Restaurants in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Major improvements and additions to the restaurant scene in these parks in recent years mean that, yes, you can have a really good meal, or, if you prefer, find a quick and tasty lunch at a fairly reasonable price. In addition, there are several good possibilities in the communities outside the parks, as well as within the Giant Sequoia National Monument.

Inside the Parks

Every Wednesday through Sunday from mid-June to early August, an all-you-can-eat barbecue takes place in the beautiful outdoor setting of Wolverton Meadow, just south of Lodgepole in Sequoia National Park. Tickets can be purchased at the Wuksachi Lodge or Lodgepole Market. Call tel. 866/807-3598 for information.

There is also a seasonal pizzeria at Stony Creek Lodge, on Generals Highway between Grant Grove and Wuksachi, which serves lunch and dinner from 11am to 8 or 9pm.

Outside the Parks

In Three Rivers, Serrano's, 40869 Sierra Dr. (tel. 559/561-7283), is a good family-run Mexican restaurant with spicy salsa and tasty carne asada.

Picnic & Camping Supplies

Stores throughout the parks stock some basic camping supplies, such as flashlights, canteens, and tarps, plus enough food that you won't starve, but you'll find better selections in the nearby towns.

Within the parks, most of the stores are open daily from 8am until 7 or 8pm. The Cedar Grove Market is open May through September only, as is the Lodgepole Market, which has the widest selection available, including a good deli for takeout sandwiches. The Grant Grove Market is open from 8am to 9pm May through August and from 8am to 7pm September through April. During the winter, a small selection of goods is available at Wuksachi Lodge, in Sequoia.

For the best selection and prices on foodstuffs outside the parks, stop in Visalia at Save Mart, 1591 E. Noble St., at CA 198 and Ben Maddox Way (tel. 559/636-0328), on your way to the parks. This is an excellent supermarket with a good bakery and a deli that serves made-to-order sandwiches. Just east of it is a Wal-Mart, at 1819 E. Noble Ave. (tel. 559/636-2302).