Once you know where you want to go, the next step is securing a permit. To do this, you’ll need to open both the Backcountry/Wilderness Map and Recreation.gov.
Why It’s Confusing (and How to Navigate It)
The map can be overwhelming, and it’s often unclear how the campsites or zones on Recreation.gov connect to the map. Here’s how to make sense of it:
- Using the Map and Recreation.gov:
- If you click on a Starting Area (e.g., Beaver-Whatcom Pass), all the campsites along that trail—highlighted in yellow on the map—will appear in the “Site or Zone” column on Recreation.gov.
- Look for an “A” in the availability column for the dates you’re interested in. This indicates available sites.
- Determining Mileage and Elevation: To decide how far you want to travel, use these tools:
- AllTrails: Search for your route to easily manipulate markers and see distance and elevation to various campgrounds.
- GPS Apps (e.g., Gaia): Enter your route from the starting point to the campsite(s) you’re considering. This will provide precise mileage and elevation data.
- NPS Backcountry/Wilderness Map: Zoom in on your trail to find red mileage markers. Add these up to calculate total distance.
- Choosing Campsites or Zones:
- For trail zones: Reserve a specific campsite. Campsites are named, and Recreation.gov will list them under the “Site or Zone” column.
- For cross-country zones: Reserve the zone where you plan to camp. You can camp anywhere within the zone, though you may notice established sites.
- North zones are north of Highway 20.
- South zones are south of Highway 20.
- Zones are color-coded based on group size:
- Teal: Smaller group zones.
- Purple/Blue: Larger group zones.
Why This Side Page Exists
Planning a backcountry trip or camping adventure can feel overwhelming due to the complexity of maps and permits. This guide is here to simplify the process and help you connect the dots between maps, campsites, and permits. Check out the links and tools below to make your trip planning seamless!