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Pattison Backpack Camp Area Permit
Three backpack sites in the park backcountry above the Black River.
“A bucket-list destination in Pattison.”
Watch the dates you'd take— one alert covers all of them
Pattison Backpack Quick Facts
Pattison Backpack Permit Facts
- As of August 2026, Pattison Backpack in Pattison State Park (WI), State Parks requires a permit issued via reservation.
- Pattison Backpack is a high-demand permit, rating 7/10 on PermitSnag's demand index.
- Cancelled Pattison Backpack permits are re-released on the booking system; PermitSnag monitors availability and alerts watchers when dates open.
Key Information
Permit Details
How to Get This Permit
Create a Wisconsin DNR (GoingToCamp) account
Sign up at Wisconsin DNR (GoingToCamp) if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
Know the release schedule
Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.
Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
When to Go
Conditions
Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Longest days
- +Warmest temperatures
- +Reliable trail conditions
Challenges
- !Peak demand for permits
- !Book accommodations early
- !Weather varies
Difficulty Assessment
Fitness and endurance required
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Route finding and trail clarity
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
About This Permit
Wisconsin DNR: "Pattison State Park features the highest waterfalls in Wisconsin and the fourth highest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains. Big Manitou Falls is 165 feet high and Twin Little Manitou Falls is 31 feet high. This 1,400-acre park also has a lake with a beach, a nature center, camping and scenic hiking trails." (dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/pattison, read 2026-08-09.)
The Experience
Why It Matters
Pattison Backpack draws visitors from around the world to Pattison. The permit system balances access with preservation, ensuring the experience remains worthwhile for those who make the journey.
Plan Your Trip
Gear Checklist
Required and recommended gear for Pattison Backpack
Shuttle Services
Trailhead transportation options
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Experienced wilderness guides
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12,453 permits and 8,294 campsites secured by PermitSnag users
Pattison Backpack FAQ
How do I get a Pattison Backpack permit?
Pattison Backpack 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 Pattison Backpack?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Pattison Backpack permit?
This permit has a demand score of 7/10, making it highly competitive. We recommend having backup dates and using PermitSnag's cancellation alerts.
What if I can't get a Pattison Backpack permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. Pro and $12 single-permit alerts are checked about every minute, 24/7; free accounts are checked hourly.
👥Community
Trail Conditions
Questions
Trip Reports
Write ReportPhotography Guide
Golden Hour
Golden hour at Pattison Backpack offers the best photography conditions with warm, directional light.
Best Light
Early morning typically provides the clearest conditions and best light quality.
Beat the Crowds
Weekdays and early mornings see fewer visitors for cleaner compositions.
Classic Shots
- 📍Classic view of Pattison Backpack
- 📍Pattison scenery
- 📍Trail or route documentation
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