10 Underrated Small Towns Near Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Big trees may steal the spotlight in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, but the small towns that surround them? They’re the real hidden gems.
Scattered like secret waypoints along the Sierra foothills, these towns are where adventure meets authenticity!
So, if you’re craving an escape beyond the usual tourist spots, take the scenic route. Buckle up—your next great detour starts here.
1. Three Rivers
Three Rivers is the kind of place where adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. It’s the last stop before entering Sequoia National Park, making it a favorite among nature lovers. Every moment here feels like a postcard come to life.
Beyond its natural beauty, Three Rivers has a thriving arts scene that gives the town a creative heartbeat.
Local galleries showcase everything from rustic woodwork to dreamy landscape paintings, while the annual Three Rivers Music Festival brings together locals and travelers for a day of live tunes, food trucks, and small-town camaraderie. It’s a place where creativity and wilderness intertwine seamlessly.
2. Lemon Cove
It may be small, but it packs a zesty punch. Originally a citrus-packing town (hence the name), Lemon Cove still carries the scent of oranges and nostalgia.
As you drive through, you’ll be greeted by rolling orchards stretching toward the foothills, especially breathtaking in spring when the blossoms burst into a sea of white and pink.
Citrus is a big thing here, but other than that, a town is rooted in history. The whole town carries that same timeless charm, where friendly locals are more than happy to share stories of the old ranching days.
3. Dunlap
Dunlap is the kind of town that flies under the radar—but those who stumble upon it are in for a treat. Just a short drive from Kings Canyon National Park, this community is surrounded by rolling hills, quiet meadows, and a whole lot of fresh mountain air.
One of Dunlap’s most unexpected highlights is Project Survival’s Cat Haven. It’s a conservation center dedicated to protecting big cats from around the world. Here, you can stand just feet away from leopards, cheetahs, and mountain lions while learning about the vital role they play in the ecosystem.
It’s a fascinating stop that brings a touch of the wild to this peaceful mountain town.
4. Yokuts Valley
In the past it was known as Squaw Valley. Today, we know it as Yokuts Valley! It’s a place where history and nature intertwine.
It’s named in honor of the indigenous Yokuts people who originally inhabited the area. This valley is a serene retreat just beyond the grandeur of Kings Canyon. Unlike the national parks nearby, Yokuts Valley moves at a slower pace, inviting travelers to take in its quiet beauty.
You’ll pass charming family farms, oak-dotted meadows, and rustic roadside fruit stands still operating on the honor system. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a basket of fresh peaches, leave a few dollars in a jar, and continue your journey with a sweet taste of the valley’s generosity.
5. Lindsay
Lindsay is the kind of town that doesn’t try too hard to impress—but once you step into its world of citrus groves and small-town charm, it wins you over effortlessly. This agricultural hub is where the scent of citrus lingers in the air, mingling with warm California sunshine.
Lindsay is home to a few surprises. Something like the Lindsay Museum and Gallery. This cozy spot is part history museum, part art space, and fully delightful.
Expect to find everything from vintage farm tools to an unexpectedly large collection of honeybee-related exhibits—because why not? It’s the kind of quirky, homespun attraction that makes road trips memorable.
6. Woodlake
If you’re looking for a town that blends small-town charm with outdoor adventure, Woodlake is your spot. Woodlake has a deep-rooted cowboy culture that keeps its spirit lively and authentic.
At the heart of the town is Bravo Lake, a hidden gem that locals cherish. The lake’s walking and biking trails make for a peaceful morning stroll, especially in spring when wildflowers burst into colors along the water’s edge.
Birdwatchers, bring your binoculars—you might spot egrets gliding over the reeds or hawks circling above.
7. Springville
It’s time to slow things down! Springville is the kind of mountain town that does exactly that! Breathe in the crisp pine-scented air and stay a little longer than you planned.
Just a short drive away, you’ll find the Trail of 100 Giants, home to some of the most awe-inspiring sequoias outside the national parks. Walking among these ancient trees is a humbling experience, a reminder of just how small we are in the grand scheme of things.
And for those who prefer a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, nearby mountain trails lead to hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks that are well worth the trek.
8. Hume
Hume feels like a well-kept secret, tucked away in the heart of the Sierra Nevada. Best known for Hume Lake, this small but stunning retreat is the definition of peaceful.
Originally built as a logging pond, the lake has since transformed into a haven for kayakers, fishermen, and anyone looking to escape the noise of modern life.
The lake’s glassy waters reflect the sky so perfectly that on a clear morning, it’s hard to tell where the horizon ends and the reflection begins. Whether you’re casting a fishing line or simply soaking in the view from the shore, the serenity here is unmatched.
9. Badger
Badger is tiny. It’s so tiny that if you blink while driving through, you might miss it—but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in rugged beauty.
This little town is surrounded by rolling meadows, oak trees, and open skies that stretch for miles. It’s the kind of place where solitude isn’t just an option—it’s a guarantee.
For those looking to truly unplug, Seven Circles Retreat offers a quiet escape where nature takes center stage. No crowds, no traffic, just wide-open landscapes and the occasional sound of a hawk soaring overhead.
10. Miramonte
When you’re holding a map, Miramonte would be a place you might accidentally overlook. But, once you find yourself here, you won’t want to leave. It’s where rolling vineyards meet forests, offering a little bit of everything for those who love the outdoors.
One of the best ways to experience Miramonte is on horseback. Ridge Creek Ranch offers the perfect excuse to do just that. With miles of scenic trails winding through the hills, you’ll get a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking views in the area.
And if horseback riding isn’t your thing, simply sitting back with a glass of local wine and taking in the scenery is just as rewarding.