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Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Sequoia National Park, California · Tulare County · Campground

Overview Dorst Creek Campground is located in the breathtaking Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in central California's rugged Sierra Nevada range. The campground is perched at an elevation of 6,700 ft., on the banks of scenic Dorst Creek. Several meadows surround the campground and a number of small streams flo…

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About Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Overview Dorst Creek Campground is located in the breathtaking Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in central California's rugged Sierra Nevada range. The campground is perched at an elevation of 6,700 ft., on the banks of scenic Dorst Creek. Several meadows surround the campground and a number of small streams flow through the site. A handful of popular day-hikes begin from or near the campground, including the trail to Lost Grove, a 57-acre grove containing 15 beautiful sequoias.Recreation Dorst Creek lies in the Giant Forest region of Sequoia National Park, where forty miles of trails invite visitors to immerse themselves in the majesty of the ancient groves. Several additional popular hiking and wilderness trailheads are close by, including the Big Trees Trail and the trail to Moro Rock, a granite dome with spectacular views of the Great Western Divide and western half of the park. Tokopah Falls Trail is an easy walk along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, leading to an impressive 1,200 ft. waterfall. Fly-fishing is a popular activity on Dorst Creek and the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River.Facilities The campground is very popular with tent and RV campers alike. It has paved roads, flush toilets, and drinking water, but no electricity. Picnic tables, fire rings, and bear food storage boxes are provided at each site. A free dump station is located on-site. Lodgepole Village is nine miles away, offering a visitor center, nightly Interpretive Ranger programs, a market, deli, snack bar, gift shop, post office, coin-operated showers and laundry facilities.Natural Features Lodgepole pine, red fir, and shrubs forest the campground, while towering groves of giant sequoias and craggy granite peaks dot the landscape. This region is characterized by warm days and cool nights in the summer and deep snow and cold days in the winter. Nearby Attractions The inspiring Giant Forest Grove, General Sherman Tree, General Grant Tree, Moro Rock and Tunnel Log are just 9-17 mile

How to Get There

Both roads leading to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks approach from the west. They are open all day, every day, depending on weather. From the east, no roads reach the park boundary. The main park road, The Generals Highway, connects the north and south entrances. Winter storms may cause temporary closures from Grant Grove to Lodgepole. It takes about 1 1/4 hours to drive to the campground from the south park entrance (198E) or 45 minutes from the north park entrance (180E). Notice: Vehicles longer than 22 feet (including trailers) are not advised between Potwisha Campground and the Giant Forest Museum. Visitors with vehicles over 22 feet in total length hoping to visit the Giant Forest or camp at Lodgepole and Dorst Creek Campgrounds are advised to enter via the northern, Highway 180, entrance to these parks. Arriving from the south (Highway 198): From Highways 65 or 99, go east on Highway 198E. Follow signs for Sequoia National Park to the park entrance. Highway 180E may be reached from Highway 198E using Highway 63N from Visalia. Arriving from the north (Highway 180): From Fresno, take Highway 180E, following signs to Kings Canyon National Park. Once in the park, follow signs to Sequoia National Park and Lodgepole.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Heading to Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park?

No central reservation system listed for Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232460) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park?

Both roads leading to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks approach from the west. They are open all day, every day, depending on weather. From the east, no roads reach the park boundary. The main park road, The Generals Highway, connects the north and south entrances. Winter storms may cause temporary closures from Grant Grove to Lodgepole. It takes about 1 1/4 hours to drive to the campground…

How do I contact Dorst Creek Campground-Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park?

You can reach the park at phone: 559-565-3341 or email: Ed_Huston@nps.gov.