Lake Success

(39 reviews)

7.8 mi

I don't know how to even describe this park, maybe, magical... The sequoias are majestic with sugar…read morepines sprinkled all around. I was here with the Sisters Corp. to do some volunteer work. I did not want to miss the opportunity to give my time for this beautiful place. This is my first time to visit this National Park and I know now it will not be my last. My first day at the volunteer camp group site as we gathered at the table to meet each other and go over the agenda for the weekend we had the opportunity to see a black bear casually roam through our campground near the tents (one of them was mine). We were all informed prior to arriving not to leave any scented items in the tents. No one wonder the bear kept moving along, but with the help of our camp host shooing it away from the campground. This is something we learned from the rangers, is to shoo them away so they don't get in the habit of coming around. The park offers many hiking trails, I had the chance to do one of many, which was the Long Meadow Trail. Very beautiful, plenty of foliage and evidence of a bear in the area. Another part of the park I got to visit was General Sherman. There is a park ranger that will tell you the history of the General Sherman tree. You can wait in a long line to take a pic in front of the tree with a General Sherman sign. Or you can take a pic around the fenced majestic tree. I choose not to wait in line. I had the chance to shuttle to General Sherman tree from the Museum. The Shuttle is free and seems to come every 10-15 min. From General Sherman I also shuttled to the Lodgepole marketplace and visitor center. In this area are bathrooms with showers (coin operated, quarters). The Marketplace has an area to order some food and also a section where you can purchase some ice cream by the scoop. The store offers assorted ice cream bars. The visitor center offers gift items as well as the marketplace. At the front of the visitor center they had a ranger available at a booth if you had any questions. This place is quite busy! Parking lot is a madhouse. Nearby is a campground you may want to check out or ask the ranger for some info. If you can, arrive early, find parking at the Museum and shuttle to everything if you can. Warning, when I was doing volunteer work in the parking lot across from the museum we witnessed a black bear enjoying some berries in the bushes. I'm not sure if they will venture into the parking lot with a lot human activity going on but be careful what you leave in your car, anything and everything with a scent. The park has so much to see. I look forward to returning to volunteer and to take advantage of what the park has to offer.

Best national park I've ever been to and that's saying a lot…read more It's magical, and I highly recommend getting to the Sherman trailhead prior to 9:30am if you want a parking spot. Takes about an hour to get in there, up there and parked so plan accordingly. The congress trail was amazing and for a 3.5 mile hike it took about 2.5 hours with frequent stops for pictures. Highly recommend a stop at lodge pole for refreshments and merch. Incredible experience from start to finish.

One of the restaurants in the National park

Morro Rock.

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Fungi

Lake Success Marina

0.0 mi

We have rented party barges twice from the marina. Both times we had a wonderful time! They are…read morehelpful and informative about the lake and boats you rent. The kids all had a great time jumping and swimming and sliding into the lake. We hope to rent again this summer.

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Mountain Descents

4.9

(60 reviews)

26.4 mi

My sister and I took the intermediate course with Mountain Descents River Rafting, and it…read morecompletely exceeded our expectations. It was definitely more intense than I originally thought, but in a way that made the whole experience even more thrilling. Our guide, DJ (I think!), had a sense of humor that made the whole ride even more fun. We both left feeling exhilarated and already talking about doing it again next time we're visiting Sequoia.

Everyone was very chill, and more than knowledgeable. Plenty of range for experience…read more Definitely a must try.

River rafting adventure

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Success Lake

3.5

(4 reviews)

1.7 mi

I have loved lake success for about 27 years! Every time I think about best experience of my life…read moreit's always, spending the night in the middle of the lake on patio boat top, with blow up mattress, my best friends underneath on first level. The stars are the most perfect and beautiful I've ever seen! No mosquitos because we stay in the middle away from the bugs. Never has there been anywhere close to this! Then waking up early when light comes, and jumping in the water it's pure heaven! I've come all the way out from Texas because my friends told me water is high enough again, and I'm soooo looking forward to reliving that perfect experience!

We camped at Lake Success Labor Day weekend, water was shut down by 10pm + all bathrooms/showers…read morewere closed by management as well. Only 2 porter potties available to use however they were disgustingly dirty. But they did go around and warned everyone to lower music by 10pm yet they didn't warn everyone bathroom and water would be shut down. Will not be coming back again!

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Rental prices

Tule Campground At Success Lake

2.8

(6 reviews)

1.7 mi

this is a pretty nice campground. spacious sites and easy to book online. little dried up success…read morelake.

Went here on a hot summer day to escape the 100+ degree heat. It was cool that you could park right…read moreon the beach of the lake and have all your junk for hanging out right there. We set up some chairs and canopy. Had some beers and lunch. It was fairly pleasant except for the GAS smell. The whole time, it just smelled like gas. Someone had a jet ski parked inside the roped-off swimming area. The water in the swimming area was stale and tepid and smelled like gas. I went in despite that, and it was gross. The muddy lake bottom and uncomfortably warm water added to the disgust. Once you get far enough into the lake it was cool and comfortable, but geez - right by the shore was awful. I'll just rent a boat next time, haha.

My boyfriend and his father relaxing by the fire

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The view from our campsite back in May of 2018 . It's a nice view .

Costa's Twin Lakes

4.0

4.8 mi

It is like a heaven, if you spend the night there is even better. You should see the moonrise when…read moreit comes out behind the mountain you feel like it is very close to you. Good for fishing, hiking, camping, horse riding, hunting more and more. Good place to spend the weekend.

Sometimes I forget that I grew up on an old cattle ranch. There are a set of twin lakes (more like…read moreponds) that are @ the end of my street. Growing up my bros and I would go biking, fishing, or exploring around these lakes. There is a cute tackle shop that is ran by the family that owns it & there are cute fishing huts that are good for fishing in or hide and ghost seek.

Sequoia National Forest

4.6

(8 reviews)

9.1 mi

Absolutely stunning, amazing views, fresh air and super clean area. Lots of trash's located around…read more Peaceful. From entrance it's 45mins to get to the sequoia trees. Sundays don't require a fee. Definitely recommend. open 24/7 365 days a year.

I've always wanted to go to the Sequoia's. I didn't know what to expect but wanted to try and make…read morea loop so we drove up through Kernville. The Kern river was especially high and so were the temperatures. We ascended into the forest pretty quickly, following the river. There's a ton of camping along the river but not a lot of "forest". We stayed at the Durrwood Creek Lodge B&B for the night and got a fresh start early the next morning. About 10 miles up the road it finally started looking more "forest"like. But still a dry desert like California forest. As we continued driving we came across the 100 Giant Sequoia's park. We parked for $5 and walked amongst some ancient trees. The walk is paved and easily accessible for all. There were a lot of dead and fallen trees throughout the forest which was a bit sad and disheartening. The droughts, bark beetles, fires and wind storms really has taken a toll on this beautiful forest. I did learn that there is a difference between the National Forest and National Park. This is the National Forest. Land that has been set aside, in its natural habitat with minimal impact. There is primitive camping, hunting, and less maintained services. The Kings Canyon Sequoia National Park is more maintained with lodging, camping and visitor centers and requires an entrance fee. Both have giant Sequoia's. The road was maintained and an easy day drive. We made several stops to take photos and even came across several waterfalls right off the highway. We drove through a couple of small little towns. They're is a few restaurants, but no gas or cell service. I did enjoy seeing the giant Sequoia's. And if really like to rent a yurt up there! I look forward to getting through the National Park next.

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Eagle's Nest Resort

3.3

(15 reviews)

2.1 mi

As of May 2026, all water has to be boiled, per State of California. Come with your water tank full…read moreor buy bottled water for drinking. Very nice staff. Sites closer together than I prefer but it was quiet. We brought more people than can sleep in our RV so we usually set up a small tent. When making the reservation they said we could set up a tent next to our RV but we were not comfortable with neighbors so close. Restrooms at office had screen door only. When stepping out of the shower, I felt exposed to entire campground, especially at night with lights on inside. Before coming to this place again, I would call and ask if some of these issues have been resolved.

Eagles nest is a nice rv stop. Very nice grounds and the management is fantastic. Close to hwy but…read more there was no noise at all. Wonderful place.

Sites are close to each other. Space 28 right across from office. My trailer and neighbor's slide-out. Too close for comfort.

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Site 28 on the right. Picnic table and car on left belong to another site.

San Joaquin River Parkway & Conservation Trust

(13 reviews)

74.9 mi

An excellent place to volunteer!…read more This is a review of Coexist with Wildlife Day, which was awesome: a bio blitz, some volunteer work and tacos from a food truck with a band. Also free Otter Pops!

I really enjoyed visiting the River Pky. We gathered for a meeting and for some attendees, it was…read moretheir first visit and the atmosphere was amazing for all. I have been back just to enjoy the grounds. So pretty!

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Tommy's Boats

4.3

(16 reviews)

76.1 mi

What a joke! Don't go here. Says they offer boat repairs and this is the message I received from…read morethe manager when I asked for some work done. The worst customer service. They only care about the initial sale.

First, Boulder Boats typically has a great selection of new and used boats. I had been watching…read moretheir site for about a year and had a good feeling this was a high-probability buy site! In summary, the whole buying experience was truly great in every way. Jake, did his part to understand what I was after and intuitively took me a bit further down a less-expensive road, whatttt?! And, he made the right call. Also, he worked with me as I worked him on the price. We did not frustrate, but methodically worked out a fair price, and he certainly held up his end of the bargain. For that alone, he gets 5 stars! Next, the boat checkout. I was probably an easy customer having been around boats all my life. Nonetheless, Dillon (sorry Dylan, if I butchered your name!) was timely, efficient, patient, and willing to help and answer any and all questions in the parking lot, on the lake, and on the ramp. 5 stars. Matt, the main service guy. This is a tough one because I know boats and love to work on them, buuuuutttt I had to let go and have Matt "geeter dun" as I had little time. We had to come to terms on several technical issues and haggle a bit on the cost, but his patience, experience, and knowledge resulted in a very sano install for a reasonable price. In the end, he and his crew did an excellent job installing ballast, batteries, prop, full engine service, trailer service, and he got us on the road promptly and confidently on a Saturday morning before a 400-mile tow. The tow went without incident, and the boat ran great. Thanks Matt! 5 stars. Cameron. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and patient. Hung with us through a 2-hour shopping spree including boat stuff, life jackets, wake surfers, and wake surf gear. Gear selection was good, but not quite Overton's or iBoat (duh!). Regardless, Cameron was extremely helpful and earned his 5 stars too! Dusty. Came and went, but checked on us often to ensure that all was good. He exuded customer care. 5 stars. Last but not least, Ann. She was obviously efficient at what she does and provided concise and friendly closure to our experience at Boulder Boats. Pretty sure she went an extra yard or two with the DMV while procuring our plates and registration. Big thanks Ann, 5 stars! All in all, a pleasurable and awesome experience with a really great team of individuals. Pretty sure this is not the norm when it comes to buying a boat. We would gladly do it again!

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Trail of 100 Giants

4.6

(71 reviews)

29.5 mi

Great trip and escape from civilization. Be prepared for no phone reception. Lots of beautiful…read moretrees. Also had a chance to see how much damage was done from the fires. $12 for parking. You can pay using an envelope in a box and detaching part of the slip and putting it in your window or walk about one block down to the gift store and pay with debit. Gift store has water and snacks. Can be pretty populated during the weekend so you don't get a chance to absorb the full nature of quietness and peacefulness but still a great visit. Parking is fairly Limited.

It is a paved trail, technically a hike trail but mentally and physically not. Cool little trail…read morefor city people to learn about the sequoias and history of the trees. Please stay on the trail and pick up all your trash

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Sequoia Guides

(12 reviews)

26.3 mi

If you do one thing in Sequoia & Kings Canyon make it a tour with Krista at Sequoia Guides!…read more We experienced a snow shoeing tour and had a party of 5 ranging in age from 9 to 53. Krista was fantastic at making us feel confident in our abilities. She showed interest in each of us and answered every question we had. This was my 3rd time visiting Sequoia & Kings Canyon and I learned things I never knew! She is exceptionally knowledgeable about Sequoia & Kings Canyon. This was the highlight of our trip! We will be back for a spring/summer tour before too long!

I was born in ND and lived near Redding, CA for 30 years. Now I live in Springville, CA and it's a…read moreshort 45 minute drive to the sequoia's. Beautiful drive...wonderful scenic area and my family will visit again and again!!

Visit the largest trees in the world! General Sherman - Sequoia National Park

My wife with Krista

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Mountain Trekking Adventures

26.3 mi

An awesome family tour of Sequoia National Park enriched with an excellent tour guide, Pani of…read moremountain trekking adventures! We all learned so much about the history and geology of this vast Park. Having a knowledgeable tour guide really eliminates any stress of searching for features you want to see! Our party of 10 agreed we had the best park trip ever with Pani guiding us through the exceptional features of Sequoia national park. We are spoiled now and highly recommend mountain trekking adventures for anyone going to the Sequoia national Park or Kings Canyon national parks.

What an incredible experience! It's truly a gift to have a guide who has spent their life living in…read moreand exploring these mountains. It's a rare and priceless opportunity to be shown this special area by someone so connected and committed to the place. Pani's guidance is truly from the heart, and when you add his lifetime of experience exploring here, you have a guided tour that cannot be matched elsewhere. His love of the place is infectious and he's fun, flexible and kind. So thankful to have had him as our guide!

Fun can always be found on our hikes

Kings Canyon is over 8000ft deep in some spots, we will take you through it with special stops all along the way.

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Lake Success - lakes - Updated August 2026

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Costa's Twin Lakes

4.0

It is like a heaven, if you spend the night there is even better. You should see the moonrise when…read moreit comes out behind the mountain you feel like it is very close to you. Good for fishing, hiking, camping, horse riding, hunting more and more. Good place to spend the weekend.

Sometimes I forget that I grew up on an old cattle ranch. There are a set of twin lakes (more like…read moreponds) that are @ the end of my street. Growing up my bros and I would go biking, fishing, or exploring around these lakes. There is a cute tackle shop that is ran by the family that owns it & there are cute fishing huts that are good for fishing in or hide and ghost seek.

Sunday Peak Trail

My husband & I hiked here on May 23rd, 2015. We've hiked this trail once before, back in the summer…read more(a few years ago), and it's always really nice & enjoyable hike. It can be a little challenging right toward the top of the summit but otherwise, it's a pretty easy hike. The weather during this time 5/23, happened to be much cooler (50's), foggy, cloudy & windy....especially at the summit compared to our hike a few years ago, mid-summer. It is much warmer during mid-late summer, along with much clearer skies for the view from the summit (we didn't get to enjoy our view since it was foggy/cloudy this time :( ). Bring layers of clothes, especially in the fall and spring. Also the view from the summit is truly amazing! The hike only takes a few hours and is a perfect, quick, little getaway from the city. There are places on top of the summit where you can sit and enjoy the view, relax, & eat snacks/lunch. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and stay hydrated! "The dry, shaded hike beneath the canopy of conifers along loose dirt and pine mulch accented by decorator boulders is easy on the paws, and the wide-angle perspective from the top, a visual treat. The hike kicks off with a stiff ascent before tapering off to a more gradual incline. A trail marker along the way indicates that you are hiking in the Giant Sequoia National Monument." Location: Kern County, about 9 miles west of Kernville, 185 miles from Los Angeles ROUTE 1 Distance: 3 1/2 miles round trip on trail Gain: 1000' Time: 2 hours round trip Rating: Class 1, moderate Navigation: Easy Leader Rating: "O", normal conditions

Kaweah Oaks Preserve

4.4

(21 reviews)

Always love walking here, the cute cows come out in the summer and at sunset the bunnies come out!read more

A great place to hike and bring your dog. I went here after work, so I could get some fresh air. I…read morespent over an hour just exploring.

Murry Park

4.0

Cute little park with nice shaded areas and fat geese wandering about. Only complaint is the…read moreparking is a bit limited. I'll be back!

Large park, lots to do. Shady areas for picnics, two separate playground areas, small pond where…read morefishing takes place, the public pool is located at the top and there is a road that drives through the park for ease of access.

Bartlet Park

3.0

It smelled really bad, too many mosquitos . There were nice views but I'm not too crazy about itread more

Dome Rock

(4 reviews)

Such a spectacular view. While camping totally off grid this is a magnificent and beautiful way to…read morenot only see the surrounding area but to check in at home. The phones work up there.

What can I say about this amazing breathtaking peaceful spots. If you haven't been out to Dome…read moreRock , please make it a point to go, you will literally be speechless with the view before you. Hearing the wind blow between the trees sounds like there's a river running at your feet. Once you are there all you want to do is stare out and breathe in the beauty God has created for all of us to enjoy.

Packsaddle Trail

(3 reviews)

Packsaddle hiking trail is located about 14 miles north of Kernville, located in Tulare county…read more Parking lot for Packsaddle trail is located about 500 feet past McNally's Fairview Lodge if your heading north. Trail head starts right across the street from parking lot. Make sure you stretch and be ready to start off with a steep climb for about a mile and a half befor you get a break. When you start hiking the trail, you will come to a fork on the trail about 200 feet from the start, stay to the RIGHT. You will cross the creek about 3 times back and fourth. Be careful after stepping on water or moist soil and then stepping on rocks. Yours boots, shoes might be very slippery after stepping on water, so don't slip and fall. Trail is about 5 miles total round trip. The only part that confuses everybody is where the trail splits off again, one towards the cave and the other towards I think it's called Rincon trail. (Look at my Packsaddle pics) the trail is pretty awesome, I have NEVER seen any Mtn lions, bears, bats or Bigfoot inside the cave. I have only seen small birds flying in and out. The cave is a little dusty, so take a mask if you don't deal to well with dust and don't forget to take a flashlight. I normally explore first and then eat my snacks after. Make sure you pack back in what ever you pack out. Normally after a good hike I love to stop into Kern River brewery for some delicious beers and a delicious burger. Happy hiking.....

This hike was pretty long. We briefly skimmed the information on this hike before starting and we…read morecould not find the cave on our own. In total, we walked 6 miles (3 miles in and 3 miles out). I definitely suggest bringing lots of water because the hike is draining as a majority of the way in is a steady uphill. There isn't much to see until you get to the "end" of the trail when you reach the small river, but the trek is worth it. We saw a small waterfall and plenty of wildlife. My group stayed at the Fairview Campsite that's right across the street to the trailhead and cooled down by the river afterward. Overall, I would suggest this hike to anyone looking for a challenge, but be prepared before you start!

Del Lago Park

(13 reviews)

This park is gorgeous. There is plenty of space to explore and have a picnic. There is also a lot…read moreof great wildlife like peacocks, ducks, and Jack rabbits. This is definitely a picturesque place to relax and enjoy nature. It started to rain the day we went, but next time I'd love to stay and enjoy the outdoors a bit longer.

Love this park it has the best scenery in Tulare! Love making new memories here, very quiet and…read morepeaceful, love how everyone enjoys themselves here.

Mooney Grove Park

3.4

(29 reviews)

6$ gets you admission to the dog friendly park and the museum but the museum does not allow dogs?…read moreMaybe could have mentioned that on the way in? Muesum staff was flippant and extremely rude when we attempted to enter with our disabled pug being carried in a backpack. It was over 100 degrees outside, no way we could leave her in the car. Park is covered in goose poop and the pond is a toilet bowl. Facilities were a disgrace. Totally not worth 6$, will not be back!

Visited on a sunny afternoon, and learned a lot about the history of the town of Visalia and Tulare…read moreCounty from the museum. No food, no drinks, no problem just leave them at the counter before you enter. The buildings were nice and air conditioned, so we stayed for awhile comfortably. The park was clean, and the geese were pretty aggressive, so if you bring your own picnic food, make sure you don't look away for too long!

Needles Lookout