Smith River (California)
California's last major free-flowing river.
“Multi-day river adventure through PNW Rivers.”
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Smith River Quick Facts
- Permit Required
- Yes
- Booking Method
- Lottery
- Demand Level
- Moderate
The Experience
Why It Matters
Smith River offers a multi-day journey through some of America's most remote wilderness. River permits protect both the resource and the experience, ensuring uncrowded campsites and pristine conditions.
Permit Details
How to Get This Permit
Create a Recreation.gov account
Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Verify your email and add payment info ahead of time.
If unsuccessful, monitor cancellations
Permits get cancelled daily. Peak cancellation times are 24-48 hours before the trip date.
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Get instant notifications when cancellations happen. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
Smith River FAQ
How do I get a Smith River?
Smith River is obtained through a lottery system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When is the best time to get a Smith River?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the Smith River?
This permit has a demand score of 6/10, making it moderately competitive.
What happens if I can't get a Smith River?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
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Don't miss your chance at Smith River
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