When we visited Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, we quickly realized that the parks weren’t very dog-friendly—dogs are only allowed in parking lots and campgrounds, which meant no trails inside the parks.
But we weren’t about to leave our pups, Tinkerbell and Maple, behind. So, we opted to stay in the beautiful Sequoia National Forest, which allowed us to enjoy everything the area has to offer with our dogs by our side.
We were absolutely blown away by the stunning landscapes of the forest, from towering Sequoia trees to crystal-clear alpine lakes. The vast expanses of wilderness between the national parks were every bit as beautiful, and to our delight, we could take Tinkerbell and Maple on nearly every hike we ventured out on. For anyone traveling with their dogs, this forest became our ideal base camp.
Table of Contents
- Boondocking in Sequoia National Forest: Free Camping with a View
- Dog-Friendly Hiking in Sequoia National Forest: Perfect for Tinkerbell and Maple
- Why Sequoia National Forest Is the Perfect Place to Stay
- FAQs
Dispersed Camping in Sequoia National Forest: Free Camping with a View
One of the things we loved most about staying in Sequoia National Forest was the freedom to boondock. If you’re unfamiliar, boondocking refers to dispersed camping – completely free and without services like water or restrooms. We set up camp near Big Meadow and enjoyed the solitude of the forest. There’s something special about finding your own private spot, surrounded by towering trees, with the sky full of stars above you.
Dispersed camping in Sequoia National Forest is an adventure in itself. While it requires a bit more preparation (since there are no amenities), it also offers a unique chance to immerse yourself in nature. Plus, having Maple and Tinkerbell with us made the experience even better. They loved having the freedom to explore the area around our campsite, and we enjoyed the quiet beauty of the wilderness.
- Best Boondocking Locations: We stayed near Big Meadow, but you can find several dispersed camping spots throughout the forest. Just make sure you’re in a designated area and follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Essential Gear: Since boondocking means no water, toilets, or electricity, come prepared with everything you need, including plenty of water, a portable toilet, and a way to handle waste.
Dog-Friendly Hiking in Sequoia National Forest: Perfect for Tinkerbell and Maple
Sequoia National Forest quickly became our go-to spot for dog-friendly hikes. With Tinkerbell and Maple leashed by our side, we were able to explore scenic trails and experience everything from towering Sequoias to peaceful lakesides.
Indian Basin Grove Loop
The Indian Basin Grove Loop is a beautiful, easy 1.4-mile nature walk that’s great for hiking with dogs. Located right outside the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park, this trail offers a peaceful escape into nature. The path meanders through Sequoia groves and past large Sequoia stumps, providing both history and beauty. The loop itself is mostly flat, with a few signs along the way to help you learn about the area’s natural history.
- Location: Enter through Princess Campground off Highway 180 and follow signs to the trailhead.
- Crowd Level: Light traffic, with plenty of moments for solitude.
- Leashed Dogs: Yes, leashed dogs are allowed throughout the hike.
- Pro Tip: We loved visiting early in the morning for the cooler air and the possibility of spotting wildlife.
Hume Lake Loop
Another dog-friendly gem is the Hume Lake Loop, a 3-mile trail circling the serene Hume Lake. This path is partly paved, making it accessible and easy to navigate with pets. The trail takes you past lakeside views, through shaded Sequoia groves, and even by a small dog-friendly beach. It’s the perfect place to let your dogs stretch their legs and cool off by the water. Hume Lake also has some great spots to stop for a picnic, or even grab a burger and milkshake from the Hume Snack Shop after your hike.
- Location: Hume Lake is off Highway 180, easily accessible from Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
- Crowd Level: Moderate. You’ll encounter others, but there are still plenty of opportunities for quiet moments.
- Leashed Dogs: Yes, dogs are welcome on the entire trail as long as they’re leashed.
- Bonus: After your hike, treat yourself to the local food at the snack shop—it’s a must-try after a long day.
The Joy of Wilderness Exploration (Without Geotagging)
One of the most unforgettable experiences we had was hiking to a remote alpine lake in the wilderness area of Sequoia National Forest. It was a challenging 11-mile round-trip, but the reward at the end was nothing short of magical. The crystal-clear water, the wildflowers sprinkled along the shore, and the towering mountains all around made it feel like we had stepped into a postcard. We spent hours relaxing by the lake, and Maple even went for a quick swim in the chilly water.
While we’d love to share every detail of this incredible hike, we’ve made it a point not to geotag specific locations in wilderness areas. These places are fragile, and part of the adventure is doing a little research to find them. We encourage all outdoor enthusiasts to familiarize themselves with Leave No Trace practices and take the time to learn about the area before heading out. There are plenty of resources online to help you find beautiful spots like these, and once you’ve taken the time to prepare, the experience is all the more rewarding.
Why Sequoia National Forest Is the Perfect Place to Stay
Staying in Sequoia National Forest while visiting Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks was the best decision we could have made. Not only did we have access to incredible dog-friendly hikes, but we also found a peacefulness and beauty that’s hard to come by in more crowded park areas. From the Sequoia groves at Indian Basin to the tranquil waters of Hume Lake, our time in the forest was nothing short of magical.
If you’re planning a visit to Sequoia or Kings Canyon with your dog, we can’t recommend Sequoia National Forest enough. It’s the perfect place to base your adventures, offering the freedom to explore with your pets and a chance to camp in the wilderness under the stars. Just be sure to respect the land, leave no trace, and enjoy every moment with your furry friends.
FAQs
Are dogs allowed in Sequoia National Forest?
Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails in Sequoia National Forest, as long as they are kept on a leash.
What is boondocking, and is it allowed in Sequoia National Forest?
Boondocking is free, dispersed camping with no services, and it’s allowed in certain areas of Sequoia National Forest. Just make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Can I swim with my dog in Sequoia National Forest?
Yes, many lakes and streams, like Hume Lake, allow dogs to swim. Be mindful of local regulations and keep dogs leashed when required.
Where can I camp in Sequoia National Forest?
In addition to developed campgrounds, there are plenty of dispersed camping (boondocking) opportunities throughout the forest. Be sure to check for any restrictions in the area you plan to stay.
What’s the best time to visit Sequoia National Forest?
The best time to visit is between June and September when the weather is warm, and most trails are accessible.