Free permit for wilderness camping.
Plan your Crater Lake National Park trip here, then get your permit from the agency.
Plan your trip
How to get Crater Lake Backcountry
Pick up this free permit in person at the ranger station beside the Steel Visitor Center, the day before your trip or the day of.
Official permit pagePlanning another trip? See the permits we alert on.
How to get a Crater Lake Backcountry permit
- Type
- Overnight
- Location
- OR
How this permit is issued
Official permit page →Step 1: Create a National Park Service account
Sign up at National Park 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.
More on Crater Lake Backcountry: Live availability activity
How much a Crater Lake Backcountry permit costs
Crater Lake Backcountry permit fee: Free.
When to hike Crater Lake Backcountry
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
62°
43°
Wed
66°
42°
Thu
69°
44°
Fri
72°
49°
Sat
75°
50°
Sun
77°
52°
Mon
71°
50°
Crater Lake Backcountry rules, gear and safety
Safety & planning
Emergency Info
Emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for Crater Lake Backcountry.
Food Storage
Bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations for this permit.
Gear Checklist: Required and recommended gear for Crater Lake Backcountry · Shuttle Services: Trailhead transportation options · Guide Services: Experienced wilderness guides
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Crater Lake Backcountry FAQ
How do I get a Crater Lake Backcountry permit?
Crater Lake Backcountry is issued directly by the agency. Pick up this free permit in person at the ranger station beside the Steel Visitor Center, the day before your trip or the day of. Bring backup dates and check their page for the current process.
When is the best time to visit Crater Lake Backcountry?
Season dates are on the agency's page. Weekdays have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Crater Lake Backcountry permit?
This permit has a demand score of 4/10, making it relatively accessible.
What if I can't get a Crater Lake Backcountry permit?
The agency awards this permit directly. Bring backup dates and check the official page for the current process and any closures.
Crater Lake Backcountry trail conditions and trip reports
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
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Write the First ReportAlternatives to a Crater Lake Backcountry permit
Where to stay near Crater Lake Backcountry
- Broken Arrow CampgroundUmpqua National Forest
- South Shore Pavilion campgroundUmpqua National Forest
- Diamond Lake campgroundUmpqua National Forest
- All Oregon campgrounds
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