Today, fees for campsites in four campgrounds – Lodgepole, Dorst Creek, Buckeye Flat, and Potwisha – at Sequoia National Park increase to $22. This is the first fee increase since 2003.
The fee increase will provide for better customer service in several ways: by covering the cost of the reservation system – Recreation.gov – and providing funding for projects that improve many visitors’ experiences, such as staffing to assist campers, rehabilitation of campgrounds and picnic areas, development of trails and outdoor exhibits.
Both Potwisha and Buckeye Flat campgrounds are now on the reservation system for the first time this year. Starting today, reservations are available year round for campsites at Potwisha Campground with a limited number of first-come, first-served sites available during the busiest season (summer). Reservations will be necessary from May 21 to September 29 at Buckeye Flat Campground. Reservations for both campgrounds may be made up to six months in advance at (877) 444-6777 or www.recreation.gov.
Last summer, the public and other stakeholders were invited to provide feedback on a potential fee increase. The park issued a news release on August 22, 2013, to announce an open comment period from August 22 to September 21, 2013. Interested parties were encouraged to make comments electronically at the National Park Service’s Planning, Environment and Public Comment website or in writing by mail, fax or hand-delivery. The parks received six comments.
For more information about camping at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, call 559-565-3341 or visit www.nps.gov/seki. (Follow the link on the left side of the webpage to “Plan Your Visit.”)