Gary and Brigitte Gibson, seasoned travelers who thrive on adventure, were instantly captivated by Alaskan Campers during their search for a new truck camper. In a restoration company’s showroom near their San Diego home, Gary spotted a 7-footer that struck a familiar chord. Reminiscent of his time on a Hans Christian sailboat, the camper’s warm, traditional interior and meticulous craftsmanship evoked memories of the comfortable, teak-lined living spaces at sea. The Gibsons were particularly impressed with the Alaskan’s smart design features, such as expandable top storage and a thoughtful layout that offers comfort and convenience—like adjusting the heater without leaving bed. Ultimately, they purchased their camper from PopTop Overland down in San Diego, where John and Zack at their shop helped install the camper and customize their setup and wiring to meet the Gibsons’ exact needs.
In June 2024, they mounted their new 7 Ft. Alaskan on a sturdy Ford F350 Short Bed with an extended cab. Though it might have seemed like overkill, Gary preferred the added power for navigating mountainous terrain. Gary, ever the innovator, upgraded the camper’s electrical system to a 230-amp powered lithium battery with a 2000w inverter and added portable, fold-out solar cells enhance the camper’s energy flexibility, allowing them to harness solar energy in any environment, whether hot or cold.
During a visit to the Alaskan Camper shop in Winlock, Washington, Gary shared his customizations and upgrades while we showed him around the shop and discussed new floor plans and features. He expressed concerns about the bed’s orientation (north/south), feedback we’ve heard before, prompting us to think about re-positioning the bed for easier nighttime access in future floor plans. We’re excited to see the further upgrades he has planned since he picked up additional cabinet and ceiling materials to continue personalizing their camper back home.
Gary and Brigitte didn’t waste any time putting their new Alaskan Camper to the test, setting off on several trips that truly embody their spontaneous and rugged style. One of their first treks took them to the local mountains near Julian, California—a location they chose on a whim without reservations. Here, they embraced the true spirit of adventure, staying initially at a campground before venturing off into more secluded spots. Guided by tips from friendly rangers, they navigated several rugged, cliff-defying roads leading to pristine BLM land. Atop this remote escape, the landscape leveled out, providing the perfect, pristine haven for their stay. Gary was pleased to report that the camper performed flawlessly, managing high winds and campground noise with remarkable ease.
Their next adventure unfolded in the Sequoia National Forest (our featured destination today), where they climbed a rugged 30-mile dirt road from the desert floor to higher elevations. This journey unveiled a secluded spot near Kennedy Meadows—an off-grid village located on the Pacific Crest Trail, about 700 miles from the trail’s southern ending. Another BLM spot served as a hidden gem they would have never found without local insight.
On a subsequent trip to Arizona, their Alaskan Camper turned into the highlight among their group of friends. What began as a casual gathering evolved into an impromptu showcase, with the couple conducting five different walk-throughs of their camper. Folks were especially impressed by its spaciousness, meticulous craftsmanship, and the expansive windows, which Gary revealed by raising the camper’s roof for each tour.
Using Gary and Brigitte as inspiration, let’s explore some spots in and around Sequoia National Forest. The Sequoia National Forest spans over 1.2 million acres in California and is divided into two non-contiguous areas, separated by Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks. It’s organized into three ranger districts: Hume Lake, Kern River, and Western Divide. Follow those links from the Forest Service for detailed information, dispersed camping spots, and more activity ideas than we could ever cram into this article.
Hume Lake, perched at 5,200 feet and spanning about 87 acres, was created in 1908 and lies behind the world’s first concrete reinforced multiple arch dam. Initially serving the logging industry, Hume Lake has transitioned to a beloved recreational site, easily accessible via Forest Service Road 30 from California Route 180, approximately 50 miles east of Fresno. The Hume Lake Campground draws visitors with fishing, canoeing, hiking, biking, and swimming. For those seeking quieter spots, head south down Ten Mile Road at the lake’s southern end. Here, a variety of dirt trails like Forest Routes 13S05, 13S09, and 13S33 branch off for easy dispersed camping not far from the main drag. However, be cautious as winter approaches, since these roads can become impassable, even for large vehicles.
Kern River is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts with options for rafting, hiking, and easy camping. A prime location is Black Gulch South Campground on the Lower Kern River. This site, the most accessible for those coming from the south, attracts many visitors from nearby Bakersfield. Although it lacks a water source, it compensates with vault toilets and trash bins during its open season from May through September. Key nearby attractions include Miracle Hot Springs and the Freeway Ridge 4WD trail—so the crowds can get pretty crazy at times. For those seeking quieter areas, Chico Flat further upriver is recommended.
Chico Flat Dispersed Campground offers year-round camping with strict regulations to protect the river’s ecosystem, requiring campers to stay at least 350 feet from the river. Near Lake Isabella, this site offers tranquility and basic amenities like trash service and portable toilets.
Ant Canyon Campground, also open year-round, sits along a scenic bend of the Kern River. Despite its popularity, it provides a wonderful camping experience with basic summer facilities. The tight parking and roadways make it challenging for large rigs or trailers, making it perfect for smaller setups like an Alaskan Camper. For those seeking solitude, heading south along Kern River from Ant Canyon on Mountain HWY 99 reveals plenty of secluded camping spots.
We can’t talk about the Sequoia National Forest without mentioning the famous giant Sequoia groves that have made this area so famous. Traversing the scenic ridges of the Southern Sierra, the Great Western Divide Highway offers more than just a drive; it’s a gateway to the majestic wilderness of Sequoia National Forest. Located 33 miles north of Kernville near Johnsondale, this highway skirts the dramatic crest that separates the Kern and Tule River watersheds. Over 15 miles, travelers can access numerous giant sequoia groves, fire lookouts, and pristine fishing streams. Starting from Quaking Aspen Campground and ending at the junction with M50, the highway provides seasonal access to a variety of recreational hot spots, including Dome Rock, Nobe Young Falls, and Needles Point Lookout. Although the approach to Dome Rock involves a short drive on an unmarked dirt road—requiring a bit of navigation savvy—the destination offers unforgettable vistas. Be prepared for a lack of services and safety features; this natural lookout demands caution but rewards it with unspoiled beauty. This highway not only connects visitors with these hidden gems but also serves as a spectacular route for snow play, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing in winter when closed to passenger vehicles.
A BIG thanks to Gary and Brigitte Gibson for their insights and taking the time to talk with us. Their tales and sharp eye for the little things remind us that sometimes, it’s the details in our journeys that make the biggest impact. Here’s to more roads traveled and stories shared—and thanks again for the demonstrations you held for your friends! We probably owe you a couple of T-shirts, huh?