Top 12 Sequoia & Kings National Park Campgrounds & RV Parks

There’s nothing quite like the call of the wild to remind you how amazing nature can be, and Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are the perfect places to answer it. Between the towering sequoia trees and countless opportunities for exploring, it’s no wonder this duo of National Parks draws in visitors from all over the world each year. And, with every great adventure, you need a good base camp. So, where should you stay when you’re visiting these amazing places?

There are hundreds of campgrounds and RV parks to choose from, which can make narrowing down your options a little difficult. So, we’ve done the hard work for you! Below, you’ll find our pick of the 12 best Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park Campgrounds, including options for every camping style.

Are you ready? Let’s find the perfect campsite!

Lodgepole Campground

If you want to be in the thick of the action, Lodgepole Campground is the first place you should consider camping. Located 45 minutes from Sequoia & Kings National Parks and just 7 miles from the famous Giant Forest, there are 214 sites here that are suitable for RVs, trailers, and tents, so you’re guaranteed to meet a mix of other camping enthusiasts. Don’t worry about being crowded, though. While there are plenty of sites, they’re well-spaced so you’ll still get a sense of privacy.

Each site comes with its own picnic table, fire ring, and food storage locker (an absolute must in bear country), and while there are no hookups, there is potable water (seasonal), a dump station, and flush toilets scattered throughout. There’s also a seasonal camp store on-site where you can stock up on supplies and firewood. Just keep in mind that this campground closes between early December and late May, so if you’re planning a road trip within these months, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

The Tokopah Valley Trail starts a 17-minute walk from the campground, so it’s also an ideal place to stay if you’re a hiking enthusiast, and the moderate four-mile round-trip follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, ending at a beautiful waterfall. There are also options for the more adventurous camper close by, too, including Moro Rock (a 15-minute drive away), where you can climb to unbeatable views of the Great Western Divide.

Dorst Creek Campground

A little closer to Sequoia & Kings National Parks, Dorst Creek Campground is a 30-minute drive away. It is situated about halfway between the Ash Mountain entrance and Grant Grove, making it a great spot if you want to explore both parks. It’s also pretty large, with 281 sites for tent camping and RVs and you can stay here during open season from late spring to early fall.

There are no hookups here, but you’ll still have access to some basic facilities, including drinking water, a dump station, fire rings, picnic tables, food lockers, and flush toilets. Sites here can be reserved up to two months in advance, which takes the stress out of trying to find a space upon arrival. And, if you’re visiting in summer, Dorst Creek’s 6,500ft elevation means you’ll get cooler temperatures compared to some other sites. Perfect if you want to escape the valley heat!

There are plenty of hiking trails nearby, but the Muir Grove Trail is a particular favorite. Starting less than a mile from the campground, this is a quiet 4-mile out-and-back hike that leads you to a secluded grove of Giant Sequoias that will have you reaching for your camera. The General Sherman Tree is another must-see in the area and is just 20 minutes away. Or, for another hiking opportunity, take the 5-minute drive to Little Baldy for some amazing views of the surrounding area.

Sunset Campground

Do you want to be as close to Kings Canyon National Park as possible? Sunset Campground is an excellent choice, as it’s just 5 minutes away along the General Highway. You’ll find 158 reservable sites here, and while the amenities are basic, it is a great place to camp if you’ve been craving that no-frills, back-to-basics camping experience.

It’s not completely without facilities, though. You’ll have access to flush toilets (although they are open seasonally), trash cans, food storage lockers, potable water, and fire pits. There aren’t any hookups, but the sites are large enough to accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length. It’s also a pet-friendly campsite, but you’ll need to keep your furry friend on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

As well as offering you a rustic camping experience in the heart of the National Park, Sunset Campground is one of the best places to pull up if you want to be within walking distance of the General Grant Tree, which is also known as the “Nations Christmas Tree”. This amazing tree is just a 20-minute walk away and is surrounded by trails that wind through Grant Grove, and with ranger-led programs available, you can learn more about the park’s history from here.

Azalea Campground

A fantastic option if you’re hoping to take a winter or spring camping trip, Azalea Campground is open from November to May each year and has 110 sites that are offered on a first-come-first-served basis. It’s also at an elevation of 6,500 feet, so if you’re dreaming of waking up to snowy scenery or exploring the area in a whole new way, it has a truly magical atmosphere. Just don’t forget your snowshoes!

When it comes to amenities, you won’t find any hookups, but each site does have a fire ring, picnic table, and a bear locker. There are basic restrooms, too, with flush toilets and access to drinking water. However, one important thing to note is that each site can only accommodate up to six people, so if you’re in a larger group you’ll have to arrive in good time to grab a couple of spaces.

Not only is Azalea Campground just 6 minutes from Sequoia & Kings National Parks, but it’s less than 15 minutes away on foot from Grant Grove Village. This means you’ll never be far from supplies, a hot meal, or the chance to learn more about the area at the visitor center. It’s also a fantastic base for exploring nearby trails, and the North Grove Loop is a little over an hour away, which is perfect if you want to explore a little further afield.

Potwisha Campground

Open all year round, Potwisha Campground is just a 10-minute drive from the sign welcoming you to Sequoia National Park, and with only 42 sites in total, it’s a good option for campers looking for a quieter place to stay. It’s also a place to consider camping if you want to avoid the chillier temperatures of campgrounds at higher elevations, particularly if you’re planning a road trip in winter or spring.

There aren’t any hookups at Potwisha Campground, but there are picnic tables, fire rings, food storage lockers, flush toilets, a free dump station, and drinking water. You’ll need to reserve a space to camp here, which is never a bad thing if you’re trying to be as organised as possible, and if you need a wheelchair-accessible site, numbers 39 and 40 are the ones to book.

One of the best things about camping here is how close you are to the Paradise Creek Trail. Just 10 minutes from the campground, this is a relatively easy hike that takes you through some of the most incredible views of the surrounding foothills. Or, if you fancy an afternoon fishing, swimming, or simply chilling by the water, the Middle Fork Kaweah River flows right by the campsite.

Sentinel Campground

Another great choice if you want to be close to Kings Canyon National Park, Sentinel Campground is in Cedar Grove and is surrounded by meadow views and has the sound of the Kings River rushing past. This is the perfect place to unwind and get back to nature while still having easy access to some excellent outdoor activities.

You’ll find 82 reservable sites at Sentinel Campground and these can be booked up to two months in advance, which is ideal if you’re getting ahead of the game with your vacation planning. There aren’t any RV hookups, but being able to disconnect is all part of the camping experience here. You do have some basic amenities available, though, including flush toilets, drinking water, fire pits, picnic tables, and food lockers.

Once you’re settled in and ready to explore, the Mist Falls Trailhead is just 10 minutes away and is a fairly challenging hike that leads you to an incredible waterfall with some spectacular views. Also, since you’re only a 2 minute walk from the Cedar Grove Visitor Center, you’ll be able to join ranger-led programs of pick up some trail maps – perfect for exploring the best of Kings Canyon!

Sequoia RV Ranch

If your the kind of camper who needs more in terms of amenities, you should definitely consider Sequoia RV Ranch. Just 15 minutes from the entrance to Sequoia National Park, this is full service RV park with full hookups and it is ideal for anyone seeking the most comfortable campaign experience possible without sacrificing being close to nature.

It isn’t just hookups you’ll find here, though. The amenities also include restrooms with showers, trash cans, picnic tables, and drinking water. There’s even WiFi access, so you can stay connected to the outside world if you need to. Also, all sites are reservable, which is ideal if you don’t fancy the associated stress of trying to find a spot at a first-come-first-served campground.

Obviously, one of the main things that sets Sequoia RV Ranch apart from the other options on this list is the facilities on offer. However, that’s not all it brings to the table! You’re also just 15 minutes from the Indian Head River Trailhead, which takes you through 2 miles of beautiful riverside walking paths. And, as Moro Rock is just over an hour away, you’ve also got a great base for exploring a little further out before returning to the luxury of modern amenities.

Visalia/Sequoia National Park KOA Journey

Want to take things up another level with amenities? Visalia/Sequoia National Park KOA Journey is the place to go. Located about 40 miles from Sequoia National Park, you’ll find full 50-amp hookups here and spaces that can accommodate RVs up to 70 feet in length, which is ideal if you’re traveling in a larger vehicle.

But what about the other amenities? Well, you’ll have access to restrooms, hot showers, fire pits, picnic tables, a swimming pool, and a convenience store. There’s also a playground, and the staff put on fun activities throughout the week, such as pancake breakfasts and movie nights, making it an excellent place to camp if you’re taking a family vacation. There’s even a dedicated dog park, so if you’ve got your furry friend in tow, you’ll have a place to exercise them away from the park and surrounding trails.

Since you’re only 12 minutes away from the town of Visalia, you’re perfectly placed to explore the shops and restaurants. When you’re ready to head out into nature, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails nearby, and if you’re willing to head out further for a day trip, the Eagle Lake Trail is a 2-hour drive away and takes you on a challenging climb through forests and past the Eagle Sinkhole.

Three Rivers Hideaway

If you like the sound of staying at a full-service RV park but fancy being closer to Sequoia National Park, Three Rivers Hideaway is a very good option. You’re less than 4 miles from the entrance sign here, which actually makes it the closest RV park and campground you’ll find, and as it’s open year round, it’s perfect if you’re thinking of taking a road trip outside of the busier summer months.

The sites here are spacious and come equipped with water, electricity, and sewer connections, and you’ll also have access to flush toilets, free showers, a dump station, laundry facilities, and WiFi. Reservations are a must, since its such a popular spot, and there is a maximum of 6 people per campsite, so make sure you book more than this if you’re traveling with a large group.

When it comes to your surroundings, you’re right next to the Kaweah River here, which is ideal for kicking back with a picnic and unwinding after a day of exploring. You’re also just over an hour away from both the General Sherman Tree and Tokopah Valley Trail, so some of Sequoia’s most popular attractions are within relatively easy reach.

Riverbend RV Park

Another good choice for travelers hoping to set up camp along the banks of the Kaweah River, Riverbend RV Park is designed with comfort in mind but still gives you some amazing views and the feeling of being out in nature. And, while it’s 45 minutes from Sequoia & Kings National Parks, it has some excellent amenities that are hard to find closer.

We’re talking full hookups at each RV site, with 30-amp and 50-amp options to accommodate a wide range of rigs. There are also restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, fire rings, WiFi, a dog park, and a playground. You can even head out on the on-site basketball and bocci ball courts for a game with your friends or family, and when you’re done exploring and playing, the laundry facilities make it easy to keep your clothes clean!

When you feel ready to venture out of the RV Park, you’re perfectly placed between Sequoia National Park and Sierra National Forest, which is also about 45 minutes away. This makes it an excellent option if you want to explore as much of the great outdoors as possible but still want some of the modern luxuries when you’re ready to call it a day.

Lemon Cove Village RV Park

Located just 25 minutes from the entrance to Sequoia National Park, Lemon Cove Village RV Park is a smaller campground but it has some great facilities. This means you’ll get some of the home comforts you might otherwise miss when you’re on the road, but won’t have to worry about the crowds or noise of larger RV parks.

These facilities include 30-amp and 50-amp full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer connections. There are also restrooms with flush toilets, hot showers, a laundry room, WiFi, a dump station, an on-site store, and a fenced dog park. You’ll even find a swimming pool with a covered patio, lounge chairs, and table seating, which is ideal for relaxing after a day exploring the area’s hiking trails.

If you’re looking for a nice stop on your way to Sequoia National Park (or just fancy doing something a little different), you’re less than 10 minutes from Lake Kaweah when you stay at Lemon Cove. This is perfect for fishing, boating, or simply relaxing by the water. And, of course, once you’re in Sequoia, the opportunities for exploring are practically endless, with the General Sherman Tree and Moro Rock waiting for you to visit.

Final Thoughts

With your campgrounds sorted, the hardest part of your trip now will be deciding which trail to take next! And, with so much natural beauty to explore in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you’re guaranteed to want to spend as much time as possible discovering what’s out there.

This has never been easier when you hire a campervan from Travellers Autobarn. Not only do we have a huge selection of RVs to choose from, but our free unlimited miles mean that you’ll have the freedom to experience everything these parks have to offer at your own pace. So, grab your bags and hit the road – adventure awaits!

Interested in more? Some other articles you may enjoy:

• Guide to Free Camping in the USA
• Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Campervans in the USA
• Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan
• Ultimate National Parks Campervan Road Trip
• Best National Parks for a Campervan Winter Getaway

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