Sequoia National PArk
Embarking on a van camping trip from San Diego, California, to Sequoia National Park is a journey through diverse landscapes and ancient forests that culminates in an encounter with some of the largest living organisms on Earth.
The journey from San Diego to Sequoia National Park spans approximately 300 miles and offers a scenic drive through California's diverse landscapes. Travelers can take Interstate 15 northward, passing through the inland valleys and agricultural regions of Central California, before connecting to State Route 99 and State Route 198, which leads directly to the park's entrance.
In Sequoia National Park, travelers will encounter some of the largest and oldest trees on Earth—the giant sequoias. These towering giants, which can reach heights of over 300 feet and diameters of 30 feet or more, inspire awe and wonder in all who behold them. Visitors can explore groves of sequoias along scenic hiking trails, including the famous General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume.
Whether you're a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking solace amidst towering giants, Sequoia offers a wealth of activities to satisfy every traveler's thirst for adventure. Let's explore the top activities that visitors flock to Sequoia to experience:
Journeying Among Giants: A Van Camping Expedition from San Diego to Sequoia National Park
Camping:
Lodgepole Campground
Amenities: A popular spot for RV camping near Sequoia National Park, Lodgepole Campground, is located just two miles from the Giant Forest, where visitors can walk among the sequoias. A free shuttle runs from the campground to the forest for easy access. The campground has a dump station and water station for RVs and allows generators at certain hours of the day.
Capacity: Lodgepole is a large campground that has 214 sites available in the warm summer months. Between May and September, reservations are available. But the rest of the year, sites are first-come, first-served.
Price: $28 per night
More information: Lodgepole Campground
Azalea Campground
Amenities: If you are looking for RV parks near Sequoia National Park within walking distance of the General Grant Grove, Azalea Campground is ideal. The campground has ranger programs and allows generators until 9 p.m.
Capacity: Site availability depends on the time of year at Azalea Campground. According to the National Park Service:
Early November to mid-April: 20 sites
Mid-April to early May: 40-88 sites
Mid-May to early November: 110 sites
Price: $28 per night
More information: Azalea Campground
Dorst Creek Campground
Amenities: Dorst Creek Campground is centrally located between Grant Grove and Giant Forest. The free Sequoia Shuttle runs through the grounds to the forest for visitors to easily explore the area. This campground also has a dump station for RVs, allows generators, and is pet-friendly.
Capacity: There are 218 sites available for small groups at this campground. If you are RV camping in Sequoia National Park with a large group (15-30 people), Dorst Creek Campground has four sites that can accommodate your group.
Price: $28 per night
More information: Dorst Creek Campground
Princess Campground
Amenities: Princess Campground is located three miles from beautiful Hume Lake. There is an amphitheater on the grounds for campers to gather at. There are guided hikes available and a dump station for RVs.
Capacity: There are 90 camping sites available at this campground. The majority of these are open to RVs. Princess Campground is open from late May to mid-September.
Price: Starting at $32 per night
More information: Princess Campground
Sequoia RV Ranch
Amenities: Just eight miles from the park entrance, Sequoia RV Ranch is a great choice among RV parks near Sequoia National Park. The campground has full hookups. In other words, visitors can use water, electrical, and sewer connection services while RV camping. There is a self-service RV wash located on the grounds. Sequoia RV Ranch also sells RV supplies and offers off-site activities, including boat rentals and horseback riding.
Capacity: Unlike many of the other Sequoia National Park RV sites, there are limited spots at this campground. There are 47 sites and reservations are available on the campground website.
Price: Starting at $51 per night
More information: Sequoia RV Ranch
Potwisha Campground
Amenities: Potwisha Campground has pull-through sites and dump stations for RVs. Pets are allowed, and ranger programs run from July to early September. When making reservations, there is an option available to filter available campsites based on the length of your RV.
Capacity: There are 42 sites at Potwisha Campground. At 2,100 feet, this campground is at a lower elevation than many on our list. Because of this, it is open all year to visitors.
Price: $28 per night
More information: Potwisha Campground
Marvel at the Giant Sequoias:
Sequoia National Park is renowned for its ancient forests of giant sequoias, some of which are thousands of years old and tower over 300 feet tall. A visit to Sequoia wouldn't be complete without marveling at these majestic trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. Take a stroll through the Giant Forest, home to several groves of sequoias, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring presence of these towering giants.
Hiking:
With over 800 miles of hiking trails winding through Sequoia's diverse landscapes, there's no shortage of opportunities for exploration on foot. From leisurely nature walks to challenging summit hikes, there's a trail for every skill level and interest. Popular hikes include the Congress Trail, which loops through the heart of the Giant Forest, offering close-up views of several impressive sequoias, and the Moro Rock Trail, which leads to a granite dome with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Visit Crystal Cave:
Explore the subterranean world beneath Sequoia National Park by embarking on a guided tour of Crystal Cave, a stunning marble cavern adorned with intricate formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones. Led by knowledgeable park rangers, these tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the park's geological history and provide a cool respite from the summer heat.
Scenic Drives:
Experience the beauty of Sequoia from the comfort of your vehicle by embarking on one of the park's scenic drives. The Generals Highway winds through towering forests, granite cliffs, and alpine meadows, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Don't miss the opportunity to drive through the Tunnel Log, a fallen sequoia that serves as a unique roadside attraction and photo opportunity.
Wildlife Watching:
Sequoia National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, mule deer, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings as you explore the park's trails and meadows, and be sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching opportunities. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and follow park guidelines to ensure their safety and yours.
Photography:
Capture the beauty of Sequoia National Park through the lens of your camera and create lasting memories of your visit. From sunrise over the mist-shrouded forests to sunset casting golden hues over granite peaks, every moment in Sequoia offers a photo-worthy opportunity. Be sure to explore lesser-known areas of the park, such as Crescent Meadow and the Tokopah Falls Trail, for unique perspectives and compositions..
Best activities in sequoia national Park
From marveling at the giant sequoias to embarking on scenic hikes and exploring subterranean caverns, Sequoia National Park offers a wealth of activities for adventurers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you're seeking solitude amidst ancient forests or embarking on outdoor adventures with friends and family, Sequoia promises unforgettable experiences and memories to last a lifetime. So pack your camera, lace up your hiking boots, and prepare to discover the majesty of Sequoia on your next national park adventure.
Marvel at the Giant Sequoias:
Sequoia National Park is renowned for its ancient forests of giant sequoias, some of which are thousands of years old and tower over 300 feet tall. A visit to Sequoia wouldn't be complete without marveling at these majestic trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. Take a stroll through the Giant Forest, home to several groves of sequoias, and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring presence of these towering giants.
Hiking:
With over 800 miles of hiking trails winding through Sequoia's diverse landscapes, there's no shortage of opportunities for exploration on foot. From leisurely nature walks to challenging summit hikes, there's a trail for every skill level and interest. Popular hikes include the Congress Trail, which loops through the heart of the Giant Forest, offering close-up views of several impressive sequoias, and the Moro Rock Trail, which leads to a granite dome with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.