safe holiday weekend, we’ve put together some helpful information and things to keep in mind.Campgrounds
Campground reservations for the holiday weekend are fully booked, and first-come-first-served (walk-in) campsites are likely to fill by Wednesday. To make future reservations, visit www.recreation.gov.
Please be aware that no public showers are available in Grant Grove or Cedar Grove. Portable showers are permitted if you collect the water and dispose of it in one of the outdoor sinks.
Fireworks and Fire Safety
For everyone’s safety, fireworks are not allowed in the parks. They are illegal year-round, and this is even more critical during the hot summer months as fire danger increases.
Never leave a campfire or BBQ unattended. If it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave. Always fully extinguish your campfires before going to bed or departing your site.
Driving and Shuttles
Avoid long waiting periods by arriving prior to 10am or after 3pm, and have your method of payment ready when you arrive at the gate. Having snacks, water, and a full tank of gas is also recommended.
Help decrease the waiting times by purchasing your park pass online ahead of time. This greatly reduces the amount of time spent at the entrance gate. Visit www.recreation.gov/pass.
The Sequoia Shuttle is a great way to have a more enjoyable park experience. The Sequoia Shuttle runs from Visalia to the Giant Forest in Sequoia National Park (via Hwy 198). The $20 reservation cost includes your entrance fee. More information can be found at www.sequoiashuttle.com.
Moro Rock/Crescent Meadow Road will be closed to personal vehicles July 4 through July 7 for the holiday weekend. Access that area by shuttle, bicycle, or on foot.
River Safety
This year’s heavy snow pack and warming temperatures have resulted in extremely dangerous river conditions. The cold, swift, and dangerous Kaweah River and South Fork of the Kings River is posing a greater risk to public safety than in recent years. The park urges visitors to enjoy areas of the park that are away from the river. Getting in the river or going near it could create a life or death situation.
Bears
It is very important that visitors not approach bears of any size and store food properly. Bears can grab unattended food or easily break into cars that have food in them. All food or anything with a scent must be stored and out of sight, and trash must be disposed of in bear-resistant cans and dumpsters.
First Time Visitors
If you are visiting the parks for the first time, or you haven’t been here in a while, make sure to look through the park newspaper you receive when entering the gate. Information about services and things to do are categorized by area, and a helpful shuttle and parking map can be found on the back page. You’ll also be handed a park map with more information about what makes our parks special.
Stop by one of our visitor centers to speak with a friendly park ranger or volunteer about trip-planning, current conditions and more. You’ll also find a list of ranger programs outside each visitor center, don’t miss them!
For information about the many things to do and see in our parks prior to visiting, visit our website www.nps.gov/seki.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks wish you a fun and safe holiday weekend!
Source :Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Photo Credit: USDA
