2026 monthly backcountry camping releaseTimed release
Permits for a given month are released on the first day of the preceding month at 7:00 AM Pacific Time. Trip window: 2026-05-01 → 2026-11-30.
U.S. Forest Service · WA
Mount Margaret Backcountry
Overnight backcountry camping at eight reservation-only sites in the Mount St. Helens blast zone, with ridges and lakes overlooking the crater and Spirit Lake.
Permit requiredovernightStrenuous
Access requirement
How to get a permit
Permit rules
QuotaEight designated campsites available by advance reservation only between May 1 and November 30.
GroupMaximum 4 people per campsite; Ridge Camp accommodates up to 8 people.
Fees$6.00 non-refundable reservation fee plus $7.00 per person, per night. Norway Pass Trailhead parking is $5 per vehicle per day or a valid Recreation Pass.
TransferPermit holder must be 18 or older; once a permit is printed it cannot be changed.
SafetyArea is often snow-bound until late spring or early summer, with snowdrifts persisting into July; rugged terrain in the blast zone.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
Iron Creek Campground
Reservable · Extra Vehicle Fee $8.00
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Marble Mountain Group Picnic Site
Reservable · The site is available for a $100.00 recreation rental fee. There is an additional $6.00 reservation fee.
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 291Aug 301Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
LEWIS RIVER HC (WA) GIFFORD PINCHOT NF
Reservable + first-come
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
Tower Rock Campground
Reservable · Extra Vehicle Fee $8.00
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 3010Aug 3113
Availability: Recreation.gov