Camping at Headquarters Campground

Location and Contact Information

Headquarters Campground is situated in the Hume Lake District of Sequoia National Forest. The exact locality is generally off of Highway 180 on the way to Kings Canyon National Park. It's one of several campgrounds in the area, serving as a prime location for those looking to explore the seasonally accessible regions of Hume Lake and its surroundings.

To make inquiries or obtain the most up-to-date information, contacting the Hume Lake Ranger District office is recommended:

• Address: 35860 East Kings Canyon Road, Dunlap, CA 93621
• Phone: (559) 338-2251

Reservations and Fees

While some campgrounds in the Sequoia National Forest are first-come, first-served, you may find that Headquarters Campground accepts reservations. This can vary by season, and there may be a mix of reservable and non-reservable sites.

• Reservations: Check the Recreation.gov website or call their reservation line for availability and to book your site.
• Fees: Generally, there is a nightly fee to camp at Headquarters Campground. Prices can vary, so it's important to consult Recreation.gov or call the ranger district for the most current rates.

Campground Amenities

Headquarters Campground typically offers the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping experience, although these can be more basic compared to some of the private campgrounds:

• RVs & Trailers: Check specific size restrictions, but be aware that hookups are not usually available.
• Tent Camping: Sites are available for tent camping with standard amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets are typically available, but there may not be showers or flush toilets.
• Water: Potable water is usually accessible, but availability may depend on the season and drought conditions.

Activities and Attractions

The area around Headquarters Campground is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers:

• Hume Lake: Fishing, swimming, boating, and kayaking are popular on the lake.
• Trails: There are hiking and mountain biking trails for all levels of experience.
• Sightseeing: Proximity to both Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks means easy access to giant sequoias, deep canyons, mountainous landscapes, and wildlife viewing.

Regulations and Safety

When camping at Headquarters Campground, it's important to follow all posted regulations to preserve the area and ensure safety:

• Fire Safety: Check current fire restrictions. Generally, fires are allowed in designated rings but can be banned during high fire danger.
• Wildlife: Proper food storage is crucial to prevent bear and wildlife encounters.
• Pets: Usually allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Seasonal Considerations

Sequoia National Forest experiences a variety of weather conditions, and facilities may not be operational year-round due to snow and other seasonal challenges:

• Operational Season: The campground may only be open and fully operational during specific months of the year, often from late spring to early fall.
• Weather Conditions: Always check the forecast and come prepared for sudden weather changes.

Accessibility

The campground aims to be accessible to all visitors:

• Accessible Sites: There may be specific campsites that are designed for accessibility. Check availability when reserving.
• Amenities: Restrooms and other facilities are built to be accessible when possible.

Local Services and Supplies

The nearest services are in the surrounding communities where you can find general stores, gas stations, and some dining options:

• Hume Lake: Close by with a Christian camp that operates a small store and snack shop.
• Towns: Grant Grove and Squaw Valley are two of the nearest locales with services.

Important Advisories

Keep an eye out for any alerts about forest fires, road closures, or other advisories:

• Forest Service Alerts: The USDA Forest Service website provides updates on conditions, closures, and important notices.
• Local Advisories: Check with the Hume Lake Ranger District for any specific local advisories before your visit.

Before venturing out, it is always best to verify all current information either online or by contacting the Hume Lake Ranger District directly, as conditions and regulations can change.