Sequoia Camping

About This Region

Sequoia National Park camping offers some of the most breathtaking overnight experiences in California's Sierra Nevada, where towering giant sequoias create natural cathedrals and granite peaks pierce endless skies. From the riverside serenity of Lodgepole Campground near the world-famous General Sherman Tree to the dramatic canyon depths of Sentinel Campground along the Kings River, these 20 carefully selected campgrounds showcase the incredible diversity of landscapes within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Whether you're seeking modern conveniences or primitive backcountry solitude, you'll find your perfect basecamp among these magnificent groves. Securing Sequoia National Park campgrounds reservations requires planning, especially for premier locations like Lodgepole, Azalea, and Sunset, which book up quickly during peak summer months. The most popular in-park campgrounds offer amenities ranging from flush toilets and drinking water to bear-proof food lockers that ensure safe coexistence with the park's abundant wildlife. With options spanning elevations from 2,800 feet at Buckeye Flat to 9,200 feet at Onion Valley, campers can choose their ideal mountain climate while accessing world-class hiking trails, pristine alpine lakes, and the legendary giant sequoia groves that have drawn visitors for generations.

The landscape surrounding Sequoia National Park campgrounds ranges from sun-drenched foothill canyons along the Kaweah River to high alpine meadows where granite peaks dominate the horizon. Expect dramatic elevation changes that create distinct ecological zones—lower campgrounds like Potwisha offer warmer temperatures and oak-studded hillsides, while high-country retreats such as Cold Springs and Onion Valley immerse you in pristine alpine environments where wildflowers blanket meadows and crystalline streams rush through ancient forests. The iconic giant sequoias, some of Earth's largest living things, tower overhead at mid-elevation campgrounds, creating an almost mythical atmosphere that defines the Sequoia camping experience. Camping styles vary significantly across the region, from fully-equipped family-friendly campgrounds with paved roads, flush toilets, and evening ranger programs at Lodgepole and Dorst Creek, to primitive tent-only sites at Atwell Mill and Cold Springs where vault toilets and walk-in access define the backcountry experience. Riverside campgrounds along the Kings River and its tributaries offer the soothing soundtrack of rushing water, while group sites like Canyon View and Aspen Hollow accommodate large gatherings beneath towering pines. Whether you arrive in an RV seeking accessible adventure or backpack to remote wilderness sites, the outdoor recreation opportunities span from casual nature walks to challenging alpine ascents.