Sentinel Campground
4.45345 reviews47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$16 - $32/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open from May 9, 202...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$16 - $32/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open from May 9, 202...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV FriendlyShowers
Get DirectionsSentinel Campground
$16.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Entrance fees of $35 per vehicle or $20 per person apply. Camping fees are $32 per night for regular camping and $16 per night for discounted Access...
Show more
Standard Site Fee$32.00
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$32.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider559-565-3341
What Campers Say
4.45
Recommended
Based on 345 reviews
122 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanrestroomsspacioushiking
"Sentinel Campground receives highly favorable reviews for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. Common themes include the availability of flush toilets, bear boxes, and hiking trails. However, some reviews highlighted challenges like bear activity, lack of lighting in restrooms, and overcrowding during peak seasons."
Fees & Passes at Sentinel Campground
$16 - $32/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 14 nights per reservation and per year.
Cancellation: A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Reservations m...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official National Park Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Sentinel Campground
From May through October, Sentinel awakens to its most welcoming season, though Mother Nature keeps you on your toes with her temperature swings. July days can soar above 90°F, perfect for river dips and shaded hammock lounging, yet when darkness falls, the mercury plummets dramatically—sometimes even flirting with frost. Pack layers and embrace the extremes: there's something magical about needing sunscreen by day and a cozy campfire by night. This dramatic temperature dance is part of the canyon's charm, creating those crisp mornings when mist rises from the river and every breath feels impossibly fresh.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
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)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 9, 2025 - October 26, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from May 9, 2025, to October 26, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Seasonal closures of showers and facilities. Potential air quality issues due to nearby wildfires.
About Sentinel Campground
Deep within Kings Canyon—one of North America's most dramatic gorges—Sentinel Campground emerges like a hidden sanctuary beneath towering granite walls. Here, where the Kings River whispers through ancient groves and wildflower meadows paint the landscape in seasonal hues, camping takes on an almost mythical quality. Whether you're casting a line into crystalline waters at dawn, setting off on trails that wind through cathedral-like forests, or simply breathing in the pine-scented air while granite peaks glow pink at sunset, Sentinel offers that rare combination of accessibility and wilderness immersion that transforms a camping trip into a lifelong memory.
Sentinel Campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping, and group sites. Primitive camping options are not clearly mentioned.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Sentinel awakens to its most welcoming season, though Mother Nature keeps you on your toes with her temperature swings. July days can soar above 90°F, perfect for river dips and shaded hammock lounging, yet when darkness falls, the mercury plummets dramatically—sometimes even flirting with frost. Pack layers and embrace the extremes: there's something magical about needing sunscreen by day and a cozy campfire by night. This dramatic temperature dance is part of the canyon's charm, creating those crisp mornings when mist rises from the river and every breath feels impossibly fresh.
ElevationCradled within the depths of Kings Canyon, Sentinel Campground sits at a carefully chosen elevation that balances accessibility with mountain majesty. While specific elevation data varies throughout the canyon's dramatic terrain, the campground's position offers the perfect vantage point for both canyon floor exploration and upward gazes at the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a canopy of ponderosa pines and incense cedars, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the morning sun. Sentinel's landscape reads like a greatest hits of Sierra Nevada beauty: massive granite monoliths rise like ancient sentinels (hence the name), while the south fork of the Kings River provides a liquid soundtrack to your stay. Black bears amble through in search of their next meal—a reminder to secure your food properly—while deer graze in nearby meadows at dusk. Every direction offers a postcard view, from intimate forest groves to sweeping canyon vistas that humble even the most seasoned travelers.
Geological RegionSentinel Campground claims its place in one of Earth's most spectacular geological showcases—Kings Canyon, a chasm so deep it rivals the Grand Canyon in places. Carved over millions of years by glaciers and the persistent Kings River, this granite wonderland tells the story of our planet's power in every weathered cliff face and polished rock. The campground itself nestles where ancient geological forces created a perfect natural amphitheater: protective granite walls soaring skyward, gentle meadows spreading at their feet, and the south fork of the Kings River threading through it all like a silver ribbon, constantly reshaping this ever-evolving masterpiece of stone and time.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites are available. The paved roads throughout the campground facilitate ease of access for vehicles and RVs. Dishwashing sinks and water spigots are conveniently located near restrooms.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and accommodating, with some large enough for multiple tents or RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across sites. Some sites offer better seclusion, while others are closer together or near popular amenities. Reviewers suggested choosing sites on the outer loops for more privacy.
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the river (e.g., #14) are ideal for tranquility and scenic views, while meadow-facing sites (e.g., #55) offer unique experiences.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per reservation and per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 people per campsite.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutPaved roads with loops surrounding meadows, rivers, and forested areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9, 2025, to October 26, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up campers; some reviews mention finding spots even when reservations appeared full.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee. Reservations must be canceled by midnight the day before arrival to avoid forfeiting the entire fee for single-night stays.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Sentinel Campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. The proximity to Kings River enables anglers to fish, while nearby trails like the Mist Falls and Kanawyer Loop appeal to hikers of all skill levels. Wildlife sightings, including bears and deer, are common. Visitors frequently described the natural beauty of the area as a highlight of their experience.
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant and cater to varying skill levels. Mist Falls, Zumwalt Meadow, and Cedar Grove Overlook are popular choices. Reviewers frequently praised the scenic beauty and accessibility of these trails.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Kings River, with trout being the primary catch. A California state fishing license is required.Swimming
Swimming in the river is possible. Reviewers noted the cold water and strong currents, urging caution.Biking
Biking is allowed on paved roads within the campground. Helmets are mandatory for children under 18 years old.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are common, including deer and black bears. Reviewers described encounters as exciting but stressed the importance of bear safety measures.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led hikes and nature presentations are available during the active season, enhancing visitor engagement with the park's natural features.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the campground closes for the season by late October.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like wading and swimming are popular in the Kings River.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires must be attended, and firewood is sold locally. Dead and down wood may be gathered for campfires, adhering to size limits.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area requiring strict food storage. Strong river currents and slippery rocks present water hazards.
Active alertsSeasonal closures of showers and facilities. Potential air quality issues due to nearby wildfires.
Weather at Sentinel Campground
49
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Cedar Grove Visitor Center is located just outside the campground and offers ranger services. The nearest hospital is in Fresno (~87 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - October 26, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are bear-proof, with reminders to relatch after use. Recycling facilities are also available. Some reviews mentioned dumpsters being zip-tied shut when full, causing inconvenience.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the south fork of the Kings River, offering fishing and scenic views.
Common complaintsComplaints include loud groups, bears entering camps, and lack of lighting in restrooms. Some noted missing soap in bathrooms and closed facilities.
HostNo camp hosts present; ranger station nearby.
Campground Map
47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA
Driving directionsFrom Fresno, CA, follow California State Highway 180 East to Cedar Grove. Sentinel Campground is located on the left (north) side of the road in the village.
The roads to Sentinel Campground are paved, making it accessible for both RVs and smaller cars. The drive from Fresno follows State Highway 180 East with winding roads, which can be challenging for larger vehicles. Vehicles longer than 22 feet are not advised between Potwisha Campground and the Giant Forest Museum.Nearby places
Fresno (~87 miles, ~2 hours), Visalia (~90 miles, ~2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Cedar Grove Village across the street offers a convenience store, gift shop, snack bar, hotel, showers, and laundry. The closest gas station is about an hour away from the campground.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
345 reviews
Sentinel Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sentinel Campground receives highly favorable reviews for its scenic beauty, cleanliness, and proximity to outdoor activities. Common themes include the availability of flush toilets, bear boxes, and hiking trails. However, some reviews highlighted challenges like bear activity, lack of lighting in restrooms, and overcrowding during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 345 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors frequently praised the natural beauty, spacious campsites, clean restrooms, and proximity to hiking trails and the Kings River. The campground's well-maintained facilities, including...
Based on 345 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback included issues such as bear activity disturbing campsites, lack of lighting in restrooms, occasional overcrowding, and challenges in securing reservations due to high demand.
Based on 345 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers suggested booking reservations early, bringing flashlights for restroom use at night, and ensuring all food and scented items are stored in bear boxes. Choosing sites along the river or on...
Based on 345 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season (summer) reviews highlighted the campground's popularity, with many visitors praising the availability of hiking and fishing opportunities. Fall reviews noted reduced crowds but colder...
Based on 345 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Sentinel Campground in Kings Canyon National Park is one of our favorites. Stayed in campsite #34 this trip. Large pull-through site, with plenty of beautiful shade trees and an open field.' -...
Based on 345 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #14 is frequently described as one of the best due to its proximity to the river and spacious layout. Sites on outer loops are recommended for privacy, while central sites are noted for...
Based on 345 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible features like paved roads and proximity to restrooms and water spigots are noted. Flashlights are recommended for nighttime restroom visits due to lack of lighting.
Based on 345 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on leash. Reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly environment but cautioned against leaving pets unattended due to bear activity.
Based on 345 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 27, 2025
Advertisement