Backcountry Camping Permits
All campers not staying in the park's developed campgrounds must obtain a backcountry permit. The only exception is through-hikers on the Pacific Crest Trail, who may instead sign the trail register as they enter the park.
Backcountry permits are free of charge, but must be obtained in person, during business hours, from one of two following locations at Park Headquarters. They are not available over the phone, or more than 1 day in advance.
Canfield Ranger Station
- June-September: Monday-Sunday, 8 am to 5 pm
- October-May: Thursday-Sunday, 8 am to 4 pm
Steel Visitor Center
- mid-April to mid-November: open daily, 9 am to 5 pm
- mid-November to mid-April: open daily, 10 am to 4 pm
Backcountry Regulations
Click here to view the park's
Backcountry Regulations Checklist.
Group Size
Groups larger than 8 people, who wish to travel together, must obtain a
special use permit at least four to six weeks in advance.
Bicycles, Pets, Horses, and ATVs
Bicycles, pets, and horses are allowed in the park, but only on a few, specific trails. For more information, visit our pages on
bicycling,
pets, and
stock use. ATVs and other motorized vehicles are not allowed on the park’s trails, or off-trail.
Areas Closed to Camping in Summer
To ensure the enjoyment of all visitors, protect fragile resources, and ensure visitor safety, some areas of the park are closed to camping. Click here to download the
Camping Restriction Map.
Summer camping is prohibited:
- Inside the 33-mile Rim Drive that encircles Crater Lake.There is no camping in the summer with a lake view.
- Along Any of the park's main day-hiking trails.
- Within 1 mile of any developed area or park road open to vehicular traffic, except in designated campgrounds.
- Within ¼ mile of Boundary springs, Sphagnum bog, or Thousand Springs.
