Early access lotteryLottery
NPS confirms the lottery opens in February each year; exact 2026 dates are published on Recreation.gov. Trip window: 2026-06-01 → 2026-10-10.
Opens: Feb 10, 2026Apply by: Mar 3, 2026Results: Mar 14, 2026
National Park Service · WA
Mount Rainier Wilderness
Wilderness and climbing permit reservations for Wonderland Trail, high-use climbing corridors, and overnight backcountry camps.
Permit requiredovernightAlpine itinerary
Access requirement
2 ways to get a permit
General on-saleFirst-come
Rolling release 2 days before. Trip window: 2026-06-01 → 2026-10-10.
Opens: Apr 25, 2026
Permit rules
QuotaA wilderness permit is required year-round for all overnight backcountry stays; peak-season reservations use Recreation.gov.
GroupGroup and camp limits vary by wilderness camp or area.
FeesReservation and per-person per-night wilderness permit fees apply.
TransferPermits must be obtained in person at a wilderness information center or visitor center.
SafetySnow, river crossings, glacier travel proximity, weather, and daily mileage limits can change itinerary feasibility.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
COUGAR ROCK CAMPGROUND
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 276Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 308Aug 3125
Availability: Recreation.gov
COUGAR ROCK GROUP CAMPGROUND
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 291Aug 302Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
White River Campground
Reservable + first-come · To prevent theft we are now a cashless park. Use the Recreation.gov Mobile App to pay the nightly camping fee when you arrive at the campground site. Prior to arriving at the campground download the Recreation.gov App to your mobile device and create a Recreation.gov account. You may also pay the $20/night fee at the "iron rangers" with your credit card information, with the ranger (intermittent staffing) or at the White River Entrance fee station on your way out.
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov
OHANAPECOSH CAMPGROUND
Reservable
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 31—
Availability: Recreation.gov