Glen Camp Reservation wilderness permit area in Point Reyes National Seashore - backcountry hiking destination
ReservationOvernightModerate Demand

Glen Camp Reservation

Point Reyes National Seashore

Sheltered inland forest camping in a tranquil valley setting.

“Experience Glen Camp in Point Reyes.”

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Be notified instantly when Glen Camp permits become available.

Demand
Moderate
6/10
Method
Reservation
Cost
$20/night
Booking Method
First-Come, First-Served

Glen Camp Quick Facts

Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodReservation
Demand LevelModerate6/10
Cost$20/night
Max Group Size6 people

Key Information

Permit Details

TypeOvernight
Booking MethodReservation
Demand Level6/10
LocationCA

What to Expect

Best Time to Visit

Year-round. The sheltered location makes Glen Camp a good option during stormy weather when coastal camps are exposed.

How to Get This Permit

1

Create a Recreation.gov account

Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.

2

Know the release schedule

Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.

3

Be ready when permits drop

Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.

4

Monitor for cancellations

If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.

Apply at Recreation.gov

When to Go

Peak: Summer monthsShoulder: Spring and Fall

Conditions

Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.

Crowd Level

Moderate

Advantages

  • +Longest days
  • +Warmest temperatures
  • +Reliable trail conditions

Challenges

  • !Peak demand for permits
  • !Book accommodations early
  • !Weather varies

Difficulty Assessment

Physical Demand1/5

Fitness and endurance required

Technical Skill1/5

Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills

Exposure Risk1/5

Steep dropoffs and fall potential

Navigation1/5

Route finding and trail clarity

Commitment3/5

Difficulty of bailing out mid-route

Best For

Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.

Recommended Experience

Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.

About This Permit

Glen Camp is the most sheltered of Point Reyes' backcountry camps, set in a quiet valley surrounded by Douglas fir and Bishop pine. While it lacks ocean views, it offers protection from coastal wind and fog.

The camp features 12 individual sites with picnic tables, food storage lockers, pit toilets, and potable water.

The Experience

Why It Matters

Glen Camp in Point Reyes offers a wilderness experience protected by the permit system. Quotas help maintain trail conditions and ensure visitors can enjoy the natural setting without overcrowding.

Rules & Regulations

  • •Reservation required via Recreation.gov
  • •Pick up permit at Bear Valley Visitor Center
  • •No dogs allowed
  • •Store all food in provided lockers

Safety & Planning

🚨

Emergency Info

Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Glen Camp.

Want to access emergency info offline?Get the app →
🐻

Food Storage

Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.

Want to check food storage requirements?Get the app →

Glen Camp FAQ

How do I get a Glen Camp permit?

Glen Camp permits are obtained through a reservation system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.

When is the best time to visit Glen Camp?

Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.

How competitive is the Glen Camp permit?

This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.

What if I can't get a Glen Camp permit?

Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.

Photography Guide

Golden Hour

Golden hour at Glen Camp offers the best photography conditions with warm, directional light.

Best Light

Early morning typically provides the clearest conditions and best light quality.

Beat the Crowds

Weekdays and early mornings see fewer visitors for cleaner compositions.

Classic Shots

  • 📍Classic view of Glen Camp
  • 📍Point Reyes scenery
  • 📍Trail or route documentation

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