Monthly quota releaseTimed release
Permits release on the first day of the preceding month. Trip window: 2026-04-01 → 2026-10-31.
U.S. Forest Service · WA
Mount St. Helens Summit
Quota-season summit permits for travel above 4,800 feet on the slopes of Mount St. Helens.
Permit requireddayUseStrenuous scramble10 mi4,500 ft gain
Access requirement
How to get a permit
Permit rules
QuotaPermits are required year-round above 4,800 feet; April 1 through October 31 is quota controlled.
GroupMaximum group size is 12.
Fees$20 per climber during quota season plus a non-refundable reservation fee.
TransferPermit holder rules apply; names and group size can only be changed before posted deadlines.
SafetyActive volcano hazards, snow, exposure, rockfall, and changing weather require careful preparation.
Where to stay
Campgrounds nearby
Official campground records near this destination. Availability is labeled with the source actually checked.
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
Kalama Horse Camp
Reservable · Extra Vehicle Fee $8.00
Aug 25—Aug 26—Aug 27—Aug 28—Aug 2923Aug 3025Aug 3125
Availability: Recreation.gov
LOWER FALLS CAMPGROUND
Reservable · If a customer does not arrive at the campground or group facility by check-out time (1 p.m.) the day after arrival he or she will be assessed a $20.00 service fee and forfeit the first night use fee and will release the campsite for others to use.
Aug 25—Aug 263Aug 274Aug 28—Aug 29—Aug 30—Aug 311
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