Primitive camping usually involves backpacking all of the camping equipment, food, and water that you are going to need into a wilderness area that has no developed campgrounds. As long as campers follows the regulations, such as not camping within 100 yards of a water source or a trailhead, they can camp anywhere in the Sequoia National Forest. The camper must adhere to the creed of packing everything out that he brings in, leaving the wilderness pristine for the next camper to enjoy.
Backpackers can select from six different wilderness areas when planning their trip--Kiavah, Monarch, South Sierra, Dome Land, Jennie Lakes and Golden Trout. Each area offers a different experience and a wide variety of trails. It is recommended that a trail guide be consulted while planning a trip so that the terrain can be matched to the physical abilities of the hiker. Camping in the backcountry requires that the camper rely upon himself should any trouble arise.
You will need a California campfire permit to use a stove, lantern or campfire outside a developed campground or recreation area. A permit can be downloaded from the Sequoia National Forest website (see Resources). It is good from the date downloaded to the end of the year and in any California national forest. The Golden Trout Wilderness is the only area in Sequoia National Forest that requires a wilderness permit for overnight visits. (See Resources.) All of the other designated wilderness areas in the forest can be visited overnight or during the day without a permit, with the only requirement being that the hiker sign the register at the trailhead before starting up the trail.
No vehicles, including bikes, are allowed in the six designated wilderness areas but the camper can still enjoy a primitive camping experience with a vehicle by exploring the many dirt roads and off-road vehicle tracks that crisscross the park. A good map can take you into the forest areas away from the bustling crowds in the campgrounds. (See Resources.)
If the backpacking experience is hindered by weather or made impossible by a lack of time, Sequoia National Forest has more than 50 developed campgrounds of varying size and amenities. Some are free and others charge a fee to camp; some are in close proximity to telephones and groceries, while others require the camper to bring their own water, so the camper has many experiences to choose from. Many of the camp sites are first-come first-served but many also can be reserved in advance. (See Resources.)
