Sequoia Nat Park-2-3 day camping trip

Question

Hi all,

I’m planning a 2-3day tent camping trip in Sequoia NP, around June 19-23, and I wonder if anyone could recommend best places to camp as a solo traveler and any websites that might offer last min camping cancellations? Assuming the park’s campsites might be pretty full at this time of year.

I visited General Sherman last year, so would like to break away from the busy areas and perhaps do a 4-6 mile hike per day. Any recommendations for that?

Thanks kindly!

Answer

For a 2-3 day tent camping trip in Sequoia National Park around June 19-23, planning ahead is key as campsites fill up quickly during summer. Since you’re a solo traveler and want to avoid the busiest areas like the General Sherman tree vicinity, there are quieter campgrounds and trails that provide a more peaceful experience.

Campgrounds Recommendations:

Lodgepole Campground: This is central and offers access to multiple trailheads. While it’s popular, the upper loop tends to be quieter. It has amenities like potable water and restrooms.
Potwisha Campground: Located at lower elevation, it’s less crowded and a good starting point for hikes into less-traveled areas. Best for those who prefer a more laid-back atmosphere.
Crane Flat / Dorst Creek Campground: These are in the less-visited areas toward the western part of the park. They provide good access to moderate 4-6 mile hikes without the heavy tourist traffic.
Backcountry Camping: If you’re comfortable with backcountry permits, you can hike into more remote areas like the Alta Peak trail or along the High Sierra Trail section toward Hamilton Lakes. A free backcountry permit from the park is required.

Hiking Recommendations (4-6 miles per day):

Lunch Loop / Crescent Meadow: Offers a quiet 4-5 mile hike with giant sequoias and less crowd than the main Sherman area.
Moro Rock + Panorama Trail (short loop): You can combine Moro Rock with a small section of the Panorama Trail for scenic views without the busy crowds.
Watkins Glen or Tokopah Falls: Great mid-length hikes with waterfalls and fewer people, especially early in the morning.
High Sierra Trail segments: Even just doing a day portion from Crescent Meadow gives you solitude among the trees and wildflower meadows.

Last-Minute Campsite Options:

Check the official National Park Service reservation site, Recreation.gov, for cancellations.
Use apps like Campendium or The Dyrt to find nearby private or forest service campgrounds that may have availability at the last minute.
Arrive early in the day and inquire at the ranger stations about any walk-up or first-come-first-served sites, especially at Potwisha and Dorst Creek.

Tips for solo camping in Sequoia:

Stick to well-marked trails and campgrounds for safety.
Bring bear-proof storage and follow all park guidelines for food storage.
Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for peaceful hiking and photography.

With these options, you can enjoy a quieter, more immersive experience in Sequoia NP, away from the busy General Sherman crowds, while still having access to great hiking and amenities as needed.

Sequoia Nat Park-2-3 day camping trip

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