Do I need a permit to float Smith River?
Yes. You need a permit to float Smith River in Montana Rivers, and it is awarded by lottery rather than first come, first served. The permit is the Smith River (Montana).
Lottery permit
What the Smith River permit costs and covers
- Fee
- Float fees per person: $25 resident, $60 non-resident (13+); $15 ages 6-12; free under 6
- Group size limit
- 15 people
- Applications open
- January 1
- Applications close
- February 15
- Results
- February 18
- Season starts
- April 1
- Season ends
- August 15
What the rules require
- Maximum group size is 15 people per permit, including children
- You may only camp at your assigned boat camps
- From May 15 through July 15, camping is limited to four nights, counting any nights spent at private cabins or guest ranches
- Layover nights are allowed only at mid-canyon boat camps between Two Creek and Upper Parker, and only one layover during the May 15 to July 15 high-use season
- An approved portable, hard-sided toilet is required and must be shown to the ranger at Camp Baker for inspection
- Food, garbage and attractants must be in an IGBC approved bear-resistant device or electric fencing, or suspended at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet horizontally from a vertical support
- Drones are prohibited in the corridor
- Watercraft must pass Montana aquatic invasive species inspection; the AIS validation fee is $10 for non-motorized watercraft
- Float fees are due at launch and apply year-round
Published rules for the Smith River (Montana), quoted as written.
Getting one
Lottery winners cancel and miss payment deadlines, and those dates go back into the booking system through the season. PermitSnag watches Smith River (Montana) and sends you an alert the moment one reappears.
Common questions about the Smith River permit
Do I need a permit to float Smith River?
Yes. You need a permit to float Smith River in Montana Rivers, and it is awarded by lottery rather than first come, first served. The permit is the Smith River (Montana).
How much does a Smith River permit cost?
Float fees per person: $25 resident, $60 non-resident (13+); $15 ages 6-12; free under 6.
When can I apply for a Smith River permit?
The application window opens January 1. It closes February 15. Results: February 18.
How many people can be on one Smith River permit?
15 people.
When is the Smith River permit season?
Season starts: April 1. Season ends: August 15.
What if I lose the Smith River lottery?
Lottery winners cancel and miss payment deadlines, and those dates return to the booking system through the season. PermitSnag watches Smith River (Montana) for those cancellations and sends an alert when one appears.