Desolation Wilderness Permit — Lake of the Woods
Desolation Wilderness · California
Overnight permit for the Lake of the Woods zone in Desolation Wilderness, Lake Tahoe area.
Get an alert when Lake of the Woods opens on your dates.
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Lake of the Woods were gone within 10 minutes.
Lake of the Woods reservation dates
- max group size
- 12people
How to get a Lake of the Woods permit
As of September 2026, Lake of the Woods in Desolation Wilderness, California requires a permit issued via reservation. Lake of the Woods rates 6/10 on PermitSnag's demand index. Cancelled Lake of the Woods permits are re-released on the booking system, and PermitSnag alerts you the moment one opens.
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- CA
Step 1: Create a U.S. Forest Service account
Sign up at U.S. Forest Service if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
Step 2: Know the release schedule
Permits release on a rolling basis. Check the release time for your dates.
Step 3: Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
Step 4: Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
More on Lake of the Woods: Live availability activityWhen Lake of the Woods permits open up
When to hike Lake of the Woods
Lake of the Woods rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Lake of the Woods.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Lake of the Woods · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Lake of the Woods FAQ
How do I get a Lake of the Woods permit?
PermitSnag alerts you the moment a Lake of the Woods cancellation opens, so you can book it before anyone else. Lake of the Woods permits use a reservation system.
When is the best time to visit Lake of the Woods?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Lake of the Woods permit?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a Lake of the Woods permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $19 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
Lake of the Woods trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
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Trip Reports
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