Camping this summer?

I tried to search through some of the posts, but I'm trying to plan summer reservations for August in the Valley (e.g. North Pines), like so many other people. In a few days I should be gunning for the campground reservations, but the last series was cancelled, so I assume this one is too. I have visitors coming who are tremendous hikers even though they are in their 70s and have never been to California. We really wanted to go to Yosemite, but if that fails -- what is a plan B? We are starting from Santa Cruz. (And I know why everything is messed up, but let's not go there.) With no entrance reservations it's bound to be insane anyway and perhaps not that pleasant a year anyway. I've never been to Kings or Sequoia. I'd like them to experience some of the epicness of California. (I also know August is fire season.) I was thinking Point Lobos for sure and then I stall out.