California / Tulare County / Sequoia National Park

Dorst Creek Campground-sequoia And Kings Canyon National Park

Closed — Closed for the 2025 season. The campground will not open this year. When operational, the campground typically opens mid-June and closes late August or early September, depending on weather conditions.

About

Dorst Creek Campground is perched at 6,700 feet elevation on the banks of Dorst Creek in the breathtaking Giant Forest region of Sequoia National Park. The campground features 218 individual campsites and 4 group sites nestled among lodgepole pine and red fir forest, with several meadows and small streams flowing through the area. The location provides excellent access to forty miles of trails through ancient sequoia groves, including the nearby trail to Lost Grove, a 57-acre grove containing 15 magnificent sequoias. The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the park's iconic attractions. Popular hikes include the Big Trees Trail, Moro Rock (a granite dome with spectacular views of the Great Western Divide), and Tokopah Falls Trail, an easy walk along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River leading to an impressive 1,200-foot waterfall. Fly-fishing is popular on both Dorst Creek and the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River. The inspiring General Sherman Tree, General Grant Tree, Giant Forest Museum, and Lodgepole Visitor Center are all within 9-17 miles. Vehicles longer than 22 feet (including trailers) should enter via the northern Highway 180 entrance, as the southern route via Highway 198 has restrictions. The campground typically experiences warm days and cool nights in summer, with deep snow and cold temperatures in winter. Crystal Cave tours, Crescent Meadow, and numerous other attractions are within easy driving distance.

Directions

Both roads to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks approach from the west; no roads reach the park from the east. From the south, take Highway 198E following signs to Sequoia National Park (about 1.25 hours from entrance to campground). From the north, take Highway 180E to Kings Canyon National Park, then follow signs to Sequoia National Park and Lodgepole (about 45 minutes from entrance to campground). Vehicles longer than 22 feet should use the northern Highway 180 entrance, as the southern route has restrictions between Potwisha Campground and Giant Forest Museum.

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