Four Rivers LotteryLottery
Accept and confirm awarded launch dates by March 15 or they are revoked. Trip window: 2026-05-28 → 2026-09-03.
Opens: Dec 1, 2025Apply by: Jan 31, 2026Results: Feb 14, 2026Confirm by: Mar 15, 2026
U.S. Forest Service · ID
Middle Fork of the Salmon
Four Rivers Lottery launch permits for multi-day float trips on the Middle Fork of the Salmon during the summer control season.
Permit requiredovernightMulti-day whitewater100 mi
Access requirement
2 ways to get a permit
Post-lottery cancellation releasesTimed release
After the March 16 release, later cancellations appear randomly within 24 hours. Check Recreation.gov for live availability. Trip window: 2026-05-28 → 2026-09-03.
Opens: Mar 16, 2026
Permit rules
QuotaControl-season launch dates are allocated through the annual Four Rivers Lottery; cancelled and unconfirmed dates are re-released first-come on Recreation.gov.
GroupGroup size limits apply per launch; the permit covers one trip leader and their party.
Fees$6 lottery application fee; recreation fees apply when a launch date is confirmed.
TransferPermits are non-transferable; the permit holder must be on the trip.
SafetyClass III-IV whitewater, remote wilderness, and early-season high water demand experienced boaters.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
BOUNDARY CREEK CAMPGROUND
Reservable + first-come
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
ELK CREEK CABINS
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Banner Creek Campground
Not reservable online
Availability: Unavailable
Thatcher Campground
Not reservable online
Availability: Unavailable