Originally Posted by
abmj-jr
If you will be in Bakersfield, it will be a MUCH shorter drive to Sequoia National Park than Yosemite. Take your group to see the Giant Sequoia trees instead of the cliffs of Yosemite. The famous waterfalls will be very disappointing in November anyway. Save 3+ hours of driving round trip and see part of our state that doesn't change much by seasons. Sequoia is a little higher in elevation but also has some nice sites that don't require much walking.
I've spent in Yosemite in every season and I disagree about the waterfalls. Seeing them in ice and snow is every bit as awesome as in full spate. Plus, in November they would be unlikely to have deal with the Merced flooding their campground (been there...).
The OP mentioned traveling in mid November. By early November Sequoia may have snow and cars are required to carry chains:
https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvis...er_driving.htm
Is the OP prepared to put chains on a rental vehicle?
The OP also mentioned being a party of 9. The roads into Sequoia are not fun with a large vehicle and there are size limits. Don't know what they plan to drive, but that's something to consider.
In winter weather, getting around Sequoia, especially for a person with mobility problems, is going to be much harder than Yosemite. Ever since the park restoration activities started (maybe 18 years ago?) it's become increasing more challenging to get near to the most special features in Sequoia and King's Canyon without some serious walking. Plus the altitude is 6,600 to 7,200 ft versus 4,000 ft in Yosemite Valley - more challenging for the person with oxygen concentrator.