Kings Canyon National Park in California is a true natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to explore the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The park’s deep canyons and towering peaks offer a unique and breathtaking landscape that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The park is also home to the largest trees on earth, the giant sequoias, which are truly awe-inspiring and definitely worth a visit. The park also offers a wide range of recreational activities. They include hiking, camping, fishing and sightseeing, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, Kings Canyon National Park California is a must-see destination that offers something for everyone.

For a condensed view of the park feel free to check out rvResortScouts Kings Canyon National Park Information listing.

Park History / General Overview

Kings Canyon National Park has a rich history dating back thousands of years. The land that the park now occupies was originally home to the Mono, Paiute, and Yokut Native American tribes. They used the land for hunting, gathering, and cultural ceremonies.

In the 1800s, European settlers arrived in the area and began logging and mining. In 1940, the government set aside the area as a national park. This was in order to protect the giant sequoias, deep canyons, and rugged wilderness.

The park’s name honors the deep, glacier-carved Kings Canyon, which rivals the better-known and nearby Yosemite Valley in grandeur. The park also includes the General Grant Grove, home to the famous General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree on Earth.

Today, the park welcomes visitors from all over the world to explore and enjoy its natural beauty. Visitors can hike to the top of Panoramic Point for a stunning view of the park, wander through the groves of giant sequoias, and fish in the park’s rivers and streams. The park also offers ranger-led programs and educational opportunities. This is the perfect chance for visitors to learn more about the park’s history and natural resources.

Getting Oriented

Kings Canyon National Park is divided into two main sections: Grant Grove and Cedar Grove.

As mentioned before, Grant Grove is home to the famous General Grant Tree. The tree is the second-largest tree in the world. Visitors can take a short walk on the paved trail around the grove and admire this giant tree and other sequoias. The Grant Grove also offers several hiking trails, visitor center, and a gift shop. It is a perfect place to start your visit to the park and get oriented with the park’s resources.

Cedar Grove is the park’s wilder and more remote section, with deep canyons and rugged terrain. It is located at the end of a long and winding road that drops more than a mile into the canyon. Visitors can hike, backpack, and take a scenic drive to see the spectacular views of the canyon. The Cedar Grove also offers a campground, picnic area, and a ranger station. This section is only accessible by foot or horseback, and it is a perfect place for those who seek a more secluded and wild experience.

Please be aware that cell phone service is limited in Cedar Grove section. Because of this visitors should bring a map and compass. Also, visitors should be aware that the road to Cedar Grove is narrow, winding and steep, and it can be closed during winter and spring due to snow.

Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities such as fishing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or outdoor adventure, the Kings Canyon National Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Kings Canyon National Park California Essentials

To get to Kings Canyon National Park, visitors can fly into Fresno-Yosemite International Airport. The airport is about an hour’s drive from the park. You can reach the park by car from the south using Highway 180 or from the east using Highway 168. Visitors should also be aware that the roads to Cedar Grove are narrow, winding and steep. The park may close certain roads during heavy snowfall.

The park has rules and regulations that visitors must follow to protect the natural resources and ensure the safety of all park visitors. These include rules on camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

The park has a visitor center where visitors can get information, buy maps and souvenirs, and watch a park film. Park rangers are always available to answer questions and provide information about the park’s resources and activities.

Visitors should also be aware that cell phone service is limited in the park, so it is a good idea to bring a map and compass. The park also has bears, so it’s important to know how to store food properly and what to do if you encounter a bear.

Visitors should check the park’s website or call the park’s information line for current road and facility conditions before planning a visit.

Things To Know

There are a few things that visitors should know before visiting Kings Canyon National Park California.

First, visitors should be aware that the park is a wilderness area, and it can be challenging to hike and camp in the park. To ensure your safety, bring appropriate gear and clothing, and prepare for the conditions. Hikers should also be aware of the risks of altitude sickness, especially if you’re planning to hike to high elevations.

Second, visitors should be aware of the risks of bears and other wildlife. Visitors should store food properly and know what to do if they encounter a bear. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s regulations regarding wildlife viewing and photography.

Third, visitors should be aware of the risk of wildfires. The park can be closed during times of high fire danger, and visitors should be aware of the park’s fire regulations. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s smoking regulations.

Fourth, visitors should be aware of the park’s weather conditions. The park can be hot and dry in the summer, and visitors should bring plenty of water and sun protection. The park can also be cold and snowy in the winter, and visitors should bring appropriate gear and clothing.

Fifth, visitors should be aware of the park’s facilities and services. The park has several campgrounds, picnic areas, and a visitor center.

Best Hikes within Kings Canyon National Park California

Kings Canyon National Park offers a wide range of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels.

Here are some of the best hikes in the park:

1. Mist Falls – This hike is an easy 2.5 miles round-trip and leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail starts at the Road’s End parking area and follows the Bubbs Creek trail. The trail is well-marked, and you will encounter a moderate elevation gain. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon, and the sound of the river.
2. Zumwalt Meadow – This hike is a moderate 3 miles round-trip and takes you through a beautiful meadow with views of the surrounding mountains. The trail starts at the Zumwalt Meadow parking area and follows the Zumwalt Meadow trail. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the beautiful wildflowers and the sound of the river.
3. Roaring River Falls – This hike is a moderate 4 miles round-trip and leads to a stunning waterfall. The trail starts at the Roaring River Falls trailhead and follows the Roaring River trail. There is a moderate elevation gain on this trail.
4. Cedar Grove Trail – This hike is a moderate 8 miles round-trip and takes you through the remote Cedar Grove section of the park. The trail starts at the Cedar Grove trailhead and follows the trail to the canyon floor. Along the way, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the canyon, and the sound of the river.
5. Bubbs Creek Trail – This hike is a strenuous 8 miles round-trip and leads to a beautiful alpine lake. The trail starts at the Road’s End parking area and follows the Bubbs Creek trail. There is a steep elevation gain on this trail.

Accommodations

Kings Canyon National Park California offers a variety of accommodations for visitors. The park has several campgrounds for tent camping and RV camping. The campgrounds have running water, toilets, and fire rings. Some campgrounds also have showers and RV hookups. Visitors can reserve campsites online or by phone. We highly recommend making a reservation for the campground, especially during the summer months.

Backcountry camping is also allowed in the park, but a permit is required. Visitors can obtain a permit at the park’s visitor center. Backcountry camping is a great way to experience the park’s wilderness, but visitors should be aware that it can be challenging, and it requires proper planning, gear and training.

The park also has several nearby towns that offer hotel and lodging options. Visitors can find a variety of accommodations such as hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals. Visitors should make reservations well in advance, especially during the summer months, as the park can be very busy.

Safety Within Kings Canyon National Park

Safety is a top priority at Kings Canyon National Park, and visitors should be aware of the risks and hazards associated with wilderness areas.

First, visitors should be aware of the risks of hiking and camping in the wilderness. You must have the appropriate gear before attempting a hike. Hikers should also be aware of the risks of altitude sickness, especially if you’re planning to hike to high elevations.

Second, visitors should be aware of the risks of bears and other wildlife. Visitors should store food properly and know what to do if they encounter a bear. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s regulations regarding wildlife viewing and photography.

Third, visitors should be aware of the risk of wildfires. The park can be closed during times of high fire danger, and visitors should be aware of the park’s fire regulations. Visitors should also be aware of the park’s smoking regulations.

Fourth, visitors should be aware of the park’s weather conditions. The park can be hot and dry in the summer, and visitors should bring plenty of water and sun protection. The park can also be cold and snowy in the winter, and visitors should bring appropriate gear and clothing.

Lastly, in case of emergency, visitors should call 911 or report to the nearest ranger station or visitor center. Park rangers are available to assist visitors 24 hours a day.

What’s In The Surrounding Area

Kings Canyon National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California and offers visitors a wide range of activities and attractions in the surrounding area.

One of the nearby attractions is Sequoia National Park, which is located just east of Kings Canyon National Park. This park is home to the largest trees on earth, the giant sequoias, and offers a wide range of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing. Visitors can also explore the park’s beautiful groves of giant sequoias, including the famous General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree in the world.

Another nearby attraction is the Sierra Nevada Mountains, which offer a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, fishing, and skiing. Visitors can also explore the beautiful mountain scenery, including high-elevation lakes, and glaciers.

The town of Visalia is located near the park and offers visitors a variety of services, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also explore the town’s historic downtown, which features Victorian architecture and a variety of museums.

The city of Fresno, which is the closest major city, offers visitors a wide range of services, such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can also explore the city’s cultural attractions, such as the Fresno Art Museum and the Forestiere Underground Gardens.

Additionally, visitors can enjoy the many outdoor recreational opportunities such as rafting, rock climbing, and mountain biking in the surrounding area, with many outfitters and guides that can help visitors to explore and experience the Sierra Nevada mountains in a safe and enjoyable way.

Kings Canyon National Park Wrap Up

Kings Canyon National Park California is a beautiful and diverse park with many opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring. Visitors should be prepared for the wilderness and follow the rules and regulations to protect the natural resources. Whether you’re interested in giant sequoias, deep canyons, or stunning waterfalls, Kings Canyon National Park has something for everyone to enjoy.