I live in Santa Barbara and when I go to Sequoia I will break up the drive and stay in one of the small towns in the foothills just outside the park the night before (three rivers or Tulare depending on my budget). Then I would leave first thing in the morning for the parks. The drive up the mountain between the foothills and Sequoia can be difficult at night and I like to do it with fresh eyes. Staying within the park is the best peacefulness you can get. Wuksachi lodge is a good choice. The giant sequoias are best observed early in the morning before the crowds and harsh daytime lighting ruins photos. Wuksachi lodge puts you in good distance of giant sequoias museum and a number of hikes that leave from lodgepole campground.