Hike Giant Sequoias & Enjoy Lake Success in Porterville
Tips on renting in Porterville
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Welcome to Porterville, California, a charming city set at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills, where families can indulge in a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and local attractions. With a population of about 62,000, Porterville is celebrated for its warm hospitality and inviting, family-friendly ambiance.
For those who love the outdoors, Success Lake is an essential stop. This expansive 2,450-acre reservoir is perfect for boating, fishing, and leisurely picnics along its picturesque shores. The Tule Recreation Area features camping facilities, making it easy for families to enjoy an immersive nature experience.
In town, the Porterville Museum captivates visitors with interactive exhibits that showcase the city’s rich heritage, while the Rotary Children’s Playground offers a secure and entertaining space for children. Explore the Historic Downtown Porterville Walking Tour to discover landmarks such as the old courthouse and the historic jail, and share moments of discovery and wonder with your family in this welcoming community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Porterville has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the Trail of 100 Giants in Porterville, embark on a scenic drive along Western Divide Highway (M 107), where the trailhead is conveniently located across from Redwood Meadow Campground. This easy, 1.3-mile paved trail, suitable for all ages, winds through the stunning Long Meadow Grove, home to giant sequoias up to 1,500 years old. Be prepared for a $12 per vehicle fee, and note that the trail is accessible only during summer months due to winter snow closures from November to April.
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For a seamless and enjoyable boating experience at Success Lake in Porterville, head to the Success Lake Tule and Rocky Hill Rec Areas. Here, you’ll find well-maintained launch ramps and a marina that offers a full range of services, including boat rentals, fuel sales, and amenities like fish cleaning stations and restrooms. With 300 parking spaces for cars with trailers and three boarding floats, this facility is perfectly equipped to handle your boating needs.
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For those seeking to enjoy motorboating near Porterville, California, Success Lake is a prime destination. Here, you can access the water through facilities like Success Lake Marina and the Success Lake Tule and Rocky Hill Rec Areas, both of which offer public launch access. The marina, open from 9 am to 5 pm during the week and 8 am to 6 pm on weekends, provides various rental options, including patio boats and fishing boats, making it an ideal spot for a day on the water.
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For scenic hiking near Porterville, California, the Trail of 100 Giants is a must-visit, offering a 1.44-mile stroll through awe-inspiring sequoia groves in the Sequoia National Forest, with a $5 day parking fee and restrooms available. Another highlight is the Big Sycamore Trail, a short, well-shaded mile-long hike along the banks of Lake Success, perfect for families and beginners. The Stagg Tree Trail, also in the Sequoia National Forest, provides a more challenging but equally stunning experience, best enjoyed from May to October when the trails are open.
