california12

Hi
Searching for a FAMILY FRIENDLY tenting campsite near sequoia national park
Seems there are sooo many campsites....
Was wondering how difficult it is to get there?
I am very nervous driving on winding mountain roads - better said - I can't do that

spirobulldog

The roads there aren't really that bad. Maybe a bit, but i've been on far far worse roads. I even drove there is winter and didn't ever get worried.

Personally, I would stay inside the park rather than outside. I doubt that in the park there are showers, but I'm not totally sure about that. check the nps website.

You might want to make reservations to secure the spot you want too.

Jean

My first requirement is flush toilets. Sorry, I know that's not roughing it (or even camping to some people), but that's 'family friendly' in my book, especially in warm summer months.

You'll be in bear country, so you'll need to bring or rent food canisters. You'll have to lock up anything that has a scent (hand lotion, sun screen, bug spray, toothpaste -- ANYTHING).

It's been a very long time, but we used to go to the Cedar Grove area in Kings Canyon NP. There are lots of hiking options, showers and a market.

http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm

Otis_B_Driftwood

It's best to camp in the park but you need to make reservations. The campsites have bear lockers so you don't have to bring your own and they have flush toilets. Lodgepole has showers next to the Visitor Center and Store. There's washers and dryers there too.

http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm

If twisty roads are a problem, it's best to enter the Park from King's Canyon by taking CA 180 up from Fresno and then the General's Highway to Lodgepole. You will want to stop at Grant Grove too.

janisj

To emphasize what Jean and Otis say - EVERYTHING must be locked up. Not in your car, not in your tent - in the lockers. Food, Snacks, Sunscreen, Toiletries - everything.

You'd be amazed to see what a bear can do to a rental car while trying to get the goodies (and insurance might not cover the damage if they determine you left food in the car)

november_moon

Lodgepole is a good campground. Centrally located, good showers, even a small store for ice, milk, etc.

california12

Sorry I forgot to check your replies guys!
This forum is great, thanks soooo much.
Unfortunately, I tried booking Lodgepole but it's all full for July already
Seems like Azalea campsite has raving reviews, anyone been there?

Otis_B_Driftwood

Azalea is fine as is Sunset. No reservations there though. Make sure you choose a loop with a restroom. From some sites it's a long walk.

There's also Stony Creek and Upper Stony Creek which are closer to the Giant Forest. Did you check Dorst as well?