Cedar Grove Lodge

Overview

Cedar Grove Lodge is the only lodge at the bottom of Kings Canyon, tucked beside the Kings River and ringed by granite walls. It’s a seasonal, low-frills base camp for exploring Zumwalt Meadow, Roaring River Falls, Muir Rock, and the trailheads at Road’s End. Expect quiet nights, starry skies, and a winding drive to get here.

Rooms & Facilities

There are 21 simple rooms: Standard Rooms with two queen beds, and Patio Rooms that add a kitchenette (sink, mini-fridge/freezer, microwave) and a private patio. All rooms have private bathrooms and telephones, and air conditioning is available. Rollaway beds aren’t offered. Limited Wi‑Fi may be available for hotel guests.

On site you’ll find a market/gift shop (groceries, snacks, souvenirs, ice) and an ATM. The counter-service snack bar serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with indoor and outdoor seating. Summer-only showers and a small laundry operate via tokens from the front desk; these can close during water-conservation periods. Parking is on-site, and the Cedar Grove Visitor Center is a short walk away.

Why Stay Here

Location is the draw. You’re minutes from canyon highlights and riverside strolls, making it an easy step up from camping without leaving the action. Rooms are rustic and functional rather than fancy—think “base camp with a comfy bed.” Many guests appreciate the friendly staff and the convenience of grabbing food or forgotten items without a long drive.

Wildlife

This is prime bear country. You may spot wildlife near the river and meadows, especially at dawn and dusk. Store food properly, keep coolers out of sight, and stay alert on early-morning walks around the lodge.

Nearby & Don’t-Miss

• Roaring River Falls (about 3 miles)
• Zumwalt Meadow (about 5.5 miles)
• Muir Rock and Road’s End (staging area for popular day hikes and backpacking)
• Views of North Dome and Grand Sentinel along the canyon

Best Time to Visit

Open roughly May to mid‑October, with plans to reopen May 10, 2025. Weekdays see lighter crowds on trails and at the snack bar. Mornings and late afternoons bring softer light in the canyon and the best chance for wildlife. Afternoons can be warm; AC in rooms helps, but start hikes early.

Planning & Logistics

• The front desk closes around 9 pm and there’s no after‑hours check‑in—plan your arrival accordingly.
• The drive down is long and winding; fuel up before the descent, as there’s no gas in the canyon.
• Food options are convenient but limited; picky eaters should bring a small cooler. Services like showers/laundry can be paused during drought.
• Standard Rooms fit two beds; choose a Patio Room if a kitchenette and outdoor space matter to you.