Sequoia National Forest

Explore the Land of Giants

The Sequoia National Forest covers over 1.1 million acres in three counties of Southern California and offers an abundance of recreation opportunities for people to enjoy.

Visit Sequoia National Forest

The Forest offers 52 developed campgrounds, hiking on more than 1,147 miles of trails including 47 miles of the PCT, over 314,448 acres of wilderness, 222 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers, 2,617 rivers and streams, world-class whitewater rapids, 158 ponds and lakes, boating, fishing, biking, horseback riding and more.

Sequoia National Forest
Giant Sequoia National Monument

"Of all the mountain ranges I have climbed; I like the Sierra Nevada the best."
 - John Muir

Forest Conditions: Know Before You Go!

A well-planned outing can make the difference between a life-long memory and a disaster you hope to forget as soon as possible. Beautiful, sunny conditions where you live won't necessarily guarantee you the same when you're planning to hike a trail that's located at an elevation above 2500 feet.

  • Isabella Lake travel detour due to Highway 178 closure

    A placeholder image

    EMERGENCY CLOSURE - According to CHP, the recommended detour from Bakersfield to Lake Isabella is Highway 58 to Highway 14 to Highway 178.

  • Sequoia and Sierra National Forests Land Management Plans Revision

    A placeholder image

    The Forest Service has completed plan revision for the Sequoia and Sierra National Forests and released final records of decision, forest plans, and the final environmental impact statement. These documents reflect over a decade of environmental analysis and coordination with Tribes, partners, and the public.

  • Forest officials recommend backup plans before visiting!

    23 Leave No Trace Card

    Many facilities and roads are not open due to storm damage. Checkout the Sequoia National Forest inciweb site that includes District Recreation Reports - open/closed campgrounds and roads information.

  • Woodcutting Permits Available

    Wood Permits Available

    The Sequoia National Forest is offering personal use woodcutting permits to the public. A firewood cutting permit and load tickets are required to cut, gather, and transport firewood in the Forest.

Forest officials caution visitors due to Winter Storms Damage

There is a heightened risk of flooding, landslides, debris flows from recent fires, snow-covered and slippery roads, trail washouts, and other hazards.

  • SLOW DOWN!
  • Winter roads can be dangerous
  • Use extreme caution if you drive to mountain areas.
  • Continued isolated thunderstorms, snowfall and high winds are forecasted.
  • Watch for falling trees, downed power lines, rock and mud slides.

Practice Water Safety
 Even the most seasoned of water enthusiasts can be surprised by changing water conditions. 

Water Saftey Tips Are Available Here

With significant rain and snowfall, the public is encouraged to drive slowly and carefully, always stay on the road, and be aware of oncoming traffic. Vehicles should never park in areas that block roads or driveways.

For current conditions and closure information, contact your District Ranger Station, Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm:

• Kern River Ranger District - 760-376-3781
• Hume Lake Ranger District - 559-338-2251
• Western Divide Ranger District - 559-539-2607

Seasonal closures are designed to help protect road surfaces and natural resources. Please help us protect our roads and reduce maintenance costs by adhering to the seasonal closures.

  • Hume Lake Ranger District

    A placeholder image

    For current open and closed recreation information, contact the HLRD Station, Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm at 559-338-2251, email SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov, or view the district recreation report available below.

  • Western Divide Ranger District

    A placeholder image

    For current open and closed recreation information, contact the WDRD Station, Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm at 559-539-2607, email SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov, or view the district recreation report available below.

  • Kern River Ranger District

    A placeholder image

    For current open and closed recreation information, contact the KRRD Station, Monday thru Friday from 8 am to 4:30 pm at 760-376-3781, email SM.FS.SequoiaNF@usda.gov, or view the district recreation report available below.

  • Passes and Permits

    A placeholder image

    Interagency recreation passes provide access to recreation sites managed by a number of Federal agencies.

  • Maps and Publication

    22 Forest Maps

    Get ready for your visit by checking out our detailed maps, brochures, and information guides.

  • Alerts, Notices, and Forest Orders

    A placeholder image

    Simply knowing the Forest Orders, current conditions, alerts, and closures prepares you for a pleasurable outdoor experience with no surprises!

Many services are available online

 
 
We have lots more information about recreation opportunities across the forest!

Bosque Nacional Sequoia en Español Aquí!

Features

Forest Closes Location of the Historic Big Blue Mill Site to Public Access

The Sequoia National Forest has closed the Historic Big Blue Mill (Site) due to elevated levels of heavy metals that were determined to be a potential risk to public health. The Forest Service will be conducting an Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis (EECA) this Fall/Winter to evaluate Removal Action alternatives in order to reduce the risk of exposure to human health and the environment. 

View Feature