Jennie Lakes & Monarch Wilderness -
Sequoia National Forest
Before You Go
When you visit these or any wilderness areas, there are a few things you should know before you go.
When entering the Jennie Lakes or Monarch Wilderness, you are entering black bear territory. Because of this it is important to be bear aware.
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If you see a bear, make your presence known by talking calmly, and helping the bear realize you are human.
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Stay calm and remember that the bears here are generally very timid and more scared of you than you are of them. Usually a shout or clap of the hands will scare them away.
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Store your food and garbage properly by using a bear canister or rope hang. By doing this, you are keeping yourself and the bears safe.
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Bears learn quickly and will return to areas where they have found food previously. Not only can this be dangerous for people, but it can lead to "problem" bears being put down.
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"By eating human food, bears can lose their preference for natural food sources and their fear of humans. Over time, these bears may begin approaching people in search of food. They can become aggressive, unpredictable, and dangerous. Bears looking for human food and garbage can damage property and injure people. These bears pose a risk to public safety and are often euthanized as a result."
So how do I go to the bathroom in the wilderness, you ask?!
Click here for a pamphlet made by the SQF wilderness ranger.
Always bury human waste and toilet paper 6-8" underground!
In the busy summer season, camping within 100' of Jennie or Weaver Lake is prohibited.
Always camp 100-200' away from water sources! Click here to see the current Forest Order.
Ten Essentials when visiting
any wilderness area:
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Navigation (map & compass)
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Sun protection (sunglasses & sunscreen)
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Insulation (extra clothing, proper degree sleeping bag)
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Illumination (headlamp/ flashlight/extra batteries)
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First-aid supplies
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Fire (waterproof matches/ lighter)
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Repair kit and tools
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Nutrition (extra food)
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Hydration (extra water/water filter)
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Emergency shelter (tent/rain fly/garbage bag)
There is currently no fee or permit required to enter or camp in Sequoia National Forest wilderness areas. However, there is an entrance fee at the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park entrance stations.
Please register your group in the register at the trailhead from which you enter the wilderness. This information is used in case of an emergency and to track visitation to these areas.
If you decide to enter the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks from any of our wilderness areas, you must obtain a backcountry camping permit from the Park Service - SEKI wilderness.
Be sure to check if fire restrictions are in effect! To get a free fire permit before your trip click here.
Please minimize campfire impacts by following Leave No Trace.
We've had some problems with abandoned campfires. Make only small fires and do not build new fire rings. Firewood should not be larger than your forearm and bark is not firewood. When you leave, make absolutely sure your fire is out. Drown it in water, stir it up and pour more water. If there is heat, there is fire. Please be careful!
"Camp in areas where wood is abundant if building a fire. Choose not to have a fire in areas where there is little wood, at higher elevation, in heavily used areas, or in desert settings. A true Leave No Trace fire shows no evidence of having been constructed."