Best campground to experience both parks

Question

Hi all!

My wife and I are headed to SeKi this early summer, planning to spend either 2 or 3 nights camping. We will be arriving from Yosemite, and departing southeast the last day, towards Morro Bay.

Considering our short time in the parks, it seems like a single, centrally-located campground sounds like a more efficient idea than moving between campgrounds. Do you agree with that statement? If so, which campground would you recommend in terms of location, scenery and accessibility to the major areas of both Kings Canyon and Sequoia?

Thank you very much!

Answer

Your idea of staying at a single, centrally-located campground for a 2-3 night stay is a great approach, especially considering your limited time in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (SeKi). This allows you to avoid the hassle of packing up and moving campsites while still experiencing the best of both parks. The key is finding a campground that offers easy access to the major areas of both parks and provides a memorable natural setting. Here are some recommendations to help you plan your stay:

1. Lodgepole Campground (Sequoia National Park)
Lodgepole Campground is one of the most popular and centrally-located campgrounds in Sequoia National Park, making it a great base for exploring both Sequoia and Kings Canyon. It’s just a short distance from key highlights like the Giant Forest (home to the famous General Sherman Tree), Moro Rock, and Crescent Meadow. It also provides access to the scenic roads that lead to Kings Canyon, including the Generals Highway. The campground itself is well-shaded and has a nice, quiet atmosphere, with a mix of tent and RV sites.

Proximity to major attractions: Located near the Giant Forest, it's within a reasonable drive to both Sequoia and Kings Canyon highlights. This makes it an ideal spot to minimize driving time and maximize your time in the parks.
Scenic and accessible: The campground is set in a picturesque location by the Kaweah River, surrounded by towering trees, which adds to the immersive experience of staying in Sequoia.
Facilities: It has flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store. The only drawback is that it can fill up quickly, especially during the summer, so reservations are strongly recommended.

2. Sunset Campground (Sequoia National Park)
Another great option in Sequoia National Park is Sunset Campground, which is located at a slightly higher elevation (about 7,000 feet). While it’s a bit farther from the Giant Forest, it offers a quieter, more secluded camping experience, with spectacular views over the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Proximity to major attractions: Though it’s a little farther from the Giant Forest and main Sequoia sites, it’s still relatively close and provides a peaceful atmosphere for relaxing after a day of hiking and sightseeing.
Scenic setting: The campground is perched on a ridge, offering panoramic views of the park and beautiful sunsets.
Accessibility: This campground is also close to the road leading into Kings Canyon, making it easy to access both parks. The drive to the General Grant Tree in Kings Canyon is about 45 minutes.

3. Dorst Creek Campground (Sequoia National Park)
Dorst Creek is another solid option in Sequoia, located just a short drive from the Giant Forest. It offers a nice compromise between Lodgepole and Sunset campgrounds, as it’s more secluded but still centrally located for easy access to both parks. It’s a great choice if you want a peaceful setting with easy access to hiking trails and the main attractions in both Sequoia and Kings Canyon.

Proximity to major attractions: Located near the Giant Forest, it’s a short drive to popular spots like Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, and the General Sherman Tree. It’s also an easy drive to Kings Canyon via the Generals Highway.
Scenic and quiet: This campground is more peaceful and less crowded than Lodgepole, offering a more relaxing experience in the heart of Sequoia.
Accessibility: The road to Dorst Creek Campground is usually open in early summer, but it’s always good to check current road conditions before your trip.

4. Campgrounds in Kings Canyon
If you prefer staying in Kings Canyon, there are several campgrounds near the park entrance, including the popular Crystal Springs Campground and Azalea Campground, which are located closer to the main attractions in Kings Canyon, like General Grant Grove. However, these are farther from Sequoia, so if you’re looking for a central location between both parks, it’s better to stick to the Sequoia side.

Recommendation:
For the most efficient and enjoyable experience, I would recommend Lodgepole Campground as your primary choice. It strikes the best balance between proximity to major attractions in both parks, beautiful scenery, and accessibility. If you prefer a quieter experience, Sunset or Dorst Creek Campgrounds are excellent alternatives, with Sunset offering more solitude and Dorst Creek providing a balance between tranquility and convenience.

Other Tips:
- If you’re visiting in early summer, make sure to reserve your campsite early, as these campgrounds can fill up quickly. - Check the weather and road conditions, as some areas, especially in Kings Canyon, can have snow or road closures in early summer. - Bring layers, as temperatures can vary greatly, especially at higher elevations. Even in summer, it can get chilly at night.

Enjoy your trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon—there's nothing like camping surrounded by giant sequoias and stunning mountain landscapes!