Between Fresno And Bakersfield Is A Sequoia Gateway With Idyllic Nature Escapes And Tasty Restaurants

Rich in farmland, orchards, and a history tied to working the land, California's vast Central Valley hides a ton of tiny towns that don't draw the crowds in the same way as Huntington Beach or other endless summer destinations in Southern California. But one traveler's loss is another's gain. Spread out at the foothills of the southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, you'll find Porterville, a Central Valley gem with a settler heritage, easy access to Sequoia National Forest, and just enough to keep visitors busy. 

At first glance, you might think you've stumbled upon another Walmart-centric community off a highway, but you have to dig deeper. With a population of around 63,000 people, Porterville offers a downtown filled with craft beer spots, jewelry shops, thrift stores, and a surprising number of restaurants. Every year, the Iris Festival draws in thousands of visitors with vendors, car shows, and even a taco eating contest. Stop by Zalud House to explore the 1930's rose garden or get a deeper sense of place at the Porterville Historical Museum. 

Porterville is situated in Tulare County, about an hour and 15 minutes south of Fresno and 1 hour north of Bakersfield. Summers can reach almost 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so you'll want to be prepared to sweat or plan your trip during the cooler, overcast winter months. The nearest major airport is Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT), a 1.5-hour drive from Porterville, where you can rent a car to explore the nearby state parks, lakes, and forests. 

Porterville offers an abundance of nature escapes thanks to its location within easy driving distance of California's giant sequoias. For reference, Porterville is about half an hour from Sequoia National Forest and an hour from the Ash Mountain Entrance of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. These protected lands are home to waterfalls, the famous tunnel log, and, of course, giant sequoias. Measuring up to 300 feet tall, these are the largest trees in the world and can be enjoyed via the 1.3-mile Trail of 100 Giants. 

For panoramic views across the Sierra Nevada, climb 350 steps up to Moro Rock or embark on the 23-mile Middle Fork Trail, a backpacking route that also showcases spring wildflowers, manzanita forests, and a secluded sequoia grove. Witness the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree in the world, or visit secret spots in Sequoia National Forest that most tourists miss. Adrenaline junkies can conquer class IV and V rapids along the Kern River, one of the most dangerous rivers in America, while those seeking a road adventure will enjoy cruising along the winding Generals Highway.

Porterville is also only 15 minutes from Lake Success, a 2,450-acre lake surrounded by bare, rolling hills. Here, visitors can rent patio boats for up to 20 people at Lake Success Marina or fish at what Nor Cal Fish Reports calls "one of Central California's most consistent warmwater fisheries." Plan your fishing trip during the spring to see wildflowers cover the surrounding hills. Looking for another Sequoia gateway? Plan a trip to Visalia, a vibrant city with shops and artsy charm.

Overnight guests will find an assortment of roadside motels and a Holiday Inn that's slightly a cut above the rest, with 4.3 stars on Google Maps. However, if you're looking for something a bit cozier, Airbnb is your best bet. For instance, one listing features a three-bedroom home with a hot tub for relaxing post-hike and a backyard fire pit. Alternatively, Tule Campground offers affordable tent and RV camping (including several spots with electricity hookups) steps from the boat launches and fishing spots of Lake Success. 

Porterville's food scene is concentrated around Main Street and features casual, sit-down restaurants. For craft beer, burgers, and other gastropub favorites, stop by The Vault Bar and Grill, which visitors praise for the IPA selection. Mariscos El Malecon is a top choice for Mexican classics and micheladas, earning 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Locals on Reddit's r/Porterville also recommend grabbing a slice at Poor Richards Pizza, while Palace Kitchen and Bar cooks up American comfort food in an upscale, industrial setting. 

After satisfying your hunger, stop for drinks at Mecca, a locally-loved dive bar that first opened in 1937. Porterville is also home to Eagle Mountain Casino, which entertains guests with over 1,500 slots, game tables, concerts, and three restaurants. However, if golf is your game, you'll want to visit River Island Country Club's 18-hole course overlooking the Tule River.