Are you planning an overnight backpacking trip in Yosemite Wilderness? Read on for info on the wilderness permit reservation process, where you can camp, and more.

Yosemite Wilderness covers 1,101 square miles and is home to more than 750 miles of trail. Yosemite Conservancy has partnered with the National Park Service to manage the wilderness permit reservation system for 30 years.

Before you apply for a permit, decide what your goals are:

➡️ Are you trying to summit iconic peaks like Half Dome or Clouds Rest?
➡️ Are you searching for solitude, alpine lakes, and lush meadows?
➡️ Do you just want a place to sleep in the dirt?

Not sure what you want? Take our quiz on the bottom right with the blue chat bubble or keep reading for everything you need to know about backpacking in Yosemite.

Planning your trip

Where do I begin?

Start by finding the entry trailhead that aligns with your desired trip here.

I have my trip planned. How do I get a wilderness permit?

Permit reservations

Explore how and when to apply for a wilderness permit reservation.

Permit review process

Learn about our permit review process and how to modify your reservation.

I have a reservation. What now?

Picking up your permit

Learn about when and where to pick up your permit, and where to park.

Know before you go

Explore proper food storage, wilderness conditions, and more.

Still have questions? We are here to help!

Contact Us anytime and we will respond within two business days. You can also reach us by phone during our office hours: Monday through Friday from 9 am—12 pm and 1 pm —4 pm at 209-372-0740.

Want a guided wilderness experience?

Yosemite Conservancy offers both Outdoor Adventures and personalized Custom Adventures with expert naturalists, which include wilderness permits for overnight trips.

Wilderness (TEST)