Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks News
Showing the last 10 news releases. Click here to visit nps.gov's Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks - News section for more.
Residential firewood permits available in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
November 13, 2025 | 3:45 pm
Surplus wood in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks is now available to the public by permit. Residential firewood permits are free and must be obtained before wood can be removed. There is a limit of six cords per family per year. Firewood is available on a first-come first-served basis until the supply is gone. This wood is a result of tree mortality, and were trees deemed to be a potential hazard to visitors or property within the parks.
Tourism to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks contributes $230 million to local economy
September 29, 2025 | 5:26 pm
A new National Park Service report shows that a record 2,008,962 visitors to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in 2024 spent $192.5 million in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $230.9 million.
Planning for a Busy Labor Day Weekend, Construction Projects to Follow at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
August 28, 2025 | 12:00 am
Labor Day Weekend marks the end of the summer season and is historically a busy time at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For an enjoyable visit, it is important for visitors to plan ahead and be prepared for congestion in the parks.
Rangers remove illegal marijuana cultivation site from Sequoia National Park
August 21, 2025 | 12:17 pm
National Park Service law enforcement rangers, in cooperation with special agents from the Bureau of Land Management, removed an illegal marijuana cultivation site in Sequoia National Park last week.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks Wilderness Commercial Use Authorization Application Window Begins August 1
July 31, 2025 | 3:29 pm
Beginning Friday, August 1, businesses can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) for select activities within designated wilderness areas of the parks, including stock and non-stock services, such as guided hiking, backpacking, fishing, and more.
Body of Memorial Day weekend drowning located in Sequoia National Park
July 29, 2025 | 9:26 am
The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) Swiftwater Dive Rescue Team (SDRT), in coordination with the National Park Service (NPS), located the body of 26-year-old Jomarie Calasanz of La Puente, California on July 24. Tulare County Coroner’s Office confirmed her identity on July 28. She had been missing since May 25.
Missing hiker found deceased in Sequoia National Park
July 14, 2025 | 9:07 am
A local missing hiker was found deceased below Sawtooth Peak in Sequoia National Park on Sunday, July 13. 36-year-old Drew Hall from Visalia was described as fit and active but was hiking in very rugged terrain. He had separated from his group earlier in the day on Saturday, with plans to meet up later. After not returning within the expected timeframe, family members reported him missing to Sequoia National Park that evening.
Plan ahead for busy 2025 Fourth of July weekend
July 1, 2025 | 12:46 pm
Fourth of July weekend is anticipated to be another busy weekend at the parks. During the recent four-day Memorial Day weekend, we welcomed over 21,000 visitors. Trip planning is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Below are some considerations to help you prepare for your visit and share space responsibly with fellow park-goers.
Ignitions Complete on 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn
June 24, 2025 | 8:05 pm
KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 24, 2025 – As of this afternoon, ignitions are complete on the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn. In all, approximately 126-acres were completed in the area of the entrance of Kings Canyon National Park. Completing this prescribed burn increases the historic Grant Grove’s chance of being defendable during an unwanted wildfire as was demonstrated during both the 2015 Rough Fire and the 2021 KNP Complex Fire.
Ignitions Started on 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn in Kings Canyon National Park
June 23, 2025 | 10:04 am
KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Calif. June 23, 2025 – Following a successful test burn and with concurrence from fire management staff and parks’ leadership, the 2025 Big Stump East Prescribed Burn has started. Ignitions are planned to continue each day through June 24, 2025. The General Grant Tree remains available to visit as normal.