Some of my earliest memories are from my family’s annual camping trip to Kings Canyon. When I think about these moments, I remember the subtleties of our morning rituals.
I usually awoke by the sound of my dad clambering away in our makeshift kitchen as he started a pot of fresh coffee. Sometimes I could already hear the fire burning, which signaled to me that I could quickly find warmth if I ever decided to leave the comfort of my tent.
I would lay there and rest in complete stillness, worried if I moved too much, all the warmth of my sleeping bag would escape from my tightly-wrapped cocoon.
Once I could build enough courage to endure the brisk morning air, I’d throw on my hiking boots and stumble out of my tent.
Every morning I experienced in Kings Canyon began all the same. I had a view of giant cedar groves surrounding me in every direction, I heard the sound of the roaring Kings River off in the valley below, and I was greeted by a cup of hot chocolate that would be waiting for me as soon as I awoke.
These memories have been imprinted on my mind as early on as I can remember. Even to this day, these moments I shared with my family are some of my most cherished recollections I have lived in my young life.
Every year for Memorial Day weekend, My family would camp in Kings Canyon National Park. While growing up, this tradition had never been broken. No matter the predicted weather conditions, (for better or for worse) the Thomason family and a couple other family friends would all meet up for a weekend in the great outdoors.
As the years went on, the trip seemed to be a hit or miss. By the time I made it to high school, Kings Canyon became a talked about idea that never seemed to follow through due to busy schedules and lack of planning.
Now fast forward to current day. I have just graduated college at the age of 22 and I am about to move to Spain for an indefinite period of time.
As I’m about to spend my last summer in California, I began to go over everything I wanted to do within the next couple of months. As you could probably assume by this post, I knew I needed one last nostalgic Memorial Day weekend in Kings Canyon.
Now that I’ve given you a little insight into why this place is so special to me, here are some key points about Kings Canyon so you can go visit this memorable place yourself.
Why Should You Visit Kings Canyon?
Aside from being some of my fondest childhood memories, Kings Canyon is also just an incredible place to visit. For me, a weekend in the great outdoors is the best way to unwind and recharge those batteries.
Nestled between the Sequoia National Forest and the Inyo National Forest, Kings Canyon boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery you can find in all of California. In fact, this area of California grows massive sequoia trees, which are the tallest trees in the entire world.
Due to its prime location, campers can easily visit Sequoia National Park on their way out of Kings Canyon. While I love spending a day in Sequoia for the giant forest, I would still rather camp in the less-crowded Kings Canyon region.
Between its countless hiking trails, captivating waterfalls, and unique wildlife, Kings Canyon fully encapsulates natural beauty in its rawest form.
Campgrounds In Kings Canyon
Before you go, it’s important to know which campgrounds are first come first serve, and which ones require a reservation. Even though Kings Canyon is lesser known than Sequoia National Forest, it still fills up as soon as they open Memorial Day Weekend. Visit the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park Service Website for more information.
Sheep Creek
Sheep Creek is the campground we stayed at this year because it is one of the only first come first serve sites available (and we all know that the Thomason fam is not the greatest planners).
Sentinel
Sentinel is by far the most popular campground. These sites are located right next to the store, visitor center, and ranger station. Because of its prime location, these sites require a permit and will fill up months in advance. Book your reservation here.
Canyon View
These sites also have to be reserved well in advance. However, keep in mind Canyon View is only for parties that are seven or more.
Moraine
The Moraine campground is our standard favorite. Due to this year’s harsh winter, the campground had some damage and is now closed indefinitely for clean up. In normal years, Moraine is first come first serve and offers some of the best campground sites in the entire park.
Things To Do In Kings Canyon
There are so many things to do and see in this diverse landscape. For my family, we are all about the hiking trails. However, we always spend at least a day visiting the park’s iconic waterfalls and viewpoints that are easily accessible along Highway 180.
Grizzly Falls
This massive waterfall is technically in the Sequoia National Forest off of highway 180. Since we came after an intense rainy season, the falls were coming down in full force which made it hard to see due to the mist.
Roaring River Falls
Another classic favorite, the roaring river falls in Kings Canyon is a beautiful masterpiece that can be reached by a short .3 mile walk. Find this hidden gem by taking Generals Highway in the Cedar Grove area.
Zumwalt Meadow
Zumwalt Meadow is my favorite spot in all of Kings Canyon. It’s an easy 1.5 mile loop that showcases breathtaking scenery along every step of the way. This stroll includes crossings along the Kings River, fern forests intermittently scattered between beautiful cedars, and of course, the most peaceful meadow you ever did see.
Cedar Grove Overlook
If you are looking to break a sweat and be rewarded by unforgettable mountain views, then try out the Cedar Grove Overlook hike. This hike starts at the Hotel Creek trailhead and is roughly 5 miles roundtrip. Prepare yourself for a steep incline that takes you to the perfect view of the valley below.
Mist Falls
One of the most popular hikes in all of Kings Canyon is Mist Falls. Trek along the Kings River through towering Pine Trees and stunning wildlife. If you are really feeling adventurous, continue your climb to Lower Paradise Valley.
Lower Paradise Valley
If Mist Falls is not enough of a challenge, continue your journey to Lower Paradise Valley. This destination is a backpackers campground that is straight up gorgeous. Lower Paradise Valley is a great day hike but you have to start early- round trip it is around 11.5 miles and can take around 7 hours.
Bubbs Creek Trail
While you can go all the way to Bubb’s Creek, we started at Rivers End and stopped at the Spinx Creek junction backpacker campground as our halfway point. This 8.7 mile hike can be a challenge, but it shows off some of the greatest views in all of Kings Canyon. In order to make the hike just shy of 9 miles, start at the Rivers End trailhead.
If you are looking for your next outdoor escape, go and embrace the natural beauty of Kings Canyon and the Sequoia National Park.
Do you have an annual trip you take with your family? Have you ever been camping in Kings Canyon before? Let me know in the comments below!
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