Staying in Sequoia National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of ancient giant sequoias and diverse ecosystems. From comfortable lodges to rustic campgrounds, the park provides various accommodation options for visitors. This guide details my experience staying in Sequoia National Park, including lodging choices, camping opportunities, activities, and breathtaking viewpoints that make this national park a must-visit destination.
Where Can I Find Lodging Options in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park offers several lodging options to suit different preferences and budgets:
Wuksachi Lodge
- Type: Mountain lodge
- Capacity: 102 spacious guest rooms
- Amenities:
- Full-service restaurant
- Pizza deck
- Retail shop
- Special event facilities
- Limited wireless internet
- Dog-friendly rooms
- Accessible rooms
- Complimentary self-parking
- Pricing: $200 to $400+ per night, varying by season and room type
- Booking: Call (866) 807-3598 or visit the official website
John Muir Lodge (Kings Canyon National Park)
- Type: Lodge
- Capacity: 36 rooms
- Amenities:
- Close to Grant Grove
- Dog-friendly rooms
- Basic amenities
- Pricing: $150 to $300 per night, seasonally dependent
- Booking: Through official park website or park lodging service
Grant Grove Cabins
- Type: Rustic cabins (timber and tent cabins)
- Capacity: Varies by cabin type
- Amenities:
- Basic amenities
- Proximity to Grant Grove Village
- Pricing: $100 to $250 per night, depending on cabin type
- Booking: Official park website or park lodging service
Cedar Grove Lodge (Seasonal)
- Type: Lodge
- Capacity: 21 guest rooms
- Amenities:
- Private bath
- Air conditioning
- Telephone
- Snack bar
- Market
- Gift shop
- Pricing: $150 to $300 per night
- Booking: Official park website or park lodging service (Note: Currently closed for the season)
What Camping Experiences Are Available in Sequoia National Park?
Camping in Sequoia National Park offers a more immersive experience in nature. Here’s what you need to know:
Campground Options
| Campground | Availability | Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lodgepole | Year-round | 214 | Flush toilets, potable water, dump station |
| Dorst Creek | Late May – Early Oct | 204 | Flush toilets, potable water |
| Atwell Mill | Late May – Early Oct | 21 | Vault toilets, no potable water |
| Cold Springs | Late May – Early Oct | 31 | Vault toilets, no potable water |
| Buckeye Flat | Late Mar – Early Nov | 28 | Vault toilets, potable water |
| Potwisha | Year-round | 42 | Flush toilets, potable water |
Reservation and Costs
- Make reservations through recreation.gov or call (877) 444-6777
- Some sites available on a first-come, first-served basis
- Fees range from $22 to $36 per night, depending on campground and amenities
What Activities Can I Enjoy During My Stay in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors:
Guided Tours
- Ranger-led Programs: Free guided walks, talks, and campfire programs
- Crystal Cave Tours: Guided cave tours (Fees: ~$16 for adults, $8 for children)
- Shuttle Tours: Free shuttle service to various park attractions
Hiking Trails
- Congress Trail: 2-mile loop, easy to moderate difficulty
- Moro Rock Trail: 1/4 mile steep climb, moderate difficulty
- Alta Peak Trail: 13-mile round trip, strenuous difficulty
- Tokopah Falls Trail: 3.5-mile round trip, moderate difficulty
Wildlife Viewing
- Observe black bears, mule deer, and various bird species
- No specific fees or permits required for general wildlife viewing
What Are the Best Viewpoints in Sequoia National Park?
Sequoia National Park boasts several stunning viewpoints:
General Sherman Tree
- Location: Giant Forest
- Accessibility: Short walk from parking area
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting
- Fees: No additional fees beyond park entrance
Moro Rock
- Location: Giant Forest
- Accessibility: Steep 1/4 mile climb to the top
- Best Time: Late afternoon for sunset views
- Fees: No additional fees beyond park entrance
Tokopah Falls
- Location: Tokopah Valley
- Accessibility: 3.5-mile round trip hike
- Best Time: Late spring and early summer for best water flow
- Fees: No additional fees beyond park entrance
Staying in Sequoia National Park offers a unique opportunity to experience the grandeur of nature up close. Whether you choose to lodge in comfort or camp under the stars, the park provides unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views that will stay with you long after your visit.
References:
1. Visit Sequoia: Stay in the Park
2. Visit Sequoia: Wuksachi Lodge
3. National Park Service: Sequoia & Kings Canyon Lodging