Ten Mile Campground – Sequoia National Forest, California

Ten Mile Campground is a quiet, shaded mountain retreat located in the Hume Lake Ranger District of Sequoia National Forest. Tucked among tall pines and granite boulders near Tenmile Creek, this small, rustic campground offers a peaceful alternative to the busier lakeside and national park campgrounds nearby. With its cool elevation, forested setting, and easy access to scenic byways and hiking routes, Ten Mile is an excellent choice for tent campers and travelers seeking a low-key Sierra Nevada getaway.

Location & Setting

The campground lies just off Forest Road 13S09, southwest of Hume Lake and not far from the boundary of Sequoia National Park. At roughly 5,000–5,500 feet in elevation, the area is characterized by dense pine and fir forest, granite outcroppings, and the sound of flowing water from nearby Tenmile Creek. Because the campground sits away from major highways and village hubs, it maintains a quiet, secluded atmosphere while still keeping visitors within reasonable driving distance of Grant Grove, Hume Lake, and the Generals Highway corridor.

Campground Overview

Ten Mile Campground is small and rustic, typically offering a handful of sites best suited for tent campers, vans, or small trailers. Sites are spaced among trees and boulders, with a mix of sun and shade depending on location. The compact size of the campground helps preserve its peaceful feel, attracting visitors looking for a back-to-basics forest experience rather than a high-capacity recreation hub. Access roads can be narrow, making the area less ideal for larger RVs but perfect for those wanting a quieter forest retreat.

Amenities

Amenities are simple and include picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. There is no drinking water, no electrical hookups, and no dump station, so visitors must arrive fully self-sufficient. Bear-resistant food storage is strongly recommended throughout the region, and seasonal fire restrictions are common due to dry Sierra Nevada summers. The rustic amenity level contributes to the campground’s natural charm and makes it a good fit for campers comfortable with a more traditional, undeveloped setting.

Activities & Nearby Recreation

The surrounding forest offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and exploring forest routes. Tenmile Creek provides a scenic backdrop for relaxing at camp or walking along the water’s edge. A short drive leads to Hume Lake, where visitors can enjoy fishing, non-motorized boating, swimming, and the popular Lakeshore Trail. Grant Grove and the General Grant Tree are also within reach, adding giant sequoia viewing and national park hiking to the experience. The area’s relatively low light pollution makes for good stargazing on clear nights.

Summary

Ten Mile Campground offers a peaceful, lightly developed camping experience in the forested foothills of the southern Sierra Nevada. With its shaded sites, creekside setting, and access to both Sequoia National Forest and nearby national park destinations, it’s an excellent choice for campers seeking solitude, simplicity, and natural beauty. For visitors looking to escape crowds while still remaining close to major Sierra attractions, Ten Mile provides a quiet and memorable retreat.