Sierra National Forest California

Sierra National Forest Overview

Sierra National Forest is a large and diverse U.S. national forest located on the western slope of the Central Sierra Nevada mountains in California. It lies between Yosemite and Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks, making it part of a vast region of protected wilderness and mountainous terrain.

The forest covers roughly 1.3 million+ acres across Fresno, Madera and Mariposa counties. Elevations range from about 900 feet to nearly 14,000 feet above sea level.

It is known for its extraordinary highland panoramic views and its plentiful natural resources.  Its topography boasts multiple offerings, from rolling foothills covered with oak trees and mixed conifers. There is also heavily forested mid-elevation slopes and the amazingly stark and beautiful alpine landscapes.

The forest also contains several designated wilderness areas — including Ansel Adams, John Muir, Dinkey Lakes, Kaiser, and Monarch Wildernesses. There are also giant Sequoias groves such as Nelder Grove.

Sierra National Forest – Recreation and Activities

The National Forest offers a variety of outdoor recreation including backpacking, hiking, mountain biking, OHV trail riding,  hunting, fishing, boating, rafting, camping, horseback riding and picnicking. Wildlife viewing is also great with opportunities to see bear, deer, fox, bobcats, coyotes, beavers, reptiles and other forest creatures. A variety of birds like eagles, hawks and others also frequent the forest.

Amenities

• Amphitheater
• BBQ Grills
• Boat Launch/Ramp
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Poor
• Corrals
• Drinking Water
• Dumpsters
• Equestrian trail
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Firewood Available
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• Trash Collection

Activities

• ATVing
• Backpacking
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Climbing
• Fishing
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Horseback riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• OHVing
• OTV Trails/Riding
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Paddle Boating
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Rafting
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Water Sports
• Wildlife Viewing
• Winter/Snow Sports