Big Meadows Cabin (Ca)
04 reviews35860 KINGS CANYON RD
Big Meadows Cabin (Ca)
$125.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for the cabin during both peak seasons (June 20–August 30 and August 31–September 30) is $125. Guests are required to purchase a park permit to access the area ($35 for a 7-day pass, $70 for an annual pass).
About this campground
Step back in time at Big Meadows Guard Station, where 1930s craftsmanship meets modern adventure in the heart of Sequoia National Forest. This charming one-story cabin whispers stories of fire patrolmen and forest guardians while offering today's travelers a genuine mountain retreat. Original woodwork and vintage character blend seamlessly with a fully equipped kitchen and comfortable furnishings, creating the perfect basecamp for exploring towering Giant Sequoias and climbing the dramatic Buck Rock Lookout. Just remember to pack your favorite blankets and pillows – this authentic cabin experience requires you to bring your own cozy linens.
Big Meadows Cabin is a unique accommodation option, primarily catering to guests seeking cabin lodging and outdoor tent camping. It is suitable for small groups or families.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have witnessed nearly a century of forest history, built by the calloused hands of Civilian Conservation Corps workers during the Great Depression. From the 1960s through the 1980s, dedicated fire patrolmen called this cabin home, scanning the horizon for smoke and protecting these ancient forests. After years of quiet abandonment, careful restoration in 2001 brought the guard station back to life, preserving its authentic character while opening its doors to modern adventurers seeking connection with the forest's storied past.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Big Meadows into a sun-drenched paradise where crystal-clear skies frame perfect mountain days and temperatures remain refreshingly cool even as the valleys below swelter. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts to a pristine wonderland of snow and silence, though adventurers should note that the cabin's vintage charm extends to its heating system – pack extra layers for those crisp mountain nights when temperatures dip well below freezing and snow blankets the surrounding forest.
ElevationPerched at 7,600 feet where the air grows thin and the views grow spectacular, Big Meadows Guard Station offers a true high-country experience. At this elevation, summer afternoons bring welcome relief from valley heat while mornings dawn crisp and invigorating. The surrounding peaks tower even higher, creating a natural amphitheater where mountain vistas unfold in every direction and the night sky blazes with stars undimmed by city lights.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Meadows lives up to its name with sweeping grasslands bisected by a babbling creek, all framed by towering lodgepole pines, stately Jeffrey pines, and aromatic red firs. This natural sanctuary serves as your gateway to the pristine Jennie Lakes and Monarch Wilderness areas, where granite peaks pierce the sky and hidden alpine lakes mirror the clouds. The iconic Buck Rock stands sentinel nearby, its exposed granite face offering brave souls who climb its historic lookout tower panoramic views that stretch to the horizon.
Geological RegionWelcome to a landscape sculpted by time itself, where the magnificent Sequoia National Forest and Monument showcase nature's grandest achievements. Ancient Giant Sequoias rise like living monuments among granite domes carved by glaciers and polished by millennia of wind and weather. Buck Rock's dramatic granite outcropping tells a geological story millions of years in the making, while the surrounding forest of lodgepole and Jeffrey pines, punctuated by fragrant red firs, creates a living tapestry that changes with every season and reveals new wonders with each exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not explicitly stated in the source.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 900 square feet, providing spacious indoor accommodations.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a quiet and isolated location, offering high privacy. User reviews emphasize the peaceful nature of the area.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should visit during summer months for ideal weather and bring their own electric heaters if visiting during colder months.
Best CampsitesOnly one site is available; reviews mention its isolation and proximity to wilderness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Guests can call for the cabin lock code 5-7 days before arrival.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin sleeps six people, and up to two additional people can tent camp outside for a total of eight.
Groups
There are no designated group sites at the cabin.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is across the road from Big Meadows.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 20 through September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific mention of walk-up availability was provided.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival for cabins) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds are issued for no-shows, and modifications incur a $10 change fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Big Meadows Cabin can engage in a variety of recreational activities including hiking, horseback riding, fly fishing, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The cabin is also centrally located for exploring nearby wilderness areas, granite features like Buck Rock Lookout, and the Giant Sequoia groves.
Hiking
The area provides access to numerous trailheads leading to popular wilderness areas such as Jennie Lakes Wilderness, Monarch Wilderness, and National Parks wildernesses. These trails offer picturesque views and diverse hiking experiences.Fishing
Fly fishing in Big Meadows Creek is highlighted as a popular activity. Specific details about fish types or fishing conditions are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on roads and designated trails within the Giant Sequoia National Monument.Boating
Non-motorized boating opportunities are available at Hume Lake, which is approximately 15 miles away.Wildlife viewing
Numerous giant sequoia groves and the surrounding forest areas provide excellent opportunities for observing diverse wildlife.Winter Activities
The cabin is located in a region that may experience significant snowfall, as indicated by weather trends, but no specific winter activities such as skiing or ice fishing are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing can be enjoyed at nearby Hume Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- There is an outdoor fire ring/barbecue available.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country, requiring proper food storage practices.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
There is no explicit mention of emergency services in the source materials.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 20–August 30 and August 31–September 30.
Trash and recyclingThe cabin includes trash collection services, but specific details about recycling or pickup schedules are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresA creek runs through the meadow near the cabin.
Common complaintsReviews mention issues with heating (non-functioning baseboard heaters) and critters in the walls, alongside broken kitchen appliances.
Campground Map
35860 KINGS CANYON RD
Driving directionsTake Highway 180 east to the Kings Canyon National Park entrance, where you will be required to purchase a forest/park permit. After entering the park, continue 2 miles to the park Wye. At the Wye, turn right as though you were going to Sequoia National Park and continue on the General's Highway approximately 6 miles to the turn off to Big Meadows. The Big Meadows Road (Forest Road 14S11) is located on the left-hand side of the road. Follow this road approximately 4 miles, where you will find the Guard Station on the left side of the road.
The road to the campground is accessible all year but requires driving through Kings Canyon National Park to reach Big Meadows Road (Forest Road 14S11). Roads were not mentioned to be unpaved or challenging.Nearby places
Fresno is 75 miles away, and Hume Lake is 15 miles from the cabin.
Nearby supplies
Hume Lake is 15 miles away and offers basic amenities such as fishing supplies, though specifics on grocery or camping supplies were not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Big Meadows Cabin (Ca) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe Big Meadows Cabin as peaceful, isolated, and well-equipped. Visitors praise the kitchen amenities and the charm of the cabin but note some maintenance issues such as non-functional water heaters and critters in the walls.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciated the cabin's isolation, well-equipped kitchen, and functional wood-burning stove. Several reviews highlight the cabin's peaceful location and scenic surroundings.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
A recurring complaint among users was the lack of hot water and functional heating during colder months. Other issues included outdated appliances like the oven and critters in the walls.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend visiting during warmer months or bringing additional electric heaters to cope with cold weather. Visitors also suggest calling ahead for the lock combination and confirming...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Guests visiting during colder months noted significant discomfort due to non-functional heaters and water heaters. Summer visits were generally more favorable, with guests enjoying the scenic...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is in a great, isolated location; the kitchen was nicely equipped." - Jeffrey J
"This is a great little place for families and small parties. The kitchen is fully stocked and the wood...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews mentioned campsite 001 in the Big Meadows Cabin area, with ratings ranging from 3 to 5 stars.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed on the premises, as stated in the authoritative source. User reviews did not comment on pet policies.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025