Belknap
4.8160 reviewsQuick Facts
4,800 ftPrice
$34/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
The campground opens...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
4,800 ftPrice
$34/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
13 campsites
Season
The campground opens...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Belknap
$34.00 - $34.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for tent-only non-electric sites during peak season is $34, with an additional $2 fee for holidays. No discounts, taxes, or...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$34.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider661-455-6010sschmidt@goexplorus.com
What Campers Say
4.81
Top-Rated
Based on 60 reviews
56 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspacioushikingfriendly
Some mention
bugscell service
"Belknap Campground is consistently praised for its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and attentive camp host. Visitors appreciate its setting among giant sequoias and the serene atmosphere. However, some concerns include the lack of potable water, no cell service, and bear activity."
Fees & Passes at Belknap
$34/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of up to 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made ahead of arrival via My Reservations with a $10 cancellation fee and poten...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Rocky Mountain Recreation Company website.
Best Time to Camp at Belknap
Belknap's high-elevation climate creates perfect conditions for those who love crisp mountain air and starlit nights. During peak camping season, expect invigorating days with temperatures reaching around 48°F and refreshingly cool nights dipping to 29°F. The dry mountain air means minimal precipitation, allowing for uninterrupted outdoor adventures. Pack your warm layers and prepare for the kind of weather that makes morning coffee taste better and evening campfires feel magical.
Best
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: April 25, 2025 - October 25, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground opens on April 25, 2025, and operates with reservable dates until October 25, 2025. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts are declared in the source materials.
About Belknap
Tucked away in the heart of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, Belknap Campground offers an intimate tent-camping experience at 4,800 feet elevation. This cherished hideaway invites you to sleep beneath ancient sequoias, wake to the gentle sounds of the Tule River, and explore a network of trails that wind through groves of the world's largest trees. Despite its small size, this popular campground serves as your gateway to the wonders of the southern Sierra Nevada.
Belknap Campground caters to tent campers, offering 13 individual sites in a rustic setting among giant sequoias. The campground is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to its limited facilities.
Historical SignificanceStanding within the protected boundaries of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, Belknap Campground serves as a living classroom for conservation success. These ancient groves have witnessed thousands of years of history, from indigenous peoples who first walked among these giants to the modern conservation movement that ensures their protection. Today, camping here connects you to an ongoing story of preservation and wonder that spans generations.
Weather and SeasonsBelknap's high-elevation climate creates perfect conditions for those who love crisp mountain air and starlit nights. During peak camping season, expect invigorating days with temperatures reaching around 48°F and refreshingly cool nights dipping to 29°F. The dry mountain air means minimal precipitation, allowing for uninterrupted outdoor adventures. Pack your warm layers and prepare for the kind of weather that makes morning coffee taste better and evening campfires feel magical.
ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet in the Sierra Nevada, Belknap Campground delivers all the rewards of mountain camping without extreme altitude challenges. This sweet spot elevation brings you crisp, pine-scented air that fills your lungs with each breath, comfortable hiking conditions, and panoramic forest vistas that stretch across rolling ridgelines. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, offering welcome relief from valley heat while maintaining accessibility for most visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up surrounded by living skyscrapers – the majestic giant sequoias of the Belknap and McIntyre groves tower overhead, their massive trunks creating a natural cathedral. A melodic creek threads through the campground, joining the nearby Tule River in its journey through the mountains. Adventure seekers will discover hidden treasures like the thundering Salmon Creek Falls and dramatic Grizzly Falls, where water plunges through precipitous canyons carved over millennia. Every direction offers a postcard-worthy scene of ancient trees, rushing water, and rugged mountain beauty.
Geological RegionBelknap Campground sits at the southern terminus of the mighty Sierra Nevada, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. Deep canyons slice through granite bedrock, creating dramatic drops where waterfalls cascade in spectacular fashion. Mountain streams have carved their signatures into the landscape, while ancient sequoia groves stand as sentinels over this geological wonderland. This unique position within the Giant Sequoia National Monument showcases the powerful intersection of time, water, and stone that defines the Sierra Nevada experience.
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Campsite details
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with larger sites like #2 and #3 suitable for groups, and sites like #7 and #15 offering proximity to the creek.
Sites PrivacySome campsites offer better privacy than others. For example, campsite #1 is recommended for groups, while sites #14 and #15 are noted as being near the river. However, one user mentioned that some sites are shared or have neighbors walking through.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor group camping, sites #14 and #15 are ideal, offering riverfront views. For privacy, consider sites further from water features as noted in reviews.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not detailed.
Check-out
Check-out time is not detailed.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 14 consecutive nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests per tent camping site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 13 tent-only campsites with newly installed bear boxes. Sites are arranged with proximity to either the creek or shaded forest areas.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground opens on April 25, 2025, and operates with reservable dates until October 25, 2025. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned, but reservations are required during the reservable season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made ahead of arrival via My Reservations with a $10 cancellation fee and potential forfeiture of recreation use fees for late cancellations. Late cancellations for standard campsites occur after midnight one day before scheduled check-in, resulting in forfeiture of first-night fees.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground's activities focus on outdoor recreation in a natural setting. Guests can enjoy hiking, fishing, and biking, with trails starting directly within the campground and winding through the surrounding sequoia groves. The Tule River offers fishing opportunities, and a creek runs through the campground, providing options for water-related activities. Many guests highlighted the peaceful surroundings and proximity to natural attractions.
Hiking
The campground offers access to trails that wind through giant sequoia groves and alongside rivers. 'There is a trail with swimming pools behind camp site 14,' suggested one reviewer. Another noted the Nelson Trail as 'a super easy and scenic hike.'Fishing
Fishing is available along the Tule River, which runs near the campground. One reviewer mentioned, 'Even though the creek had been recently stocked, it was hard to catch fish, but it was still a nice experience.'Swimming
Swimming opportunities exist in the creek that runs through the campground. 'The creek that runs through it leads to a lovely little swimming hole,' commented one reviewer.Biking
Trails in the surrounding area are open to bikers, offering scenic routes through the sequoia groves and along wild rivers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant feature, although visitors should exercise caution due to bear activity. Multiple users reported encounters with juvenile bears in the campground. 'Pack carefully, make sure you don't leave food out at all,' warned one user.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires and BBQ grills are prohibited due to fire restrictions, emphasizing the need for caution given previous fire damage in the area.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is consistently reported. Reviews note juvenile bears patrolling campsites for food, with one instance of a bear consuming a camper's breakfast. Visitors must use bear-resistant lockers and avoid leaving food unattended.
Active alertsNo active alerts are declared in the source materials.
Weather at Belknap
48
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are not detailed in the source.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25, 2025 - October 25, 2025
Trash and recyclingNo specific recycling or trash disposal arrangements were mentioned other than general waste management. There were reports of bear activity near trash cans, emphasizing the need for proper disposal.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground features a creek running through it and is located near the Tule River. The creek provides opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include the presence of bugs following rainfall, lack of internet/cell service, and safety concerns due to bear activity.
HostThe camp host, Dan, is highly praised as being friendly, attentive, and diligent in maintaining the campground. "Dan keeps a clean and well-groomed campground."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Springville, California, proceed east on State Highway 190 for approximately 15 miles. Turn east on Nelson Drive and continue about a mile to the campground.
The campground is accessible from major roads via paved routes, specifically State Highway 190 and Nelson Drive. It is not mentioned whether there are seasonal closures affecting these roads.Nearby places
Porterville (approximately 15 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Nearby Camp Nelson offers supplies, including a general store and a pizza/bar less than a mile away from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.8
60 reviews
Belknap is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Belknap Campground is consistently praised for its natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and attentive camp host. Visitors appreciate its setting among giant sequoias and the serene atmosphere. However, some concerns include the lack of potable water, no cell service, and bear activity.
Review Summaries
Based on 60 reviews
What Campers Love
- Beautiful natural setting with giant sequoias and a creek running through the campground.
- Clean and well-maintained facilities.
- Friendly and helpful camp host, Dan.
- Proximity to hiking trails...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Lack of potable water on-site.
- No cell phone reception.
- Presence of bears within the campground.
- Seasonal restrictions on campfires due to fire risks.
Based on 60 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own water for drinking and cooking.
- Be prepared for bear activity by using bear-proof storage.
- Choose campsites near the creek for scenic views and the soothing sound of running...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During peak seasons, the campground is described as fully booked but well-maintained. Summer visitors highlight the shade provided by sequoias and the creek as a refreshing feature. However, bear...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful small campground with a creek running through it and giant sequoias scattered through it.' - Eloise Nelson
2. 'Dan, the camp host, is so friendly and seems made for the task. Dan keeps...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Campsite #1: Recommended for groups.
- Campsite #14: Near the river, highly praised for location.
- Campsite #7: Spacious and close to the creek, ideal for families.
- Campsite #15: Also near the...
Based on 60 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets appear to be allowed as visitors have noted the presence of dogs, but no specific policies or amenities for pets are mentioned.
Based on 60 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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