Centrally located within the State of California, Tulare County is situated in a delightful and geographically diverse region. The County includes an area of 4,863 square miles. Mountain peaks of the Sierra Nevada range rise to more than 14,000 feet in its Eastern half. Meanwhile, the extensively cultivated and very fertile valley floor in the Western half, has allowed Tulare County to become the top producer of agricultural commodities in the United States. In addition to substantial packing/shipping operations, light and medium manufacturing plants are increasing in number and are becoming an important factor in the County’s total economic picture. The County has a growing population of 479,112. The Eastern half of the County is comprised primarily of public lands within the Sequoia National Park, National Forest, and the Mineral King, Golden Trout, and Domeland Wilderness areas. Opportunities for all-season outdoor recreation include hiking, water and snow skiing, fishing, and boating.