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.
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.
Forest officials caution visitors due to strong Winter Storms
As intense winter storms continue to batter California, Sequoia National Forest officials remind the public to plan before visiting the Forest. 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.
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.
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Recreation
Headquartered in Porterville, California, the nearly 1.2 million acres of the Sequoia National Forest is comprised of the Giant Sequoia National Monument, and 3 ranger districts located in Kern, Tulare, and Fresno counties.
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Passes and Permits
Interagency recreation passes provide access to recreation sites managed by a number of Federal agencies.
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Maps and Publication
Get ready for your visit by checking out our detailed maps, brochures, and information guides.
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Alerts, Notices, and Forest Orders
Simply knowing the Forest Orders, current conditions, alerts, and closures prepares you for a pleasurable outdoor experience with no surprises!
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Plan Your Trip
The Sequoia National Forest provides a natural arena for a wide variety of fun and exciting outdoor activities. Some sites require a modest recreation fee to help provide the services and facilities at the site.
o Forest Orders
o Motorized Recreation Use Maps
o Contact Us
Many services are available online
- California Campfire Permits
- Annual or Lifetime Federal Recreation Pass, including all Senior Passes
- Forest Maps
Popular Recreation Activities
Recent News
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Sequoia National Forest Plans Ribbon-Cutting Celebration for New Forest Headquarters
Release Date: Jan 23, 2023 Porterville, CA
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USDA Forest Service Launches New Efforts in California to Address the Wildfire Crisis
Release Date: Jan 19, 2023
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.
Spotlights
Only You Can Prevent Wildfires
Millions of wildland acres will burn unintentionally this year.
It's Good To Get Outdoors!
Nature instills a peace and calmness we can't experience in our daily lives, and the more we discover the natural world around us, the more we will feel connected to the world