Sunset Campground (Ca)
4.25400 reviewsSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA
Sunset Campground (Ca)
$16.00 - $32.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$32.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees are $32 per night for standard camping and $16 per night for valid lifetime Access Pass, lifetime Senior Pass, or annual Senior Pass. Group sites cost a flat rate of $60 per night but do not qualify for discounts.
About this campground
Perched at 6,500 feet in the heart of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Sunset Campground serves as your gateway to some of nature's most awe-inspiring wonders. From here, you're just moments away from standing beneath the mighty General Grant Tree and discovering the cascading beauty of Ella Falls. This well-appointed mountain retreat features spacious group sites perfect for family gatherings, modern flush toilets, fresh potable water, and secure food storage lockers to ensure safe coexistence with the local wildlife.
Sunset Campground offers various camping options, including individual tent sites, RV sites, and group tent-only sites. Many campsites are sloped, and users often recommend selecting carefully based on specific needs.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history as you camp in the shadow of the legendary General Grant Tree, officially designated as the Nation's Christmas Tree and standing as a towering memorial to America's military veterans. This sacred grove has witnessed generations of visitors who come to pay their respects and marvel at this ancient giant that has stood sentinel for over 1,700 years.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect mountain climate where warm, sun-drenched days give way to refreshingly cool evenings under star-filled skies. During peak season, you'll enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from crisp 50°F mornings that invite you to wrap your hands around a steaming cup of coffee, to pleasant 74°F afternoons ideal for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
ElevationAt 6,500 feet above sea level, Sunset Campground offers the perfect alpine escape where thin mountain air sharpens your senses and sweeping panoramic views stretch to the horizon. This elevation gifts campers with naturally cool nights perfect for sleeping and spectacular vantage points for watching the sun paint the peaks in golden hues at dawn and dusk.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an enchanted mixed evergreen forest where towering sugar pines, aromatic incense cedars, stately firs, and ancient sequoias create a living cathedral overhead. This diverse ecosystem supports an abundance of wildlife—from the impressive black bears and graceful mule deer to countless bird species that fill the forest with their songs. The dramatic landscape reveals nature's artistry through sculpted granite cliffs, marble formations polished by time, deep river-carved canyons, and mysterious underground caverns waiting to be explored.
Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Sierra Nevada range, Sunset Campground occupies a geological wonderland millions of years in the making. Here, ancient forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape where granite monoliths rise from forests of sugar pine, incense cedar, fir, and giant sequoia. Explore a terrain shaped by powerful glaciers, carved by persistent rivers into deep canyons, and riddled with marble caves that tell the story of Earth's dynamic past. This living museum of geological processes offers endless opportunities for discovery and wonder.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible sites and flush toilets are highlighted in reviews. The accessible sites provide proximity to restrooms and flat terrain, although some sites require careful selection due to slopes.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some accommodating multiple tents and vehicles, while others are tighter and sloped.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are mixed; some sites are closely packed, offering limited seclusion, while others on the outer loops provide better privacy and scenic views.
Total Campsites162 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites along the western rim for sunset views. Avoid excessively sloped sites like 156 and 18.
Best CampsitesSites 35, 55, and 40 are highly recommended for their sunset views and spaciousness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground and up to 14 nights total within each year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests per individual campsite.
Groups
Group sites A & B accommodate 15-30 people with a limit of 5 vehicles. These tent-only sites include six picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes but do not allow RVs or trailers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are grouped into loops with varying levels of privacy and slope. Western edge sites offer the best views.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season begins May 21 and closes September 2.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability may apply to unreserved sites. However, high demand during peak season often leads to limited walk-up options.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 service fee applies for cancellations or changes. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s use fee. For group sites, cancellations within 14 days also incur the $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is located in a region rich with recreational opportunities both within walking distance and in the broader Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks area. Activities include hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation, with trails leading to iconic locations such as the General Grant Tree and Ella Falls.
Hiking
Several hiking trails originate near the campground, including the trail to the General Grant Tree, Ella Falls, and Panoramic Point. Reviews frequently highlight the beauty of the trails and their accessibility.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at nearby Hume Lake, approximately a 30-minute drive from the campground. A California fishing license is required.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as black bears, mule deer, and various bird species are commonly observed. Some reviews mention deer wandering through sites and other wildlife interactions.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Some non-motorized water sports, such as fishing or swimming, may be available at nearby Hume Lake, but details are limited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed within designated rings; restrictions may apply during fire bans. Firewood is sold locally, and gathering dead wood for campfires is permitted.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear area; proper food storage is critical. Slippery terrain and steep slopes at certain campsites may pose risks. Rivers in the area can have strong currents and slippery rocks.
Active alertsNo current advisories or closures reported.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The closest emergency services include the Grant Grove Village ranger station located across the street from the Sunset Campground. For more significant emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Fresno, about 55 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21 to September 2
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash dumpsters are distributed throughout the campground. Users reported that proper usage of these dumpsters is important to prevent wildlife incursions. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresElla Falls is close by, along with other rivers and streams in Kings Canyon National Park.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include noise from large groups, lack of privacy, and uneven or sloped campsites. Other concerns involve insufficient enforcement of campground regulations.
HostNo consistent host presence reported. Rangers occasionally patrol the campground.
Campground Map
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks 47050 Generals Highway, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA
Driving directionsKings Canyon National Park is easily accessible from Fresno, California. Take HWY 180 East from Fresno, and proceed 55 miles to Kings Canyon National Park. Three miles east of the Big Stump Entrance Station you will find Sunset Campground on your left.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. HWY 180 East from Fresno is a well-maintained road leading directly to Kings Canyon National Park and the campground. There are no indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Fresno (55 miles, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes), Three Rivers (approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes), Visalia (approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Grant Grove Village, located across the street, offers a restaurant, general store, and other facilities including camping supplies and basic groceries. Additional supplies can be found in Fresno, approximately 55 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
400 reviews
Sunset Campground (Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sunset Campground vary widely, with some praising its scenic views, convenient location, and clean facilities, while others criticize overcrowding, insufficient privacy, and noise issues. The average sentiment is mixed at 4.1.
Review Summaries
Based on 400 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include proximity to Grant Grove Village, scenic sunset views, clean restrooms, accessible trails, and well-maintained facilities. Many users also appreciate the campground's...
Based on 400 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints frequently include overcrowding, noise from neighboring sites, poorly enforced regulations (e.g., quiet hours), sloped tent pads, and limited privacy. Users also mention maintenance issues...
Based on 400 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose sites on the outer loops for better privacy and sunset views. Bring soap, shade tents, and earplugs. Avoid slope-heavy sites such as #18, #156, #057, and #34 unless prepared. Group sites are...
Based on 400 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews highlight crowding, noise, and high bee activity, while off-peak seasons offer quieter experiences. Winter camping is not emphasized, as the campground operates primarily during...
Based on 400 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Sunset campground is aptly named; the sunsets are breathtaking.' 2. 'Grant Grove Village is within walking distance, making it convenient for essentials.' 3. 'Choose sites wisely; many are sloped...
Based on 400 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best sites include #40 and #55 for views and privacy. Sites such as #156, #47, and #057 are criticized for steep slopes and limited usability.
Based on 400 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible sites like #026 and #116 are praised for proximity to restrooms and flat terrain. However, some users noted a lack of clear signage near accessible spots.
Based on 400 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be crated or leashed. Some users expressed concern over unleashed dogs disturbing the area. Overall, Sunset Campground is pet-friendly for responsible owners.
Based on 400 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025