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Where to Stay in Sequoia National Park

Where to Stay in Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park California, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

In-Park Options

  • Lodges:

    Full-service hotels within the park, run by the park's concessionaire. Wuksachi Lodge is the main lodge in Sequoia National Park. These feature comfortable rooms, dining, and amenities.

  • Cabins:

    Simpler, rustic lodging, especially at Grant Grove in Kings Canyon National Park (which is accessible from Sequoia). Some cabins have private baths, others shared. They offer a closer-to-nature feel.

  • Campgrounds:

    Designated sites for tents and RVs throughout the park. Amenities range from primitive sites with pit toilets to those with flush toilets and potable water.

  • Wilderness Camping:

    Multi-day backcountry trips with a wilderness permit. The most remote and immersive experience for experienced hikers. Self-sufficiency and Leave No Trace principles are important.

Outside-Park Options

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartment Options:

    Outside the park, in gateway towns like Three Rivers, a variety of vacation rentals, cabins, and apartment options appear. These often feature more space, kitchen facilities, and a wider range of amenities.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism Opportunities:

    While not directly within the park, some unique homestay options or small, locally-run accommodations exist in the broader region surrounding the park. A chance to connect with local communities is present.

  • Hotels & Motels:

    Gateway towns offer standard hotel and motel lodging, from budget-friendly to more upscale, depending on your distance from the park.

  • Bed & Breakfasts:

    Some charming B&Bs exist in nearby towns, offering a more personalized stay with breakfast included.

Neighborhood Guide

Sequoia National Park and its surrounding areas offer distinct characteristics for lodging.

Three Rivers Outside Park, South Entrance

Benefits
  • Closest private lodging to the park's main entrance.
  • More diverse dining and lodging options.
  • A base if you prefer amenities outside the park's immediate confines.
  • Generally considered a safe area.
Considerations
  • Daily driving into the park is necessary.
  • A 20-30 minute drive to the Foothills Visitor Center.
  • Another 45-60 minutes to reach the Giant Forest area.
  • This increases daily driving time.

Grant Grove Area Kings Canyon NP

Benefits
  • Centrally located for exploring both Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
  • Good access to amenities and the General Grant Tree.
  • A base if you plan to divide your time between the two parks.
  • Forested area with giant sequoia groves.
Considerations
  • Busy, especially during peak season.
  • Can feel crowded.

Lodgepole Area Within Sequoia NP

Benefits
  • Central location for Giant Forest activities.
  • Shuttle access to major attractions.
  • Amenities like a store and showers add convenience.
  • Main summer hub in Sequoia National Park.
Considerations
  • Very crowded.
  • Campground sees quick bookings.
  • Can be noisy.
  • Competitive reservations.

Other Areas:

Giant Forest Area (Within Sequoia NP):

Direct access is present for the park's most famous attractions. High elevation means cooler temperatures. Higher visitor traffic during peak season. Wuksachi Lodge often sees bookings far in advance.

Mineral King Area (Within Sequoia NP):

A remote, high-elevation valley. A genuine wilderness feel exists with fewer crowds. An excellent starting point for serious hikers. Access road closes much of the year. No services in this area.

Booking Strategies

Booking your accommodation far in advance is a recommendation, especially for in-park options.

Advance Booking & Platforms

  • Booking in-park lodging and campgrounds is compulsory, specifically during summer (high season) and holidays. For peak times, book 6-12 months ahead for your preferred spot.
  • In-Park Lodges (Wuksachi Lodge, Grant Grove Cabins, Cedar Grove Lodge): Book directly through the park concessionaire's website, Visit Sequoia.
  • NPS Campgrounds: Make reservations through Recreation.gov. Many campgrounds have reservable status 6 months in advance. Some operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with early arrival needed.
  • Outside Park: For hotels and vacation rentals in Three Rivers or other nearby towns, use reputable online travel agencies.

Policies & Pricing

  • Walk-in rates are not customary for in-park lodging or campgrounds due to high demand. For lodging outside the park, negotiation likewise is not typical, especially during busy seasons.
  • Deposit and cancellation policies vary by booking platform and property. Review terms and conditions carefully before confirming your reservation. Know cancellation deadlines and any associated fees.
  • Accommodation prices are highest during the summer and major U.S. Holidays. They are lowest during the winter, when many facilities close or operate on a limited schedule.
  • For broader hotel search, consider platforms like Booking.com or Agoda. For vacation rentals, Vrbo is a good choice.

Consider Unique Stays:

Homestays & Specialty Rentals:
  • Consider looking for unique homestays or specialty rentals near the park.
  • These can sometimes offer a more authentic regional experience.
  • Check platforms like TrustedHousesitters for house/pet sitting exchanges.
  • Smaller local accommodations sometimes list on broader booking sites.
Budget Alternatives:
  • For budget-conscious travelers, hostels in larger nearby towns might be an option.
  • Explore sites like Hostelworld for dormitory or private rooms.
  • Primitive campgrounds are often the most affordable in-park options.
  • Staying further from the park entrance can yield lower prices.

Important Note:

Park Road Closures:

Sections of Generals Highway and other park roads close seasonally due to snow, impacting access to certain areas and lodging.

Cell Service:

Cell phone service is limited or non-existent in many areas of the park, including at some lodges and campgrounds.

Early Booking:

Early booking is a must, especially for summer and holiday periods, to avoid disappointment.

Accommodation Recommendations

This table features recommendations for various travel styles and budgets.

In-Park Lodging

Wuksachi Lodge Hotel

Location: Giant Forest

  • Price Range: $250 - $400+
  • The only full-service lodge in Sequoia NP, with modern rooms, and a central location.
  • Higher price.
  • Books quickly, limited availability.
Grant Grove Cabins Cabins

Location: Grant Grove, Kings Canyon

  • Price Range: $150 - $300
  • Rustic charm, close to General Grant Tree, useful amenities, a base for both parks.
  • Some cabins are very basic.
  • Shared baths are available for some units.

Campgrounds

Lodgepole Campground Camping

Location: Lodgepole

  • Price Range: $30 - $35
  • Central for Giant Forest, shuttle access, amenities (store, showers, deli).
  • Fills very quickly.
  • Noisy, busy, competitive reservations.
Potwisha Campground Camping

Location: Foothills

  • Price Range: $22 - $28
  • Open year-round, warmer temperatures, easier access in winter, suitable for early/late season.
  • Far from giant sequoias (1 hour drive).
  • Hot in summer.

Outside Park Hotels

  • The Gateway Restaurant & Lodge (Hotel/Restaurant):

    Location: Three Rivers. Price Range: $150 - $300+. Closest private lodging to park entrance, riverfront. Not inside the park, daily drive up mountain.

  • Hotels in Visalia:

    Location: Visalia (approx. 1-1.5 hrs from park entrance). Price Range: $100 - $250+. Wider range of choices, amenities, and dining. Further drive to park.

  • Vacation Rentals in Three Rivers:

    Location: Three Rivers. Price Range: $200 - $600+. More space, kitchens, privacy. Not inside park, daily drive needed.

  • Booking Link:

    For outside-park lodging, check Booking.com or Vrbo.

Special Considerations

  • Family-Friendly Options:

    Many campgrounds have suitability for families. Grant Grove Cabins or the John Muir Lodge in Kings Canyon (also run by Visit Sequoia) also work well for families.

  • Solo Traveler Recommendations:

    Campgrounds offer community, or a budget-friendly cabin has solitude.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations:

    Vacation rentals in Three Rivers or longer campground stays offer cost-effective options for extended visits.

  • Properties with Cultural/Historical Significance:

    While Sequoia's lodges are newer, the historical context of staying within a national park has an unique appeal.

Note on Prices

Price Estimates

Prices listed are estimates and can change based on season, demand, and availability. Weekends and holidays see higher prices.

  • Always check current rates when booking.
  • In-park lodging typically costs more than outside the park.
  • Campground fees are generally fixed.
  • Consider booking off-peak for better value.
Best Value

For best value, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when prices are lower and crowds are thinner, but most facilities remain open.

  • Look for weekday stays if flexibility permits.
  • Self-catering saves significantly on food costs.
  • Utilize park shuttles to save on fuel and parking.
  • Check for national park pass benefits if you visit frequently.

Booking Links Summary

In-Park Lodges

Book through Visit Sequoia for Wuksachi Lodge, Grant Grove Cabins, and Cedar Grove Lodge.

NPS Campgrounds

Reservations are at Recreation.gov.

Outside Park

For hotels and rentals, explore Booking.com, Agoda, or Vrbo.