🏘 Gateway Town
Independence
Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks
Last Updated: July 2026
Distance
36 km (22 miles) east
Population
593
Restaurants
1
Lodging Options
2
Overview
About This Town
Independence is a quiet, unincorporated mountain town and Inyo County seat located 36 km east of Sequoia National Park. With a year-round population around 600, it serves as an affordable base for park-bound travelers seeking budget lodging and supplies before the high country. The town retains a working-community feel rather than tourist polish.
The Vibe
Working mountain town, not a tourist resort. You need a car. Quiet year-round. Stay here to save on lodging; don't expect nightlife or scenes.
Stock Up Here
This is your last practical stop before Sequoia (36 km away). Limited shopping; stock groceries and fuel here. Check gas-station hours before arriving.
Late Night Intel
Most kitchens close early in towns this small. The single reported restaurant likely closes by 9pm. Plan dinner before dark. No bars or late-night dining options.
Town at a Glance
Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
593
Distance to Park
36 km (22 miles) east
Highlights
Known For
Inyo County seat and affordable gateway to Sequoia National Park
ℹ️ Data Sources
OpenStreetMap contributors (community-reported details) (checked 2026-07-16) National Park Service — Sequoia National Park fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) Wikipedia + Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA, retrieval-dated) — population, history and identity facts from Wikipedia; practical travel guidance from Wikivoyage; osm_count (checked 2026-07-16) Climate data: Lodgepole, Ca Us, 6,730 ft (NOAA 1991-2020 normals, station USC00045026) YourNPGuide Editorial
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