2026 Firewood Permits Available in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit.
Official NPS sourcePERMANENT NPS STORY ARCHIVE
Travel Archive
Organized by publication date and destination. Each story retains its permanent State & Nation address and official NPS source.
2026-09-21
1 STORIES2026-08-25
1 STORIESDark Sky Festival brings science, stargazing and awe to the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and Sequoia Parks Conservancy will host the 13th annual Dark Sky Festival from Sept. 11-13, 2026. The festival invites visitors to explore astronomy, wildlife science and the human experience of wonder beneath some of California's darkest night skies. It will feature programming throughout Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks and, for the first time, in the gateway community of Three Rivers. Expanding to Three Rivers increases opportunities for people from nearby communities and the Central Valley to participate in astronomy and dark-sky science programs.
Official NPS source2026-08-23
1 STORIESU.S. Wildland Fire Service Wildland Firefighters are Working to Contain Arrow Creek Fire in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
U.S. Wildland Fire Service wildland firefighters are responding to the Arrow Creek Fire, which was reported on Aug. 22 at 3:26 p.m.
Official NPS source2026-05-14
1 STORIESPrescribed Burning in Sequoia National Park Foothills Begins May 21
Firefighters plan to conduct prescribed burning in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on May 21 – 22. Visitors who enter the parks through the southern entrance may notice this work taking place between the entrance and Foothills Visitor Center.
Official NPS source2026-04-10
1 STORIESCedar Grove Prescribed Burning Begins April 16
Fire management staff plan to conduct prescribed burning in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park beginning on April 16. Crews expect to broadcast burn about 92 acres on the valley floor. This work builds on 2025 fuels reduction efforts that treated 261 acres and areas affected by the 2024 Happy Fire.
Official NPS source2025-12-22
1 STORIESWinter storm expected at Sequoia and Kings Canyon during holiday week
As many families, friends, and solo adventurists often take time to enjoy their national parks over the holiday break, this year it is particularly important to double check the weather forecast and updated road conditions prior to arriving at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Official NPS source2025-12-05
1 STORIES100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree scheduled for December 14th
The 100th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 14th at 2 p.m. at the historic General Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 14th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
Official NPS source2025-11-26
1 STORIESThanksgiving weekend in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Thanksgiving weekend is typically busy in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, at a time of year when some services and attractions are closed for the winter. Planning will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Official NPS source2025-11-19
1 STORIESSolicitation of a Concession Business Opportunity to Operate Pack Station, Guided Trail Rides, Other Services within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are seeking proposals to provide pack station, guided trail rides, and other services from Cedar Grove Pack Station and Grant Grove Stables within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. The new concessioner will provide these services over a 10-year term. The existing contract that has been in place since January 1, 2019, concludes on December 31, 2026. The new contract will provide the same services as those offered under the current contract.
Official NPS source2025-11-13
1 STORIESResidential firewood permits available in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit. Residential firewood permits are free and must be obtained before wood can be removed. There is a limit of six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. This wood is a result of tree mortality, and were trees deemed to be a potential hazard to visitors or property within the parks.
Official NPS source2025-09-29
1 STORIESTourism to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks contributes $230 million to local economy
A new National Park Service report shows that a record 2,008,962 visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in 2024 spent $192.5 million in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $230.9 million.
Official NPS source2025-08-28
1 STORIESPlanning for a Busy Labor Day Weekend, Construction Projects to Follow at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Labor Day Weekend marks the end of the summer season and is historically a busy time at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For an enjoyable visit, it is important for visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for congestion in the parks.
Official NPS source2025-08-21
1 STORIESRangers remove illegal marijuana cultivation site from Sequoia National Park
National Park Service law enforcement rangers, in cooperation with special agents from the Bureau of Land Management, removed an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park last week.
Official NPS source2025-07-31
1 STORIESSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Wilderness Commercial Use Authorization Application Window Begins August 1
Beginning Friday, August 1, businesses can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) for select activities within designated wilderness areas of the parks, including stock and non-stock services, such as guided hiking, backpacking, fishing, and more.
Official NPS source2025-07-29
1 STORIESBody of Memorial Day weekend drowning located in Sequoia National Park
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) Swiftwater Dive Rescue Team (SDRT), in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS), located the body of 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of La Puente, California on July 24. Tulare County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity on July 28. She had been missing since May 25.
Official NPS source2025-07-14
1 STORIESMissing hiker found deceased in Sequoia National Park
A local missing hiker was found deceased below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, July 13. 36-year-old Drew Hall from Visalia was described as fit and active but was hiking in very rugged terrain. He had separated from his group earlier in the day on Saturday, with plans to meet up later. After not returning within the expected timeframe, family members reported him missing to Sequoia National Park that evening.
Official NPS source2025-07-01
1 STORIESPlan ahead for busy 2025 Fourth of July weekend
Fourth of July weekend is anticipated to be another busy weekend at the parks. During the recent four-day Memorial Day weekend, we welcomed over 21,000 visitors. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Below are some considerations to help you prepare for your visit and share space responsibly with fellow park-goers.
Official NPS source2025-06-24
1 STORIESIgnitions Complete on 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn
KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 24, 2025 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn. In all, approximately 126-acres were completed in the area of the entrance of Kings Canyon National Park. Completing this prescribed burn increases the historic Grant Grove’s chance of being defendable during an unwanted wildfire as was demonstrated during both the 2015 Rough Fire and the 2021 KNP Complex Fire.
Official NPS source2025-06-23
1 STORIESIgnitions Started on 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn in Kings Canyon National Park
KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 23, 2025 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions are planned to continue each day through June 24, 2025. The General Grant Tree remains available to visit as normal.
Official NPS source2025-06-17
1 STORIESSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks seek public input on Lodgepole Housing Rehabilitation and Replacement Project
The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public input from June 17 to July 16 on a proposal to rehabilitate and replace employee housing and related infrastructure in the Lodgepole Housing District serving Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Official NPS source2025-06-13
1 STORIESGrant Grove prescribed burning begins June 23
National Park Service fire management staff plan to begin prescribed burning ignitions in the Grant Grove area on June 23. The plan includes hand and aerial ignitions of 349 acres over six days at two locations – east of Highway 180, across from the Big Stump parking lot, and west of the General Grant Tree.
Official NPS source2025-06-10
1 STORIESStage 1 fire restrictions set to begin on June 11
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will enter stage 1 fire restrictions, which prohibit wood and charcoal fires including wood burning stoves, at 6 a.m. on June 11.
Official NPS source2025-06-05
1 STORIESSearch for woman in Sequoia National Park transitions to limited continuous mode as river conditions remain too dangerous to enter
Search efforts for 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of Los Angeles have transitioned to a limited continuous mode, meaning fewer resources are assigned to the search at this time. Public information is posted in the area and rescue staff will continue to monitor the river. When river conditions improve, possibly in the coming weeks, the team will reevaluate next steps.
Official NPS source2025-06-02
1 STORIESIgnitions Complete on 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 3, 2025 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park. In all, approximately 25 acres between the entrance to Sequoia National Park and the Foothills Visitor Center were treated. Completing this prescribed burn increases these places chance of being defendable during an unwanted wildfire as was demonstrated during the 2021 KNP Complex Fire.
Official NPS source2025-06-01
1 STORIESIgnitions Started on 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in Sequoia National Park
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 1, 2025 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions will continue each day through June 3, 2025
Official NPS source2025-05-30
1 STORIESSearch Continues For Woman In River Incident Over Memorial Day Weekend In Sequoia National Park
On May 25, over the holiday weekend, a 26-year-old woman was swept away in the cold, swift and dangerous river in Sequoia National Park. The incident occurred while recreating with friends and family near the river in the foothills area of the park. The search continues, and with a heat advisory beginning today, rivers will be extremely hazardous, and visitors should avoid swimming or getting too close.
Official NPS source2025-05-23
1 STORIESPrescribed Burning in the Foothills Area of Sequoia National Park Begins Sunday, June 1
Firefighters plan to begin ignitions on the 2025 Ash Mountain Prescribed Burn in the foothills of Sequoia National Park on Sunday, June 1. One to three days of ignitions are planned. This project consists of 29 acres of broadcast prescribed burning and an additional 10 acres of non-fire fuels reduction (using weed whips, chainsaws, etc.).
Official NPS source2025-05-19
1 STORIESWhat To Expect This 2025 Memorial Day Weekend At Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Memorial Day weekend is considered the summer “kick-off” for Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Park visitation exceeded a record 2 million visitors in 2024, which means the parks are busier than ever before. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable visit. Here are some things to keep in mind as you plan your holiday weekend trip.
Official NPS source2025-05-13
1 STORIESCrystal Cave in Sequoia National Park is reopening for 2025 summer season
Crystal Cave will reopen for guided tours on May 23 after four years of closure due to consecutive natural disasters in Sequoia National Park. This spectacular marble cave is near the Giant Forest area and is operated by Sequoia Parks Conservancy, the official park partner of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks.
Official NPS source2025-05-06
1 STORIESSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks move to fully cashless fee collection May 21
Beginning May 21, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will transition to a fully cashless fee system. Mobile payments, credit cards, or debit cards will be required to pay entrance fees. Visitors who are only able to pay with cash may purchase a park pass from one of five local third-party vendors, including the visitor center nearest each park entrance.
Official NPS source2025-04-23
1 STORIESMineral King Road construction closures and delays in place through 2027
A major rehabilitation construction project for Mineral King Road in Sequoia National Park began on April 1 this year and is planned to continue through the fall of 2027. Work will happen year-round, although this area of the parks is only open to public vehicle traffic from late May through October annually. Most visitors who come to the parks will not be impacted by this project, as the Mineral King Road turnoff from Highway 198 is located two miles prior to the main entrance of Sequoia National Park.
Official NPS source2025-04-21
1 STORIESCedar Grove to reopen on April 25 with limited services
After a seasonal winter closure, the Cedar Grove area in Kings Canyon National Park is set to reopen to visitor day use on Friday, April 25, at 7 a.m.
Official NPS source2025-03-28
1 STORIESSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Update Visitor Center Operations Schedule
Visitor center hours in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks will return to 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning Saturday, March 29.
Official NPS source2025-03-07
1 STORIESSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Change Visitor Center Operation Schedule
The Foothills Visitor Center, Kings Canyon Visitor Center, and Giant Forest Museum are now closed on scheduled days each week. Additionally, ranger programs in the parks are cancelled until further notice.
Official NPS source2024-12-06
1 STORIES99th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree Scheduled for December 8th
The 99th Annual Trek to the Nation’s Christmas Tree event is taking place on December 8th at 2 p.m. at the historic Grant Tree in Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park. The official ceremony will begin at 2:30p.m. This cherished tradition celebrates the Nation’s Christmas Tree, the General Grant Tree, which holds a significant place in our nation’s history. December 8th is a free entrance day at Sequoia and Kings Canyon.
Official NPS source2024-12-02
1 STORIES2024 Fire Restrictions Lifted at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Fire restrictions have been lifted in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Changes in weather patterns and recent precipitation have reduced the risk of unwanted human-caused fires. Even with restrictions lifted, visitors must still follow the parks’ year-round regulations concerning fire.
Official NPS source2024-11-25
1 STORIESWater System Upgrades Completed at Popular Lodgepole Campground Area
Visitors to Sequoia National Park, as well as park employees, will benefit from an upgraded water distribution system in the Lodgepole Campground area, thanks to a recently completed $11 million rehabilitation project.
Official NPS source2019-10-30
1 STORIESJoin Us in Sequoia National Park this Veteran’s Day for the Colonel Charles Young Memorial Highway Dedication
This Veteran’s Day join the National Park Service (NPS), the Colonel Charles Young Foundation and the Sequoia Parks Conservancy for a fun event commemorating the legacy of Colonel Charles Young. The portion of State Highway 198 from Salt Creek Road to the Sequoia National Park Entrance in Tulare County has been renamed “Colonel Charles Young Memorial Highway” through state legislation, with new signs in the process of being installed.
Official NPS source