Lodging In The Parks: John Muir Lodge Kings Canyon National Park
The John Muir Lodge and its companion lodgings don’t offer first-class accommodations, but they serve the purpose and locate you in an incredible setting.
It’s a rare occasion when a lodge is built somewhere in the National Park System. As a result, even though the John Muir Lodge in Kings Canyon National Park was built in the late 1990s, it’s still considered one of the newer lodges in the park system. That said, don’t expect a four-star accommodation.
The lodge, operated by the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park Services Company, is a two-story building with interior hallways and is similar in style and layout to a modern lower-to-mid range motel. Upon arrival you register at the front desk, which is in a separate building adjacent to the Grant Grove Restaurant. After registering you proceed around the meadow and up the hill to the lodge, which is about a block away.
There are no public TVs in the lodge, and none in the guest rooms Most cell phones do not work in the Grant Grove Village area. And yet, the John Muir Lodge lobby and restaurant both have WiFi access.
Guestrooms in the John Muir Lodge are clean but basic. The furniture is simple and has a log cabin motif. Bed mattresses are standard commercial style . The lighting in the rooms is minimal if you want to read you might prefer the lobby. The rooms have coffee makers, ice buckets, and telephones. There is no air-conditioning in the rooms however, each room has a fan and thermostat-controlled heat.
Sequoia National Park Hotels/lodging
Wuksachi Lodge is Sequoia National Park’s signature hotel accommodation, located just around the bend from the General Sherman Tree, and not far from the exquisite sunset-viewing options at Moro Rock. Hotel amenities include limited wireless internet, a full-service restaurant , retail shop, special event facilities, and dog-friendly rooms.
Find The Best Price For Your Stay
John Muir Lodge is a small, cozy hotel with just 36 rooms in two configurations. In 2014, all accommodations were updated with new carpeting, artwork, bedding, headboards, chairs, fans and TVs, plus soundproof walls. The walls aren’t totally soundproof, admittedly — guests are able to hear the sound of others’ heaters . However, it’s not enough to deter us from returning. Cribs and rollaway beds are available, the latter for a fee of $10 per night.
Tip: Request a room on the first floor, as there aren’t any elevators available.
Standard RoomsStandard Rooms provide two queen beds, and are the only option for families they sleep up to four guests. Bathrooms offer shower and tub combinations, with sinks just outside the bathroom door. Each Standard Room also includes a mini-fridge, coffeemaker, dresser, table and chairs, and other expected amenities — a hairdryer, iron and ironing board.
Deluxe RoomsDeluxe Rooms are exactly the same, except they offer one king bed and a large lounge chair. Deluxe Rooms sleep up to two guests.
Note: John Muir Lodge recognizes quiet hours, 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. — a nice perk for families.
We stayed at the Rustic Cabin with Shared Bath and really enjoyed our stay. Didnt expect much as it is a cabin, but we were positively surprised how nice it was. Beds were really comfortable and the room was really warm . Staff at the front desk, restaurant, and elsewhere were really friendly. Will recommend this to friends and family.
Recommended Reading: Federal Grants For Ex Offenders
Three Rivers The Gateway To Sequoia National Park
Three Rivers is the closest town to the General Sherman Tree which is the most famous tree in Sequoia National Park and the worlds largest tree, measured by volume!
The town of Three Rivers is the gateway to Sequoia National Park, and its located just 7 miles north of the Foothills Visitor Center, near the Ash Mountain Entrance. I recommend finding accommodations here for those who want to spend as much time inside the park as possible.
Kings Canyon National Park, located near Sequoia, is also easily accessible from Three Rivers. Thats why youll find the town super packed at all times. More reason to book your accommodations in advance!
I love the atmosphere of these small towns and I highly recommend exploring Three Rivers before running off to Sequoia-Kings Canyon. There are plenty of natural spots around the town such as the Cobble Knoll Recreation Area and the Salt Creek, which are perfect for those days when youre too tired to head all the way to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Visalia Where To Stay In Sequoia National Park For Families
Visalia is the birth town of the famous actor Kevin Coster who played in movies like The Bodyguard and Robin Hood
Located 35 miles from the Sequoia National Park and the Foothills Visitor Center, this rural town offers a wide range of accommodations and tons of activities for all ages, making Visalia an excellent place for families.
Whats great about this small city is that youll find something to do at any time, so you wont have to worry about the kids getting bored before you make your way to Sequoia National Forest.
The ImagineU Childrens Museum is one of the biggest attractions in town, but the one that all kids will love is the Adventure Park, which features mini-golf courses and go-carts!
Also Check: Back To Business Grant Application
Loved Staying At The John Muir Lodge Part Of The Grant Grove Cabin Complex
A perfect location for visiting the General Grant Tree and for hiking along the boundary trails. Too much snow to walk to Panoramic Point. Room was very clean, beds exceptionally comfortable. Food at the restaurant was delicious and plentiful
- Trip type: Travelled with family
13.8 km
0.1 km
- Free parking
23.9 km
- Free parking
26.7 km
41.6 km
- Free parking
9.6 km
- Free parking
242247437
A rustic lodge nestled among gigantic Sequoia trees. The roomy lobby has sofas, tables, chairs, jigsaw puzzles, and a roaring fire in the hearth. The staff is friendly and accommodating. The rooms are small but cozy with TV, frig, and Keurig coffeemaker with excellent coffee and tea. This was my first visit to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park and although it was winter it was truly a wonderful experience to see Mother Nature in all her glory.
- Trip type: Travelled with family
had a great time at the lodge. Perfect place to spend the winter and great for kids as well. the proximity of the visitor center and the market is the best you can get in a national park. Giant Grove was also very close.
- Trip type: Travelled with family
- Trip type: Travelled solo
- Trip type: Travelled as a couple
- Trip type: Travelled with family
Fresno Where To Stay Near Sequoia For A Modern City Vibe
Compared to the other 3 towns, Fresno is bigger, newer, and has a broader range of attractions suited for all types of travelers, so if youre looking to get all the comfort during your trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you can get it, then I recommend finding accommodations here.
Fresno is located just 1 hour away from the Big Stump Entrance of Sequoia National Park, so if youre headed that way, then this city might be a good choice for you!
I think youll need more than a few days here before you head to explore the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, as there are so many cool things to do and try. If youre with your family, then the Fresno Chaffee Zoo may be the first stop on your schedule! Or perhaps dive into the history of the city at the Meux Home Museum with its impressive architecture.
| The Sequoia Hut |
Don’t Miss: Grants For Schools In Michigan
Mineral King Area Lodging
Sequoia National Parks Best Kept Secret
A subalpine glacial valley set in the southern region of Sequoia National Park, Mineral King is quite possibly Sequoias best kept secret. One of the oldest settlements in the entire Sierra Nevada and a former mining community, Mineral King is void of the crowds youll find elsewhere in Sequoia National Park. There are numerous hikes in the area leading to pristine views and some of the most stunning subalpine lakes in the country. To reach Mineral King, take Hwy 198 to Three Rivers and then turn off at the Mineral King Road junction two miles before the parks Ash Mountain Entrance. The area can only be accessed seasonally between late May and late October, weather permitting.
Private Lodging Near The Parks
Montecito Sequoia LodgeThis private lodge isnt inside Sequoia or Kings Canyon National Parks, but it lies right in betweenjust off Generals Highway in Sequoia National Forestso its in the heart of the land encompassed by the two parks. Its open year-round. By summer, its something of a family summer camp, and by winter its a favorite with cross-country skiers, or anyone who enjoys playing in the snow. An on-site restaurant serves hearty buffet meals. Rooms range from simple lodge rooms to modern free-standing cabins.
This private family camp, situated right on Hume Lake and surrounded by Kings Canyon National Park, offers rooms to outside guests from spring through fall. Its a great location, and theres a restaurant on-site.
Read Also: Ppe Grant For Small Business
Sequoia High Sierra Camp
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on TripAdvisor
One of the best glamping sites in all of California, Sequoia High Sierra Camp is a luxury outpost situated in High Sierra wilderness. The camp consists of 32 deluxe canvas tent cabins, an open air dining pavilion and a central bathhouse with flush toilets and hot showers. Set just a mile from Marvin Pass Trailhead, the camp is hike-in only, but easy to reach. From camp, there are numerous trails to explore in the area including Seville Lake, Mitchell Peak, Rowell Meadow and Redwood Canyon.
Rates are $300 per person per night, inclusive of all meals.Check availability and book.
Fine Print: 2-night minimum stay.Cancellation requests made by phone at least 30 days prior to scheduled arrival date will receive a refund less a 6% cancellation fee.
Legendary Trees Visitor Center Services
Situated just inside the Kings Canyon’s Big Stump entrance on Highway 180, Grant Grove Village offers a range of amenities and services to enhance your national park experience.
Start at the Kings Canyon Visitor Center in Grant Grove Village to plan your visit and learn more about the High Sierras and the giant sequoias the area is famous for. You’ll also find books, maps, and gifts available for purchase in the visitor center shop.
If you’re looking for lodging in Grant Grove Village, stay in a quiet, cozy room at the John Muir Lodge, or book one of the secluded Grant Grove Cabins for a more rustic experience. Whatever you choose, both types of accommodation offer easy access to the nearly 900,000 acres that make up Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. After a day of exploring the southern Sierra Nevada, the Grant Grove Restaurant is a great place to relax and refuel, with seasonal American cuisine in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
Additionally, Grant Grove Village serves as the ideal park base camp, where you’ll find services like ATMs and a post office. If you need supplies, stop by the Grant Grove Market for groceries, beer and wine, and camping basics – you’ll even find cross-country skis and snowshoes for rent during the snowy winter months. And for Sequoia & Kings Canyon souvenirs, the Grant Grove Gift Shop has a selection of clothes, Native American arts and crafts, and other local treasures to commemorate your visit.
- Grant Grove: Highway 180
Read Also: Technology Grants For Nonprofits 2021
Sequoia National Forest Lodging
Lodging Between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
For those wanting the best of both worlds, there are two lodges that sit on the boundary of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in Sequoia National Forest. Set midway between King Canyons Grant Grove and Sequoias Giant Forest, basing yourself here makes it easy to travel between the two. This area is best accessed via King Canyons Big Stump Entrance, regardless of whether youre arriving from north or south. Reach the park via Hwy 180 and once inside, take your first right and follow the Generals Hwy until reaching your destination.
Join Yosemite National Park Trips
Create a personalized feed and bookmark your favorites.
Hiker in Grant Grove in Sequoia National Park Photo: Getty Images
Get away from the crowds in Yosemite but still experience the gorgeous wilderness of the High Sierra in nearby Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks.
Kings Canyon National Park reminded naturalist John Muir so much of his beloved Yosemite, he once called it a rival. Here youll find one of the deepest canyons in America, the largest remaining grove of sequoias in the world and amazing granite rock outcroppings.
Also Check: Hud First Time Home Buyer Grant
Sequoia Airbnb Inside The Parkgates
Rated 4.6 out of 5 on Vrbo
Sleeping up to 10, this 3-bedroom, 4-bathroom home is a wonderful option for groups and families. The property features an indoor fireplace, wood stove, large deck, A/C, heating and WiFi. With beautiful views of the Sierra Nevada, the airbnb is located just inside the Sequoia National Park gates and is 2 miles from Tunnel Rock and 6 miles from the Giant Forest.
Rates average $375 per night for the home.
Compare rates and book: Vrbo | Expedia
Fine Print: 2-night minimum stay. Taxes and fees excluded from the above rate. Free cancellation up to 60 days before check-in. Pets not allowed.
Where Should I Stay In Sequoia And Kings Canyon
September 30, 2019Bob Howells
This post is part of Just Aheads Sequoia and Kings Canyon Trip Plannerour guide to what you need to know to plan your trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. . And be sure to download our Just Ahead smartphone audio tour of Sequoia and Kings Canyon before you head to the parks.
Wuksachi Lodge, Sequoia National Park
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park lodging ranges from signiture inns in both parks to simple cabins. Youll also find some private accommodations near the heart of both parks, as well as options just outside the parks.
You May Like: Grants For Daycare In Florida
Sequoia Foothills Area Campgrounds
There are three campgrounds in the Sequoia Foothills area. Buckeye Flat and Potwisha are situated just inside Sequoias Ash Mountain Entrance and feature flush toilets and potable drinking water, but lack shower facilities. Alternatively, South Fork is a primitive campground set an hours drive from other park attractions it has vault toilets, but no potable drinking water or on-site staff, making it important to arrive prepared. Buckeye Flat is reservation only, whereas Potwisha and South Fork are both first-come, first-served.
- Buckeye Flat Campground: Tent Only 27 sites $22 per night
- Potwisha Campground: Tent & RV 42 sites $22 per night
- South Fork Campground: Tent Only 10 sites $6 per night
Kings Canyon National Park Hotels/lodging
The John Muir Lodge and Grant Grove Cabins are located inside Kings Canyon National Park, and within walking distance of renowned Grant Grove, home to the General Grant Tree. Enjoy being close to these giant sequoias and also at the top of the road following the Kings River down into Kings Canyon itself. Dog-friendly rooms are also available.
Choose hotel-style accommodations at the John Muir Lodge – complete with a lofty open timber beam ceiling and stone fireplace in the common area, or a more rustic cabin-like experience at Grant Grove Cabins. These cabins come in either hard-sided or tent-cabin styles.
Cedar Grove Lodge is located in the heart of Kings Canyon on the bank of Kings River and close to Roads End, a popular trail head for adventures out into the park during the summer months. With only 21 guest rooms and a unique location, this lodge fills quickly, so make your reservations early.
Recommended Reading: Small Business Grant For Veterans
Sequoia Lodging Guide: Every Single Lodging Option Inside The National Park
Sequoia lodging can feel overwhelming. Sequoia National Park is massive in its own right, but then theres also adjoining Kings Canyon to contend with, which is jointly managed by the National Park Service. Entry into one park includes entry into the other, and aside from signage indicating otherwise, one would be remiss to know the difference between the two. Whats more each park has multiple lodging areas to choose from and Sequoia National Forest cuts through both parks with lodging of its own.
This lodging guide is meant to serve as the only resource youll need when planning your trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon. It includes every single lodging option inside both parks and is categorized by area. Weve even taken it upon ourselves to create an interactive map that makes it easy to visualize where different areas are in relation to others.
Here are the best lodging options in two of Californias most beautiful national parks.
John Muir Lodge Cedar Grove Lodge And Grant Grove Cabins
All Kings Canyon reservations require a credit card guarantee by Visa®, MasterCard®, Discover Card®, Diners Club®, or American Express®. Your credit card will be billed for the first night’s room and tax for each room booked. If the credit card charge is not approved, your reservation will be canceled.
You may book up to 9 guestrooms online under the same name and/or address. After 9 rooms have been reserved, any additional rooms booked under that same name and/or address will be automatically canceled. To reserve 10 guestrooms or more, please call the group sales department at .
Reservations booked through the call center must be changed/canceled through the call center. Cancellation policy is strictly enforced with no exceptions.
Special requests are noted and maintained in the reservation system however, specific room numbers or locations cannot be guaranteed. Rates are subject to change with National Park Service approval. All rates are subject to applicable state and county taxes that may change without notice.
Your accommodations are normally available after 4:00 p.m. Check out time is 11:00 a.m. Reservations may be booked up to 366 days in advance. Rates are based on single or double occupancy. Children age 17 and under do not affect the rate, but the rate will increase by $12 per additional adult age 18 and older in the room.
A generous donation to the Sequoia Parks Conservancy of $2.00 per room, per day will be added to each individual room reservation.
You May Like: Grants Pass Lodge At Riverside