Atwell Mill Campground

For Californians seeking a truly immersive and secluded wilderness experience within the iconic Sequoia National Park, Atwell Mill Campground offers a unique and unforgettable opportunity. Nestled at a higher elevation along the East Fork of the Kaweah River, in a grove that was once logged but now protects remaining giant sequoias, this primitive campground is a hidden gem for those willing to embark on an adventurous journey. It promises a quiet retreat from the more bustling areas of the park, providing a direct gateway to challenging hikes and the awe-inspiring beauty of the High Sierra.

Atwell Mill Campground is distinctively appealing to the seasoned outdoor enthusiast. Its remote location, accessed via the legendary Mineral King Road, instantly filters out casual visitors, ensuring a more tranquil and intimate connection with nature. This is not a campground for RVs or those seeking extensive amenities; instead, it offers a raw, authentic camping experience, where the focus is on the breathtaking natural environment. For the local Californian, Atwell Mill represents a cherished opportunity to delve deep into the heart of Sequoia National Park, to find solitude amidst towering trees, and to explore rugged trails, making it an ideal choice for those who truly embrace the wild side of California's magnificent national parks.

Atwell Mill Campground is located on Mineral King Rd, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA, deep within Sequoia National Park. It sits at an elevation of approximately 6,600 feet (2,012 meters). This campground is situated in the remote and rugged Mineral King area of the park, which is known for its dramatic landscapes and challenging access.

Access to Atwell Mill Campground is via the renowned Mineral King Road, a 25-mile long, narrow, winding, and largely unpaved road that turns off Highway 198 in Three Rivers. This road is famously not for the faint of heart, featuring tight turns, steep grades, and sections where it narrows to one lane with occasional need to accommodate two vehicles. It is crucial to note that RVs and trailers are not recommended and are not permitted in the campground due to the nature of the road. The drive itself can take up to 1.5 hours from Three Rivers. Due to snow, Mineral King Road is only open seasonally, typically from late May through late October. Visitors must check current road conditions and any construction delays (which can include full weekday closures during certain periods) before planning their trip. Atwell Mill Campground is 19 miles up this road, about 6 miles before the end of the road at Mineral King itself.

Atwell Mill Campground provides a primitive camping experience, focusing on essential facilities to support a wilderness stay.

• Tent-Only Campsites: The campground has 21 designated campsites, all of which are strictly for tents. No RVs or trailers are permitted due to road restrictions. One site is designated as accessible.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Fire Rings with Grills: Individual fire rings with grills are provided at each site, allowing for campfires and cooking (always check for current fire restrictions, which are common in Sequoia National Park).
• Bear Boxes / Food Storage Lockers: Critically, each site includes a metal food-storage box (bear-proof). Due to active bear populations in the Mineral King area, all food, trash, and any scented items must be stored in these lockers when not in immediate use.
• Vault Toilets: The campground has pit/vault toilets available for campers. There are no flush toilets or showers at the campground itself.
• Potable Water: Potable (drinkable) water is available seasonally at the campground. However, it's always advisable to carry extra water or be prepared to treat water from the nearby East Fork of the Kaweah River.
• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups at any of the campsites, reinforcing the primitive nature of the experience.
• Limited Services Nearby: Silver City Mountain Resort, located 1.7 miles (3 km) east, offers limited services including a restaurant, gift shop, and pay showers. More extensive services are 23 miles (37 km) away in Three Rivers.
• No Reservations: Atwell Mill Campground generally operates on a first-come, first-served basis. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a site.

• Giant Sequoia Grove Setting: The campground is situated in a once-logged giant sequoia grove, providing a unique opportunity to camp among these magnificent, ancient trees and appreciate their immense scale. The air is often described as moist and fragrant.
• Secluded and Quiet Atmosphere: Due to the challenging access and its tent-only nature, Atwell Mill is typically a quiet campground, offering a genuine sense of seclusion and tranquility away from the more crowded areas of the park.
• Gateway to Mineral King Wilderness: The campground serves as a prime staging point for strenuous day hikes and multi-day backpacking trips into the high-alpine Mineral King wilderness. Trails like the Atwell-Hockett Trail begin directly from the campground, leading to stunning alpine lakes (e.g., Monarch, Crystal, Franklin, Columbine Lakes) and mountain passes.
• East Fork Kaweah River Proximity: Located along the East Fork of the Kaweah River, campers have access to the river's sounds and beauty, and potentially opportunities for stream-side exploration.
• Abundant Wildlife: The Mineral King area is rich in wildlife, including black bears, marmots, mule deer, and various bird species. The presence of bears necessitates strict adherence to food storage regulations.
• Unique Road Adventure: The journey on Mineral King Road itself is an experience. While challenging, it offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment for those who navigate it, adding to the overall adventure.
• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Away from significant light pollution, the high elevation of Atwell Mill provides excellent conditions for stargazing and astrophotography.
• Historical Significance: The site was once an active mill, providing a historical context to the giant sequoia grove and the area's past.

Address: Mineral King Rd, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA (within Sequoia National Park)

Phone: (877) 444-6777 (This is the National Recreation Reservation Service, which handles reservations for many federal campgrounds. However, Atwell Mill is primarily first-come, first-served, so this number may be for general park inquiries or other reservable campgrounds.)

Mobile Phone: +1 877-444-6777 (Same as above)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Atwell Mill Campground, including current road conditions, opening/closing dates, and specific rules, it is best to contact Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks directly. The main park information line is generally 559-565-3341, or visit the official National Park Service website for Sequoia & Kings Canyon. The Mineral King Ranger Station, located further up Mineral King Road, can also provide local information.

For Californians, Atwell Mill Campground is a true testament to the rugged beauty and untouched wilderness of Sequoia National Park. It caters specifically to local adventurers who are not deterred by a challenging drive and prefer a more primitive, secluded camping experience over crowded, amenity-rich sites. Its "tent-only" nature and the infamous Mineral King Road actively filter out those unprepared for true wilderness.

This campground offers a profound opportunity to reconnect with nature, to hike challenging trails leading to pristine alpine lakes, and to sleep under giant sequoias, far from the distractions of city life. The presence of bear boxes and potable water ensures a safe and comfortable base for exploration. For the local Californian seeking an authentic and challenging escape into the heart of the Sierra Nevada, Atwell Mill Campground provides an unparalleled chance to find peace, solitude, and adventure amidst some of the state's most magnificent natural wonders, making it a highly valued and rewarding destination for the intrepid spirit.

Atwell Mill Campground

Mineral King Rd, Three Rivers, CA 93271, USA