Wilderness permit for backcountry camping at Lassen Volcanic: what applies in 2026?

Direct answer

Wilderness permit for backcountry camping (not needed for day hikes or drive-in campgrounds)

Exact conditions

Status: Required under the listed conditions
Applies to: specific activity
Place or corridor: Park backcountry, outside of the developed campgrounds
Effective dates: January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Published fee: $5
Release model: rolling window

Release detail: Permits can be reserved a maximum of 90 days prior to the start date. NPS publishes no daily release time.

Fee detail: $5 per-trip, per-person fee (16 years and older), plus a $6 per-permit non-refundable Recreation.gov administration fee. These are separate from and additional to the park entrance fee, and are not covered by an America the Beautiful pass.

Exceptions and limits

Day hiking does not need a wilderness permit.
Staying in a developed park campground does not need a wilderness permit.
NPS states there are no designated backcountry campsites and no quota restrictions.

Open the official action page

Official source

National Park Service · reviewed August 27, 2026

A wilderness permit is required to camp in park's backcountry (outside of park campgrounds). ... $6 per permit non-refundable Recreation.gov administration fee ... $5 per-trip, per-person fee (16 years and older) ... Permits can be reserved a maximum of 90 days prior to the start date.

Wilderness Permit Information - Lassen Volcanic National Park