2025 Best Campground in Sequoia National Park Guide
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 destination and have experienced over twenty camping trips at Sequoia. We’ve prepared this article to help you find the best campsites in Sequoia National Park.
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Introduction to Camping in Sequoia National Park
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 plentiful. From camping with a tent, inside an RV, and 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 adventures and provides a fantastic experience!
Whether you are looking for a Sequoia 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.
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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 allows for connecting with nature and exploring America’s most stunning national parks. With so many camping sites 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 are the best campgrounds 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 Sequoia campground for you.
1. Atwell Mill Campground (Three Rivers)
Rated 5 Stars on The Dyrt
Atwell Mill Campground is among 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. 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 in a remote forest of cedar, fir, incense cedar, and pine trees. It is a beautiful spot to relax 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 the 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 will surely 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 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: No reservations. First come, first-served.
Tip: Be aware of marmot activity. Covering the underside of cars with a tarp while at the campground is recommended to keep marmots from chewing on car wiring.
2. 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 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
3. 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.
4. 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 four campsites for large groups (15-30 people). Despite the large number of campsites, this location offers a somewhat quieter experience than 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 Trail is a 3.3 hike with a bit of elevation gain and offers a great view of the Great Western Divide at its highest point.
Fly fishing is popular on Dorst Creek. People over age 16 need a fishing license, which you should purchase outside the park at a sporting goods store or facility that sells fishing licenses. Fishing licenses are not always available at the Park market.
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)
More Dorst Campground Reviews on TripAdvisor
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
5. Lodgepole Campground
Rated 4.5 on TripAdvisor
We have camped at Lodgepole Campground over a dozen times. It is not just our favorite campground in Sequoia National Park but it ranks among our favorite campgrounds anywhere in the country.
Named for the lodgepole pine, Lodgepole campground is 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 the Congress Trail, General Sherman Tree, and Crescent Meadow.
During our most recent visit, services were slowly returning to pre-Covid operations. We trust that in the coming seasons, all facilities, from the Lodgepole Visitor Center to food services, shuttles, and showers, will be operating back to historical standards.
Lodgepole Campground Amenities
We like this campground because of the many hiking options available on 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. If you’re looking for Sequoia National Park RV camping, you have options in Lodgepole. We’ve camped here several times with our Airstream. However, we do find navigating our 30-foot trailer a bit of a challenge in this campground.
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 Lodgepole Village Visitor Center, where you can get the latest trail conditions from park rangers, see exhibits about the park, get tickets for Crystal Cave, and 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:
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 include a picnic table, fire pit, food storage box, ranger-led interpretive programs, a grocery store, and a shuttle bus service. Check the Lodgepole Market Center website to see if coin-operated showers and laundry facilities will be available during your visit.
- Potable water access: Yes
- Restrooms: Yes
- Generator Hours (RV section of the campground): 8 am to 11 am, 5 pm – 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
6. 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 conveniently located campground near the Middle Fork of the Kaweah River is surrounded by oak trees.
The Potwisha 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 park’s lowest-elevation campground, which also contributes to its hottest temperatures.
There is a greater biological diversity here than in conifer forests and High Sierras.
Its location is 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 and 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: 9 am 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
7. 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, coming prepared for harsh weather like freezing temperatures, snow, rain, and windy conditions is essential.
Only two campgrounds are 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 perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Wintertime visitors can take advantage of the breathtaking views while exploring 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
FAQ – Sequoia National Park Camping
What is the best time of year to visit Sequoia National Park?
The best time to visit Sequoia National Park for camping is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is warm and dry.
Are reservations required for camping in Sequoia National Park?
Yes, reservations are required for all campgrounds in Sequoia National Park. They can be made up to six months in advance through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Can I bring my pet with me to camp at Sequoia National Park?
Pets are allowed at designated campsites and in developed areas of the park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Are campfires allowed in Sequoia National Park?
Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills at established campsites. Check the current conditions before your trip to see if a fire ban is in place.
What amenities are available at the campgrounds in Sequoia National Park?
Most campgrounds in Sequoia National Park offer basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. Some also have potable water and bear boxes for food storage.
Can I hike and explore from my campground in Sequoia National Park?
Yes, many trails can be accessed directly from the campgrounds in Sequoia National Park. Just make sure to obtain a trail map and follow all safety guidelines while hiking.
Are there any shuttle services available at Sequoia National Park?
Yes, a free shuttle service operates within the park during peak season (usually late spring to early fall). It stops at popular destinations such as the Giant Forest Museum, Lodgepole Visitor Center, and Moro Rock.
When should I make camping reservations in Sequoia National Park?
If you plan on visiting in the summer months, try to book your camping spot early to ensure that you get the best place.
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 (559) 565-3341.
More information about accessibility in Sequoia National Park is available here.
Where else can I camp near Sequoia National Park?
In addition to campsites at Sequoia National Park, more camping options are available nearby. Consider Sequoia National Forest camping. This area surrounds Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park to the north, and the Three Rivers area to the south.
For camping near Sequoia National Park, consider the popular campgrounds in Sequoia National Forest. These 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, Sentinel, 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.
More Lodging Options – Sequoia National Park
Check out the interactive map below to find more lodging options, including hotels and motels:
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 soak up the scenery, there’s something for everyone at Sequoia National Park campgrounds. So come on out and explore this great place to camp!
Julie & Art
The Places Where We Go
#sequoianationalpark #camping
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