Reservation7/10
Old Rag Day Ticket cancellations
Day ticket for popular scramble....
Shenandoah Backcountry Permit
Shenandoah National Park · Virginia
Each entry point carries its own quota
Reserved on Recreation.gov since 2024 ($6 permit + $9/person).
70% of the openings our scanner caught on Shenandoah Backcountry were gone within 10 minutes.
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Shenandoah Backcountry Quick Facts
Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodReservation
Demand LevelLow4/10
Cost$6 + $9/person
Key Information
Permit Details
TypeOvernight
Booking MethodReservation
Demand Level4/10
LocationVA
Weather Forecast
Trailhead (5,000 ft)
Today
🌫️
72°
64°
39%
Sun
🌧️
75°
64°
31%
Mon
🌧️
72°
50°
Tue
☁️
70°
47°
Wed
☁️
77°
51°
Thu
☀️
80°
55°
26%
Fri
☁️
85°
61°
28%
View full NWS forecast →Mountain weather changes rapidly. This forecast is a guide—always be prepared for worse conditions.
How to Get This Permit
1
Create a National Park Service account
Sign up at National Park Service if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
2
Know the release schedule
Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.
3
Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
4
Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
Learn More
Plan Your Trip
🎒
Gear Checklist
Required and recommended gear for Shenandoah Backcountry
🚐
Shuttle Services
Trailhead transportation options
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Guide Services
Experienced wilderness guides
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Safety & Planning
Shenandoah Backcountry FAQ
How do I get a Shenandoah Backcountry permit?
Shenandoah Backcountry permits use a reservation system. PermitSnag sends lottery open, deadline, and results reminders; you can also enable cancellation alerts if spots open later.
When is the best time to visit Shenandoah Backcountry?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Shenandoah Backcountry permit?
This permit has a demand score of 4/10, making it relatively accessible.
What if I can't get a Shenandoah Backcountry permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $19 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
👥Community
Trail Conditions
No active conditions reported
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Questions
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Trip Reports
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Where to Stay
Nearby campgrounds to complete your Shenandoah Backcountry trip
🏕️
Very HardIn Demand6 sitesBear Creek Lake State Park Acorn Campground
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Book campsite
🏕️
Very HardIn Demand11 sitesBear Creek Lake State Park Acorn Campground Waterview Sites
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Book campsite
🏕️
Very HardIn Demand16 sitesBear Creek Lake State Park Black Oak Campground
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Book campsite
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