Campground & Lodging Information

"National Park Service Campground Reservation Service" - Now On-line!*

There are 25,700 campsites in 548 campgrounds found at 77 areas of the System. These campsites can accommodate most every camping style from tent camping and recreational vehicle spaces to more primitive types of camping such as back-country.

Most parks administer their campgrounds on a first come, first served policy. The easiest method to get more specific information is to contact the park directly. A park's homepage has pertinent information to help plan your trip from a number of different search methods. Additionally you can use our SEARCH engine for keyword and concept (theme) searches.

Camping Facts

• Campsite-use fees vary.
• Some parks offer year-round camping while others have specific dates of operation.
• Back-country camping requires a permit.
• Camp only in designated areas.
• Developed area campsites have drinking water, toilets, fire containment devices, tables, refuse containers and limited parking spaces. Generally, utility hookups are not available.
• Gathering of firewood is generally restricted, except in certain areas (check with a Park Ranger). In some parks, the use of campfires may be restricted to protect air quality or due to extreme wild fire danger.
• In parks where bears are present, the Superintendent may designate areas where food must be stored in a specified manner to prevent its loss or to avoid an encounter with a potentially dangerous wild animal.

Trailers/Campers

Maximum lengths for trailers, campers and motorhomes vary from park to park. The average maximum length permitted is 27 ft, but some parks can accommodate up to 40 feet in length. There are no electrical or water hookups at campsites. Some parks may have dump stations. You should check with your favorite parks for their specific maximum lengths so you won't be disappointed when you arrive.

Lodging

In-park lodges are administered by individual concession contracts. Contractors operate individual reservation systems. Check the park homepage for specific lodging information.