French Gulch

If you and your family or friends are looking for a Fido-friendly group getaway in California’s Sequoia National Forest, French Gulch might just be the pawfect spot for you guys to pitch your tents! The campground has one group campsite that can accommodate up to 100 guests, making this a grrr-eat choice for a family reunion where four-legged family members are included. The area surrounding the campground is fairly scenic -- you and your pooch will be staying just three miles from the shores of the calm, serene Lake Isabella. 

You’ll have to sacrifice some of your creature comforts, though, as the sites don’t have any electricity, water hookups, or shower stations. Be aware that some of the sites aren’t shaded, so you might have to fight for your spot! French Gulch also has a relatively large picnic area, so there’s a place to sit if you and your friends and fam just want to catch up. Since French Gulch just has the one site, it’s a good idea to book early to make sure you get your spot.

You might be thinking that the fees at French Gulch are a little steep for a campground with such limited facilities, but the area is a furrific base camp to explore the rest of what this part of the national forest has to offer. Lake Isabella is a popular swimming spot, but your pupper will need to stay on leash at all times. The lake is occasionally infested with a toxic sort of algae, so look up conditions before you go to make sure it’s safe for you and your doggo to take a dip! Hound-dog hikers will be pleased to know that the Trail of A Hundred Giants, a redwood-lined route that’s one of the most popular in the whole forest, is in driving distance, and the nearby Kern Valley has plenty of other routes for you two to sniff and explore!

Cellular coverage in the area varies from network to network, so check with your provider before you leave if you need to be constantly contactable. Campfires are permitted, but only within designated rings, and regulations can change with the weather. There’s no drinking water at French Gulch, so bring your own or bring a filter. Remember to bring waste bags for your canine companion, and have a pawesome time!