Sequoia National Forest — Attraction in Porterville

This place is like no other. It is one of the few places in the world where you can explore 5 completely different and extremely beautiful ecosystems all in one area. There's world class rafting and kayaking. There are natural hot springs, beautiful lakes, raging rivers, golfing, camping, many hiking trails including the Pacific Crest Trail. If your lucky, there is still gold and silver to be found among the rocky terrain. Summers would be unbearablly hot if it weren't for the lakes and rivers. Winters get cold enough to snow even in the valleys and there are several places to hit the slopes. The best time of year is spring and fall when the temperature during the day is almost perfect and evenings are crisp and refreshing. No matter what time of the year, this area is among the top 5 best places in the U.S. for star gazing due to it's low light pollution. Most nights you can even see the star dust and space clouds with the naked eye. It feels like the last surviving place of the "Old Wild West." Most locals are friendly, hard working, and eager to help when help is needed. Of course it has some economic and social problems like all places big or small, including a high methamphetamine problem. However, the natural beauty of this place is intoxicating all by itself and enough to put one in a state of complete bliss. But be warned! DO NOT HANG OUT NEAR OR IN THE KERN RIVER WITHOUT A LIFE JACKET. IT IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AND DECEIVING IN CERTAIN AREAS, ESPECIALLY KEYESVILLE AREA IN LAKE ISABELLA. Last summer 15 people lost their lives...

Beautiful setup for ease of navigating the forest to see the giant sequoias. What I like about the forest is that you can bring your dogs with you and there are quite a few other dogs, so I recommend well behaved dogs only. I brought a stroller for one of my dogs that seem to get tired after a while. It’s a 1.3ish mile walk but you stop and take photos and read signs so it took us about 2.5-3hours just to gander around and enjoy the scenery. The path is paved but it’s a bit narrow. The stroller I brought pretty much took up all the path but that’s good to know because if you have a wheelchair you’ll fit. There was parking and someone working it to tell you where to park and taking payment of $12 cash. We parked at the first parking lot we came across but the maps show another lot south. There’s two park entrances to the forest- you’ll come up on the north one first but if you keep going a bit you’ll come across the south entrance and parking lot. There are bathrooms but they are the most outside indoor bathrooms I’ve ever used. No light, no running water just a portalet toilet inside of a room that looks like a building- there was toilet paper. Bring some hand sanitizer and wipes for after use.

The drive there… 55 minutes before you get there you start the willldddd drive up there. The roads are very curvy with switchbacks. If you are sensitive to getting carsick, I would recommend taking your necessary precautions...

Sequoia National Forest is one of the most beautiful and diverse national forests in the United States. Located in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Forest contains over one million acres of land with various ecosystems ranging from alpine meadows to old-growth redwood groves. The forest also includes two designated wilderness areas and popular recreational sites such as Hume Lake, Giant Sequoia Monument, and Kings Canyon National Park.

The beauty and diversity that makes up this park have made it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore nature at its finest. From camping trips along scenic trails or fishing on crystal clear lakes, visitors can experience all this majestic region has to offer without having to venture too far from civilization. In addition, plenty of activities are available year-round, including hiking through ancient sequoias or snowshoeing during winter months.

Sequoia National Forest provides an incredible escape into nature for those who wish to take a break from their everyday lives. With its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and wide range of recreational activities, it’s no wonder why so many people have fallen in love with this magical place. So whether you’re looking for adventure or want to get away from it all - you won’t be disappointed by what awaits you within these...