Educational Field Trips

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are one of America's most spectacular natural attractions, and it's an ideal place to bring the kids for an educational trip in California. Whether you're planning a family vacation or organizing a field trip, there's plenty to see, do, and learn when you visit these parks!

Just steps from the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park lodges, you'll find more than 1,200 species of plants ranging from grasses and wildflowers to the majestic colossal sequoia trees that make Sequoia National Park so famous. On your educational trip through the California Sierras, take the kids for a hike to find the state flower - the California poppy - before stopping by the Giant Forest to see some of the oldest and largest trees on the planet. Don't forget to bring a camera - you'll all want to pose for pictures beside the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree in the world, and the General Grant Tree, known as "the Nation's Christmas Tree."

No educational visit to these parks would be complete without a visit to Crystal Cave! Follow lighted pathways through this spectacular underground cavern to see unique formations, listen to the echoes, and learn more about the natural elements that created the cave. Family and school tours are available.

During your educational trip to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, you'll also want to stop by one of the visitor centers. You'll find lots of interesting information, interpretive displays, and fun facts to help you explore the terrain. You can also see videos like "Bears of the Sierra," and get details about the Giant Forest Museum in Sequoia National Park. Plus, learn about the General Grant tree and the canyon that runs through Kings Canyon National Park at the Kings Canyon Visitor Center in Grant Grove Village.

At Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, kids of all ages can also participate in the Junior Ranger Program. They'll earn patches and awards for age-appropriate explorations about ecology and protecting natural resources. You can also plan your field trip to the California Sierras to take advantage of the education programs offered by Sequoia & Kings Canyon Park rangers. Ranger-led education programs in the parks are offered for grades 2-6. Explore the history and geology in the foothills at Hospital Rock, or forest ecology among the giant sequoias in the Grant Grove area. These curriculum-based programs involve hands-on investigations and are taught collaboratively by rangers and classroom teachers.

With so many natural attractions, interesting programs, and fun activities, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a great destination for your next educational trip. Plan your visit today!