Dorst Creek Campground
36.6362, -118.8085 · Park boundary: National Park Service
Not taking reservations in 2026 due to past winter storm damage. When open, individual site reservations can be made up to one month in advance. Group sites are available up to four months in advance. All sites are reservation only. Ten miles (16 km) from the Giant Forest, this campground rests under open stands of evergreen trees at an elevation of 6,800 feet (2,073 m). This centrally located campground is ideal for those exploring both parks. The trail to the Muir Grove of giant sequoias begins here.
Closed all week
Dorst Creek Campground usually opens in mid-June and closes on Labor Day weekend.
- 2026 Closure For Repairs · Jan 1, 2026 – Dec 31, 2026 · Closed
Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04
This fee is valid for up to six people at a single tent or RV site per night.
This fee covers up to six people at a single campsite per night. for facilities and services such as camping, swimming, boat launch, and specialized interpretive services. This does not apply to group campsites.
These group sites accommodate from 12 to 25 people. The fee is charged per night.
This group site accommodates from 12-50 people. The fee is charged per night.
This group site accommodates from 12 - 40 people. The fee is charged per night.
Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04
Dorst Creek Campground does not have a determined reopening date due to ongoing storm damage repair. Reservations for individual campsites at Dorst Creek Campground can be made up to one month in advance of your stay. Group site reservations can be made up to four months in advance. All sites are reservation only.
- Amphitheater
- Yes - seasonal
- Drinking water
- Yes - seasonal
- Food storage lockers
- Yes - seasonal
- Host on site
- Yes - seasonal
- Toilets
- Flush Toilets - seasonal
- Trash & recycling
- Yes - seasonal
- Camp store
- No
- Cell reception
- No
- Dump station
- No
- Firewood for sale
- No
- Ice for sale
- No
- Internet
- No
- Laundry
- No
- Showers
- None
Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04
- RVs
- Allowed
- Trailers
- Allowed
- Access roads
- Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
- Classification
- Developed Campground
The campground is fully paved, and relatively flat and level. The path to the amphitheater is very steep and would be difficult to reach by wheelchair.
Campsites 6, 11, 172–175, 177, and 180 are designated accessible. These sites feature paved accessible parking, level tent pads, grills, picnic tables, and access paths to campground facilities.
In summer, fire restrictions may be in effect if conditions are dry, even at higher-elevation campgrounds. When fire danger is very high, wood and charcoal fires (including campfires in fire rings and wood-burning stoves) may be prohibited. Check current fire restrictions online or at park bulletin boards before you camp.
Free seasonal and holiday shuttle to Giant Forest with a stop at this campground.
Per the National Park Service, as of 2026-08-04
From either main park entrance, take the Generals Highway to Dorst Creek Campground. If you're approaching from the South, the entrance will be on your left. If you're approaching from the North, it will be out your right.
This campground is at 6,800 feet (2,073 m). Summers are usually warm and sunny, however the weather can change at any time. Be prepared for three-season camping, even in summer.
Black bears are active in this area. Food and scented items must be stored properly to protect bears and other wildlife. When you arrive at the campground, be prepared to store all food and scented items in metal food-storage boxes provided at each site. Learn more about bears and the importance of food storage: http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/bears.htm Pets are permitted within the campground but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet (1.8 m). Pets, including those riding in backpacks, are not allowed on any trails in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For more information about pet regulations: https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/pets.htm Gates open/close at 12 pm on open and close dates. Check-in at 12 pm or later. Check out before 12 pm. If you have not checked in by noon on the second day of your reserved, your reserved site may be considered unoccupied and opened to new campers. Buy firewood at local markets, do not cut standing or living trees. Please carpool at group sites.
Drive to Dorst Creek Campground
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