If you want to feel the true power of nature, one of the best places to do it is in California’s “Land of Giants.” Sequoia National Park has the largest trees in the world, as well as some of the most dramatic landscapes, so it is the perfect place to sleep under the stars. The ideal location to do just that is the Lodgepole Campground in the center of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The campground is situated on the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, close to Lodgepole Village.
From this perfect spot, it is easy to get to the park’s top attractions. It is only a short journey to top attractions such as the famous Sherman Tree and Moro Rock. There is even a free shuttle bus to take you to the Giant Forest from the campground. For those who love to get as close as possible to jaw-dropping scenery, this campground is a wonderful place to commune with nature.
Know before you go
A park entrance seven-day pass for Sequoia and Kings Canyon is $20 for a single person (entering via shuttle), $30 for a motorbike, and $35 for a private vehicle. It can be booked in advance at the government’s recreation website. Lodgepole Campground is generally open from the end of April until the end of November and closes for winter. All of the sites require a reservation, which can be made four months in advance and there are 214 sites available in total. Five of the sites have spaces to accommodate RVs and trailers. Dogs are welcome too!
It costs $32 per campsite for one night, with a discounted price of $16 for an access or senior pass. The adjacent Lodgepole Village has some great amenities which include a visitor center, post office, deli, market, showers, and restrooms. Bears do abound around Lodgepole so lockers are provided to store any food that will attract them. Another great lodging is Wuksachi Lodge which is close to Lodgepole Campground.
Things to do near Lodgepole Campground
One of the best things to do in Sequoia is go for a hike and there are many great trails near Lodgepole Campground. From the site, there is an easy route to Tokopah Falls which is 1.7 miles long. Elsewhere in the park are the Big Trees and General Sherman Tree trails, both of which are accessible. General Sherman is the largest tree in the world and an incredible sight to behold when you get there.
For those who want to see breathtaking park views, head up Moro Rock, a granite dome with steps and a handrail to help you climb it. There are several other domes in the park which can be hiked and are also suitable for rock climbing. Visitors can tour Crystal Cave from spring until fall, and this marble cavern is a stunning way to see inside this epic national park. If you love wildlife, be on the look out for black bears, mule deer, pikas, and mountain lions along the trails. Those staying at Lodgepole Campground may find the wildlife comes to you as deer sometimes pass through, much to the campers’ delight!
