Is Sequoia National Park in California a good place to take young children on vacation?
Fayzabad I am planning a family vacation. I have a 2 and 5 year old. I remember the pictures of people driving through the forest looking at the trees. I am not sure how much hiking and walking will be required.
I would like an outdoor trip for the family. We’ve never been out camping and it is a shame.
If you have any other suggestions it would be appreciated. Keep in mind that the only seasoned camper in our group is my husband. I am not ready to carry 2 kids up a mountain. 🙂
One Response
Sara
22 Jun 2010
Absolutely! I used to be a park ranger at Kings Canyon NP, which is right next door to Sequoia NP. Both parks are great for families (and the same entry pass gets you into both for the same price).
You can camp in the parks at comfy developed campgrounds, most of which are first-come, first-served. But you’ll need reservations to camp at Lodgepole, which is the most popular and closest to the Giant Forest. Alternatively, the parks have a few rustic lodge hotels to stay at.
http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/campgrounds.htm
http://www.sequoia-kingscanyon.com/
http://www.visitsequoia.com/
You can hike as much or as little as you want to, and the scenic drives are amazing. The Giant Forest in Sequoia NP has nice, level nature trails of all lengths that are great for kids. They also have the Beetle Rock Nature Center with all kinds of free activities for kids. The Foothills area of Sequoia NP also has some swimming spots along the river for families.
http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/dayhikes.htm
http://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/rangerprogsched.htm
I highly recommend visiting Sequoia NP, especially because it’s less crowded than Yosemite NP. And while you’re there, visit Kings Canyon NP, too. Both are so much fun with kids!