National Park Passport book.
Nearby attractions include proximity to magnificent giant sequoias. A shuttle service runs from the campground to several nearby places providing easy access to popular sites in the park. Plus, there are many attractions to explore in the area including:
- Crescent Meadow
- Crystal Cave
- General Sherman Tree
- Giant Forest Museum
- Moro Rock
- Tunnel Log
Gorgeous, clean campground centrally located in sequoia national park. amenities and supplies on-site. Friendly, knowledgeable rangers and staff. quality hikes within its boundaries. 10/10 would recommend to a friend! (Kristin H. – A Recreation.gov reviewer)
Lodgepole Campground Features
- Open for Camping: Early spring to late fall
- Tent sites: Nearly 200 sites.
- RV sites: Yes – non-electric. One site is pull-thru. RV dump station available.
- People per site limit: 6
- Site amenities: picnic table, fire pit, food storage box, ranger-led interpretive programs, grocery store, shuttle bus service. Note – coin-operated showers and laundry facilities are still not available during the 2023 season.
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
- Generator Hours (RV section of the campground): 8am to 11 am, 5pm – 8 pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations: Reservations are required during the peak season. Reservations available through recreation.gov
Watch our YouTube video on Lodgepole Campground
Potwisha Campground
Rated 4.2 on Recreation.gov
If you are looking for year-round camping in Sequoia National Park, Potwisha Campground is one of two options. Located 4 miles from the national park’s entrance, this conviently located campground near the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River is surrounded by oak trees.
The campground accommodates tent and RV campers alike and offers 42 reservable campsites. In winter, campsites are first-come, first-served basis. Set in the southern part of Sequoia National Park, campers get a different experience in this oak tree nestled environment. This is the lowest-elevation campground in the park which also contributes to it having the hottest temperatures.
There is a greater biological diversity here than in conifer forests and High Sierras.
Its location places it about 30 minutes away from the main attractions in Sequoia National Park, including Giant Forest and Crescent Meadow.
This campground offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation, as well as some great wildlife viewing opportunities, such as American Black Bear, bobcats, mule deer, and various bird species.
Nearby recreation options include several hiking trails and fishing opportunities. The Marble Falls trailhead is adjacent to the campground. Potwisha campground is about a 45-minute drive to the General Sherman Tree.
Great campsite near the creek, lower elevation so much warmer than other sites in the park. Lots of wildlife can be seen here—lovely, calm experience camping. (Rebecca C. – A Recreation.gov reviewer)
Potwisha Campground Features
- Open for Camping: Year-round
- Campsites: 42 total
- Tent sites: Yes
- RV sites: Yes – non-electric. RV dump station.
- People per site limit: 6
- Site amenities: picnic table, grills, fire pit, food storage lockers, pay phone, trash collection, visitor center, interpretive ranger programs
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
- Generator Hours: 9am to 9 pm
- Pets: Allowed – must always be kept crated, caged, or on a leash no longer than six feet
- Cell service: No cell service
- Reservations: Advance Reservations are required during the summer season and are available through recreation.gov
South Fork Campground
Rated 4.3 on The Dyrt
This is the second of two year-round camping destinations in Sequoia National Park. South Fork Campground is small with only ten sites for tent campers.
Located on the South Fork of Stony Creek, the spacious campground sits among an evergreen and oak forest near the south fork of the Kaweah River.
Getting here is over a dirt road and can be rough on vehicles. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
The campground is a good choice for a secluded option. It is remote and quiet.
Nearby recreation opportunities include hiking – particularly on the Ladybug Trail and at Garfield Grove.
This campground is difficult to find on some of the main camping websites. The address is: South Fork Campground, S Fork Dr, Three Rivers, CA 93271
Find out more information about South Fork Campground
South Fork Campground Features
- Open for Camping: Open year-round
- Tent sites: Yes – 10 sites
- RV sites: No
- Potable water access: No
- Restrooms: Vault toilets
- Reservations: First-come, first-served camping
Shop The Latest In Camping Essentials
Backcountry Camping in Sequoia National Park
Backcountry camping in Sequoia National Park is a unique experience that allows visitors to explore the great outdoors and be surrounded by nature. Sequoia has hundreds of miles of backcountry trails, providing overnight campers with plenty of opportunities for exploration. Backcountry camping offers a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature.
It is important to note, however, that Sequoia National Park requires a wilderness permit for all backcountry camping activities. Check with the National Park Service for specific information during your planned visit. Campers should also be aware that Sequoia has designated camping areas, and visitors must abide by these regulations to prevent damage to the environment. Bear safety practices should also be followed, as Sequoia is home to many black bears.
Winter Camping in Sequoia National Park
Winter camping in Sequoia National Park provides a unique experience. We’ve had the pleasure of opening the tent in Sequoia National Park to witness a winter wonderland covered in beautiful white snow.
While winter can be cold and wet, with the proper preparation, winter camping be incredibly rewarding. To ensure a successful winter campout, it’s essential to come prepared for harsh weather like freezing temperatures, snow, rain, and windy conditions.
There are only two campgrounds open in the Winter: Potwisha and South Fork. Both are located near major highways, making them convenient for winter travelers. Bring a good sleeping bag and warm clothing, as temperatures can dip below freezing at night.
Regardless of the weather, you can enjoy plenty of winter activities during your stay. Winter in Sequoia National Park is the perfect time for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wintertime visitors can take advantage of the breathtaking views on their way to explore various trails in the park.
Giant Sequoia National Monument
The Giant Sequoia National Monument encompasses over 328,000 acres and was designated by President William Jefferson Clinton in April 2000. The giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) only grows naturally in a narrow 60-mile band of mixed conifer forest on California’s western slopes of the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to camp in Sequoia National Park?
The best time to camp in Sequoia National Park is during the shoulder seasons, from late spring to early summer, and late fall to early winter. During these times, temperatures are milder and crowds tend to be thinner than in peak season (summer).
If you plan on visiting in the summer months, try to book your camping spot early to ensure that you get the best place. Springtime is great for camping due to the abundance of wildflowers and wildlife. Fall months can provide beautiful fall foliage, and winter months can offer a more peaceful experience. Whichever time you choose, remember to dress in layers and watch out for hazardous weather conditions such as snow or high winds.
Where else can I camp near Sequoia National Park?
In addition to Sequoia National, more camping options are available nearby. Consider Sequoia National Forest, which surrounds Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park to the north, and the Three Rivers area to the south.
Popular campgrounds in Sequoia National Forest include Big Meadow, Hume Lake, Princess campground, Stony Creek, and Upper Stony Creek campground.
Kings Canyon campgrounds include Azalea Campground, Canyon View, Cedar Grove, Crystal Springs campground, Morraine, Sentinal, Sheep Creek, and Sunset Campgrounds. Kings Canyon is also where you’ll find the General Grant Tree – the 2nd largest tree in the world.
Three Rivers to the south includes the Sequoia RV Ranch.
Can you camp anywhere in Sequoia National Park?
Free camping is only available at designated dispersed camping areas. There are many areas where dispersed camping is not allowed. These will be free if you can find a dispersed camping area, but you will need a campfire permit.
Does Sequoia National Park have accessibility features?
Sequoia National Park demonstrates a commitment to improve accessibility for greater enjoyment by all visitors.
For information about accessible sites and features in the park, you can email the park service at SEKI_Information@nps.gov or call at (559) 565-3341.
More information about accessibility in Sequoia National Park is available here.
Sequoia National Park: Know Before You Go
- ✈️ Airport: Fresno Yosemite International Airport (code: FAT) is the closest commercial airport to Sequoia National Park
- ⏰ Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (GMT-8)
Listen to our Sequoia National Park Podcast episodes
Sequoia National Park podcast (Part 1)
Sequoia National Park podcast (Part 2)
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Sequoia National Park – A Great Place To Camp
Sequoia National Park Camping combines breathtaking views with great outdoor activities. This perfect destination offers majestic forests, amazing wildlife, and plenty of camping sites. It’s no wonder why this park is a popular destination.
Whether you prefer to spend your time in the great outdoors or to soak up the scenery, there’s something for everyone at Sequoia National Park. So come on out and explore this great place to camp! You won’t regret it!
Julie & Art
The Places Where We Go
#sequoianationalpark #camping
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