Lodgepole Campground – Sequoia National Park, California

Lodgepole Campground is one of the most popular and centrally located campgrounds in Sequoia National Park, offering scenic riverside sites, modern amenities, and quick access to the park’s most iconic attractions. Situated along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River and surrounded by towering pines and granite ridges, Lodgepole provides a comfortable, well-equipped basecamp for exploring giant sequoia groves, waterfall hikes, and high-country wilderness trails. Its blend of natural beauty and convenience makes it a favorite for families, first-time visitors, and seasoned national park campers alike.

Location & Setting

Located at approximately 6,700 feet in elevation, Lodgepole Campground sits just two miles from the Giant Forest, home to the General Sherman Tree — the world’s largest tree by volume. The campground is positioned along the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, with many loops offering the soothing sound of flowing water. It is also within walking distance of the Lodgepole Visitor Center and the Lodgepole Market & Gift Shop, making it one of the most convenient camping hubs in the park. The surrounding terrain includes dense conifer forest, granite outcrops, and easy access to the high-country wilderness beyond Tokopah Valley.

Campground Overview

Lodgepole Campground is large and well-developed, with over 200 sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs (though larger rigs may find some loops tight). Sites range from open, sunny pads to shaded river-adjacent locations, offering a variety of experiences depending on preference. The layout creates a village-like feel, yet many sites maintain ample privacy thanks to natural vegetation and the sound of the river. The campground typically operates from spring through fall, with summer being the busiest season due to its prime location and wide range of amenities.

Amenities

Lodgepole offers some of the best amenities available in Sequoia National Park. Campsites include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-resistant food lockers. Flush toilets and potable water are available throughout the campground, and a modern shower facility operates seasonally near the market. The Lodgepole Market provides groceries, hot food, camping supplies, ice, and firewood, while the visitor center offers interpretive exhibits, ranger programs, and trail information. A free shuttle connects the campground to the Giant Forest, Wolverton, and other key areas during peak season, reducing the need to move your vehicle once settled.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

Lodgepole provides immediate access to some of the park’s top hikes and scenic highlights. The Tokopah Falls Trail begins near the campground and follows the river to a stunning 1,200-foot cascade framed by granite cliffs. The Giant Forest, with its groves of massive sequoias, is minutes away via shuttle or a short drive. Wolverton offers access to higher-elevation trails, including routes toward the Lakes Trail and Pear Lake. Wildlife viewing is common around camp, and the riverbanks provide relaxing spots for picnicking, photography, and cooling off on warm summer days.

Summary

Lodgepole Campground delivers an ideal mix of convenience, scenery, and access in the heart of Sequoia National Park. With plentiful amenities, beautiful riverside sites, and proximity to waterfalls, sequoia groves, and high-country trails, it is one of the best campgrounds for visitors wanting a well-supported national park experience. Whether you’re exploring the Giant Forest, chasing mountain vistas, or simply enjoying time by the river, Lodgepole offers an exceptional and memorable basecamp for any Sequoia adventure.