Canyon View Campground

Spacious tent-only group sites near the river in Cedar Grove
Canyon View Campground, Kings Canyon National Park
InsideKings Canyon National Park

Overview

Canyon View Group Campground sits on the canyon floor of Cedar Grove, steps from the South Fork of the Kings River and surrounded by dramatic granite walls. It’s a tent‑only, group‑only setup—perfect if you’re bringing a crowd and want easy access to the area’s marquee hikes and waterfalls without feeling crammed together.

What You Get

  • 16 reservable group sites: four large (A, B, D) and one mid‑large (C), plus 12 mid‑sized sites.
  • Amenities at each site: picnic tables, fire ring, and multiple bear‑resistant food lockers (about 47"W × 33"D × 28"H).
  • Campground facilities: flush toilets and potable water. Showers and laundry are a quick 0.25‑mile hop at Cedar Grove Village.
  • Tent‑only: RVs and trailers aren’t permitted.
  • Capacity guidelines: mid‑sized sites up to 19 people/5 vehicles; A, B, D up to 40 people/10 vehicles; C up to 30 people/7 vehicles.

Location & Vibe

Right off Highway 180 and a short stroll from the river, the campground makes an easy base for exploring Mist Falls, Zumwalt Meadow, Roaring River Falls, and Grizzly Falls. Expect warm days and cool nights in season, with big‑wall views that glow at golden hour.

Nearby Sights & Activities

  • Trails: Mist Falls, Zumwalt Meadow, Roaring River Falls—all close and crowd‑pleasers.
  • Water features: the Kings River is ever‑present (beautiful, cold, and powerful—treat it with respect).
  • Extras: Boyden Cave and Hume Lake are within a reasonable drive; ranger programs run from the Cedar Grove Visitor Center when in season.

Rules & Good-to-Know

  • Bear country: use the food lockers every single time—day and night.
  • Quiet hours: 10 pm–6 am; generator hours 9 am–9 pm.
  • Vehicles: keep all wheels on pavement; use overflow parking if you’re maxed out.
  • Pets: allowed in the campground on a ≤6‑ft leash (not on park trails and never unattended).
  • Graywater: collect and dump at restrooms/dish sinks—never on the ground.
  • River safety: currents are swift and cold; rocks can be slick—mind your footing.
  • Check‑in/out is noon, and cell service is spotty; save or print your reservation.

Season & Reservations

Typically open May through October, and everything is reservation‑only. Summer weekends go fast; book early if you’re eyeing prime dates.

Best Time to Visit

  • For quieter vibes: mid‑week in late spring (May/early June) or early fall (September/October).
  • For cooler hiking temps and softer light on the canyon walls: mornings and late afternoons.
  • For group logistics: arrive before late afternoon to sort parking and food storage in daylight.

Who It’s For

Groups that actually want to be together—plenty of space for multiple tents, easy facilities, and instant access to Cedar Grove’s best scenery. If you’re in an RV or need reliable cell coverage, look elsewhere.

Pros

  • Spacious tent-only group sites with picnic tables and fire rings
  • Flush toilets, potable water, and bear boxes at each site
  • Quarter-mile to Cedar Grove Village for store, snacks, showers, and laundry

Cons

  • No RVs or trailers allowed
  • Limited cell service
  • Interior roads and pads can be rough with potholes

Tips

  • Book early—summer weekends and holidays fill fast.
  • Save or print your reservation; cell service is unreliable.
  • Use the bear lockers every time and keep dumpsters latched.
  • Keep all wheels on pavement and plan for overflow parking if needed.
  • Do dishes in a tub and dump graywater at restrooms or dish sinks.
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