Princess
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Princess
$34.00 - $68.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $34 to $68 per night depending on site type. Additional holiday charges apply ($2 for tent sites and $4 for standard sites). There is...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$34.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider559-335-2232truiz@goexplorus.com
About this campground
Nestled within the enchanting Indian Basin Grove at 5,900 feet, Princess Campground invites adventurers to explore its 88 thoughtfully arranged sites across multiple loops. This mountain retreat serves as your gateway to the sparkling waters of Hume Lake while offering front-row seats to nature's theater in the form of a stunning wildflower meadow that bursts with color each season.
Princess Campground offers diverse camping accommodations, including standard nonelectric sites, tent-only sites, and a limited number of group sites.
Historical SignificanceWalk among the ghosts of giants at Princess Campground, where massive sequoia stumps tell the story of an ancient grove that once stood tall before early 1900s logging operations. These weathered remnants serve as powerful reminders of both nature's grandeur and humanity's impact, creating a unique historical tapestry that adds depth to your camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the perfect Sierra Nevada climate where sun-drenched summer days give way to refreshingly crisp evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a potential wonderland of snow, creating an entirely different camping experience for those brave enough to embrace the cold mountain air.
ElevationPerched at 5,900 feet above sea level, Princess Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from valley heat. This elevated position transforms each night into a celestial showcase, where the thin mountain air reveals countless stars typically hidden by lower-elevation haze, making it a stargazer's paradise.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the majesty of Sequoia National Forest, where towering pines create a natural cathedral above your campsite. Ancient sequoia stumps stand as monuments throughout the grounds, while a vibrant meadow erupts in seasonal wildflower displays, painting the landscape with nature's palette. This diverse ecosystem offers endless opportunities for photography, wildlife viewing, and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionPrincess Campground claims its place within the legendary Indian Basin Grove, part of the greater Kings River Watershed in California's iconic Sierra Nevada range. This geological wonderland showcases the dramatic mountain building and glacial carving that has shaped one of America's most spectacular mountain ranges over millions of years.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Indian Basin Grove Interpretive Trail, accessible from the campground entrance, provides a paved half-mile loop suitable for individuals with limited mobility. Some rough patches make it less than 100% wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but are generally spacious. Specific reviews mention large sites that can accommodate multiple tents and RVs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. While many sites are well-spaced and surrounded by trees, others are closer together. Sites on the outer loops offer more privacy compared to those near the park road.
Total Campsites88 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOuter loop sites, such as 29-49, offer more privacy and better views.
Best CampsitesSite 49 and Site 87 are noted for their spaciousness and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is before 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights during a visit, and up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
The group sites allow for multiple campers and vehicles, though specific capacity numbers are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes multiple loops, with outer loop sites offering greater privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23 - September 27; closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited sites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations have a $10 change fee. Late cancellations incur the $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night fee. Cancellations on the arrival day are not supported.
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
Dump station
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Princess Campground provides a variety of recreational activities for visitors. The Indian Basin Grove Interpretive Trail offers a scenic loop through the meadow area, and the nearby Hume Lake offers opportunities for fishing, non-motorized boating, and swimming. Additional activities include hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The campground serves as a base for exploring nearby attractions like Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks.
Hiking
Hiking options include the Indian Basin Grove Interpretive Trail, a paved half-mile loop with an additional extension loop. A 2.6-mile Hume Lake Loop features interpretive signs and benches. The Boole Tree Trail is also nearby, accessible via a non-maintained road.Fishing
Fishing is available at Hume Lake, which is known for its serene environment. Specific types of fish are not mentioned.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at Hume Lake, located 3 miles from the campground. Visitors are advised to exercise caution and wear water shoes due to potential hazards such as broken glass or hooks.Biking
Mountain biking is available around the Hume Lake area and nearby trails, though no detailed descriptions of specific biking paths are provided.Boating
Boating activities are limited to non-motorized boats at Hume Lake. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available at the nearby Christian camp.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, with deer frequently spotted in the meadow adjacent to the campground. The area is also known for birding opportunities.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are noted, as the campground is closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are accessible at Hume Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM - 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are common; proper food storage is mandatory. Vault toilets may emit odors.
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Weather forecast
53
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 - September 27 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are available in the campground. Some users wished for more trash locations.
Proximity to water featuresLocated 3 miles northwest of Hume Lake, which is suitable for non-motorized boating, fishing, and swimming.
Common complaintsComplaints include vault toilets being smelly, crowded sites close to the road, and noise violations during quiet hours.
HostCamp hosts are noted for being helpful and friendly. Hosts often sell firewood ($10 per bundle).
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Fresno, California, go east on Highway 180 to Grants Grove, continuing approximately 12 miles to Princess Campground on the right.
Accessible directly from Highway 180, the road is paved and suitable for most vehicles, including RVs.Nearby places
Fresno, CA (approx. 80 miles, about 1.5 hours)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.5
241 reviews
Princess is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Princess Campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, friendly camp hosts, and picturesque setting near a meadow and Hume Lake. While many users praise the spacious sites and well-maintained vault toilets, some noted issues such as road noise, generator usage, and late-night disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 241 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and well-maintained facilities, scenic surroundings, spacious campsites, and friendly, helpful camp hosts. Many users also appreciated the proximity to Hume Lake and...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from the nearby highway, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, and occasional issues with water spigots. Some users also mentioned that certain sites are uneven or too...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend choosing sites away from the highway for a quieter experience and bringing extra leveling blocks for trailers. Firewood can be purchased on-site for $10. Many suggest exploring Hume...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews highlight crowding and occasional noise issues, while off-season reviews praise the quiet and peaceful environment. Late spring and early summer are noted as the best times for...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The pit toilets were always extremely clean and even smelled clean!!! If you have ever used pit toilets that's not common.' 'Camp hosts were super friendly and helpful—they made the whole experience...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 23: 'Very spacious, located close to both the restrooms and the water.' Site 86: 'Smaller but sufficient for an extra-large tent. Watch out for Gilbert the squirrel!' Site 49: 'Spacious with...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The Indian Basin Trail provides some accessibility features, but it is not fully wheelchair-friendly due to rough spots. Sites are generally described as spacious and accommodating for individuals...
Based on 241 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users appreciated the ability to explore nearby trails with their dogs. However, leashes are required, and pets are not allowed in Hume Lake itself.
Based on 241 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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