Need help finding hotel near Sequoia entrance

Question

My husband and I are driving from Vegas to Sequoia for the first time this June 1. We can not leave until the afternoon after conferences. I want to stay as close as possible to the entrance of Sequoia NP so we can get to the park early the next morning but the hotels in Three Rivers do not have the best reviews. Please let me know your experiences with hotels near Three Rivers. This is our first trip to California.

Answer

Staying near the entrance of Sequoia National Park is a smart choice, especially if you plan to enter the park early in the morning. The main gateway is in Three Rivers, which is about 15–20 minutes from the park’s Ash Mountain Entrance. While some reviews of local hotels are mixed, there are several options that balance convenience, comfort, and value.

Here are some considerations and hotel options near Three Rivers:

The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge: Located just a few minutes from the park entrance, this lodge offers rustic accommodations and a restaurant on-site. It’s very convenient for early park access, and many guests appreciate the proximity and the peaceful setting.
Comfort Inn & Suites Sequoia Kings Canyon: This is a more budget-friendly option with clean rooms, breakfast included, and a short drive to the park entrance. It’s suitable if you prioritize value over luxury.
Sequoia RiverDance Resort: A unique, boutique-style option with a focus on nature and tranquility. It’s a short drive from the park entrance and offers a more intimate experience compared to larger hotels in Three Rivers.
Airbnb or vacation rentals: If you prefer a private setting, there are some rentals near Three Rivers that have excellent reviews. These often offer a full kitchen and more space, which can be useful for early morning departures to the park.

Additional tips for your stay:

Book as early as possible, especially for June, as the area fills up quickly due to summer tourism.
Check for amenities such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, and parking if these are important to you. Many lodges have limited facilities, but the trade-off is proximity to the park.
Consider the style of accommodation that fits your preferences: rustic lodges for a true national park feel, or modern hotels for comfort and convenience.
Plan your arrival carefully, since leaving Vegas in the afternoon may mean driving through winding roads and variable traffic conditions; it’s usually a 6–7 hour drive.

Overall, prioritizing proximity to the Ash Mountain Entrance will save you time and allow for early exploration of the giant sequoias, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints in the park. Even if the hotels in Three Rivers are not luxurious, being close to the park entrance often outweighs the minor inconveniences.

Need help finding hotel near Sequoia entrance

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