ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.2 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| URL | https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/ |
| Last Crawled | 2026-04-10 06:53:39 (7 days ago) |
| First Indexed | 2018-04-18 14:35:41 (8 years ago) |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | 2026 California Campfire Permit for Backpacking, Campgrounds, Dispersed Camping, Boondocking - Northern California Hiking Trails |
| Meta Description | Hikers/backpackers/campers/boondockers, get 2026 California campfire permit rules and restrictions, plus how to get one online. Covers legal campfires and portable gas stoves in wildernesses, national forests, national parks, BLM lands, and private lands. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | Emeldil
at
Wikipedia
Hikers and backpackers, before backpacking get your 2026 California campfire permit and make sure you understand all the rules and laws pertaining to legally ha1ving a campfire or using a portable gas stove, including summer restrictions and prohibitions. Whether you like to backpack in wildernesses, national forests, national parks, or BLM lands, or you just like to camp in the outdoors outside developed campgrounds, you should find the information you need in this post.
Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit Online
The easiest way to get your campfire permit is
to do it online
. It’s a four-step process that ensures you know the basics of
campfire safety
:
Enter your name, address, and email into the application form
Watch a short YouTube video on the website (also just below in this post)
Answer 8 questions based on the info presented in the Youtube video
Print your permit!
Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit In-Person
You can quickly and easily get your permit at an office of the:
United States Forest Service (USFS)
Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire)
National Parks
Check the Internet for the nearest office and the hours it’s open. Note that some offices are closed on weekends, which is when many backpackers start their hikes.
California Campfire Permit Rules and Laws for Backpackers
You are required to have a permit on your person if you have a campfire or use a portable gas stove outside of developed campgrounds. You are also responsible for checking for any restrictions or prohibitions. Before you head into the woods for your backpacking trip (even if it’s a
spring backpacking trip
), check with the specific agency with jurisdiction.
The Top 100 Day Hikes and Backpacking Trips in Northern California
The all-color fourth edition features the best trails in:
Northern Sierra Nevada
Lassen and Mount Shasta areas
Trinity Alps and Marble Mountains
Redwood Coast
Wine Country and Bay Area
Includes trailhead directions and detailed maps and trail descriptions
Buy it:
on Amazon
|
on Bookshop.org
Often available at Barnes & Noble, REI, and other quality bookstores
and outdoor stores
(call first!)
What Does a California Campfire Permit Cost?
Absolutely nothing — there is no fee, at least for now. And I think it will stay this way. Cal Fire and the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other federal and state agencies want everyone to be aware of safe practices, and the current cost-free system allows as many people as possible to be informed, thus lessening the chance of costly wildfires.
What About in Developed Campgrounds?
You do not need a campfire permit in developed campgrounds in California. This includes nearly all the official campgrounds on United States Forest Service lands, Bureau of Land Management lands, in the national parks, and in private campgrounds — because these campgrounds have specific rings or pits. However,
if you are doing dispersed camping
, you definitely need a campfire permit.
You definitely need a campfire permit for dispersed camping/boondocking in California! And be very careful with your campfire out there.
In fact, I recommend you don’t have a campfire at all. I’ve been dispersed camping/boondocking for over 30 years and I’ve only had maybe two campfires the whole time, the last one about 15 years ago.
See Chapters Six and Seven in my book
Camp for Free: Dispersed Camping & Boondocking on America’s Public Lands
.
Backcountry and Backpacking Campfire Restrictions in California
You can count on campfire restrictions being put in place in California (and much of the western United States) at some point from midsummer on (think early to mid-July), once the
danger of wildfires
grows as fuels dry out and soil moisture decreases. These restrictions can vary, but they usually include no open flames, although backpacking stoves are frequently exempt, especially in wilderness areas in national forests.
Camp for Free in California National Forests
California’s national forests and BLM lands have thousands of miles of dirt roads with lots of spots for dispersed camping (boondocking).
My book provides all the info you need to get started (but is not a guide to specific sites):
Researching the best locations
Finding the best camping spots
Backcountry safety and ethics
What to take
Buy it on Amazon
Buy it on
Apple, Kobo, and Nook
However, the start and end dates of campfire restrictions varies by jurisdiction. For example, the
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
may prohibit campfires two weeks before the
Klamath National Forest
, which may prohibit them a week before
Lassen National Forest
.
Your Take, Backpackers
Questions or comments about the process? If you took the online test, did you get any questions wrong? (I got them all right, but
I also write test questions for a living
.) |
| Markdown | [Northern California Hiking Trails](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/)
[](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/)
- [Home](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/)
- [John’s Guidebooks](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/)
- [Camp for Free: Dispersed Camping & Boondocking on America’s Public Lands](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/camp-for-free-dispersed-camping-boondocking-on-americas-public-lands/)
- [Day Hiking: Mount Shasta, Lassen & Trinity Alps Regions — The Top Trails](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/)
- [Hike the Parks: Redwood National and State Parks](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hike-redwood-national-state-parks-book-trails/)
- [100 Classic Hikes: Northern California – Best Day Hiking and Backpacking Trails](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/)
- [Urban Trails Sacramento: Hiking, Walking, Running Guidebook](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/urban-trails-sacramento-hiking-walking-running-guidebook/)
- [2026 Trail Closures and Major Updates for my Northern California Books](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/trail-closures-updates/)
- [Day Hiking Notebook and Journal](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-notebook-journal/)
- [Blog](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/blog-posts/)
- [Dispersed Camping](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-united-states/)
- [Camp for Free: Dispersed Camping and Boondocking Book](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-book-camp-free/)
- [2026 Dispersed Camping and Boondocking Apps and Websites](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-websites-apps/)
- [Dispersed Camping Boondocking Gear Supplies Checklist: What to Take](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-gear-supplies-checklist-what-take/)
- [About John](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/about/)
- [Media](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/media-inquiries-hiking-camping-california-soares/)
- [Hire John](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/outdoor-travel-writer/)
- [Contact](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/contact/)
Mount Shasta Area \| Lassen Area \| Trinity Alps \| Shasta-Trinity NF \| Klamath NF \| Redwood Coast \| Wine Country \| Bay Area \| Sierra Nevada \| Hiking Advice
You are here:
[Home](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/)
/
[Wildfires and Northern California Hiking Trails](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/wildfires-and-northern-california-hiking-trails/)
/ 2026 California Campfire Permit for Backpacking, Campgrounds, Dispersed Camping, Boondocking
# 2026 California Campfire Permit for Backpacking, Campgrounds, Dispersed Camping, Boondocking
April 18, 2018 By [John Soares](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/author/admin/) [5 Comments](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comments)
%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23b6611c%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-1.4%209668%20-5940.7\)%20scale\(77.54175%20144.95341\)%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20d%3D%22M52.8%20401l-153.2-21.5L-45-15.1%20108.2%206.5z%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(59.1%2071.7%20223.8\)%20scale\(207.9071%2079.81525\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23984402%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(3.43485%2032.68038%20-53.77765%205.65226%20266.5%20277.8\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
[Emeldil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Emeldil) at [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/)
Hikers and backpackers, before backpacking get your 2026 California campfire permit and make sure you understand all the rules and laws pertaining to legally ha1ving a campfire or using a portable gas stove, including summer restrictions and prohibitions. Whether you like to backpack in wildernesses, national forests, national parks, or BLM lands, or you just like to camp in the outdoors outside developed campgrounds, you should find the information you need in this post.
## Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit Online
The easiest way to get your campfire permit is [to do it online](https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/). It’s a four-step process that ensures you know the basics of [campfire safety](https://www.fire.ca.gov/media/5250/campfiretips.pdf):
1. Enter your name, address, and email into the application form
2. Watch a short YouTube video on the website (also just below in this post)
3. Answer 8 questions based on the info presented in the Youtube video
4. Print your permit\!
## Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit In-Person
You can quickly and easily get your permit at an office of the:
- United States Forest Service (USFS)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire)
- National Parks
Check the Internet for the nearest office and the hours it’s open. Note that some offices are closed on weekends, which is when many backpackers start their hikes.
## California Campfire Permit Rules and Laws for Backpackers
You are required to have a permit on your person if you have a campfire or use a portable gas stove outside of developed campgrounds. You are also responsible for checking for any restrictions or prohibitions. Before you head into the woods for your backpacking trip (even if it’s a [spring backpacking trip](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2019/02/05/northern-california-spring-backpacking-trips/)), check with the specific agency with jurisdiction.
#### The Top 100 Day Hikes and Backpacking Trips in Northern California
%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22azure%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-83.2%20142.3%20-27.9\)%20scale\(51.50814%20129.36614\)%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%232d221f%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20d%3D%22M5.3%20318.2L-18.2%20140l261.4%2084.4z%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(3.13754%20-32.58463%2060.9999%205.87362%20203.3%2023.4\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23d6fbff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(2.89677%20-32.3952%2095.3334%208.5247%20181.7%20118.3\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)**The all-color fourth edition features the best trails in:**
- Northern Sierra Nevada
- Lassen and Mount Shasta areas
- Trinity Alps and Marble Mountains
- Redwood Coast
- Wine Country and Bay Area
Includes trailhead directions and detailed maps and trail descriptions
**Buy it:** [on Amazon](http://amzn.to/2FDrBF3) \| [on Bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680510560)
**Often available at Barnes & Noble, REI, and other quality bookstores** **and outdoor stores** (call first!)
## What Does a California Campfire Permit Cost?
Absolutely nothing — there is no fee, at least for now. And I think it will stay this way. Cal Fire and the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other federal and state agencies want everyone to be aware of safe practices, and the current cost-free system allows as many people as possible to be informed, thus lessening the chance of costly wildfires.
## What About in Developed Campgrounds?
You do not need a campfire permit in developed campgrounds in California. This includes nearly all the official campgrounds on United States Forest Service lands, Bureau of Land Management lands, in the national parks, and in private campgrounds — because these campgrounds have specific rings or pits. However, [if you are doing dispersed camping](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-book-camp-free/), you definitely need a campfire permit.
## What About Dispersed Camping/Boondocking in California?
You definitely need a campfire permit for dispersed camping/boondocking in California! And be very careful with your campfire out there.
In fact, I recommend you don’t have a campfire at all. I’ve been dispersed camping/boondocking for over 30 years and I’ve only had maybe two campfires the whole time, the last one about 15 years ago.
**See Chapters Six and Seven in my book [*Camp for Free: Dispersed Camping & Boondocking on America’s Public Lands*](https://amzn.to/2CPMlbP).**
## Backcountry and Backpacking Campfire Restrictions in California
You can count on campfire restrictions being put in place in California (and much of the western United States) at some point from midsummer on (think early to mid-July), once the [danger of wildfires](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/07/28/surviving-wildfire-hiking-what-do/) grows as fuels dry out and soil moisture decreases. These restrictions can vary, but they usually include no open flames, although backpacking stoves are frequently exempt, especially in wilderness areas in national forests.
#### Camp for Free in California National Forests
%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23590e0b%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-238.7717%20-68.6241%2024.6577%20-85.79437%2061.2%20336.7\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%239ef2ff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-2.94604%20-99.26244%20246.12896%20-7.30494%20119.5%2079.6\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23db7725%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(124.44903%20-8.72503%203.35706%2047.88334%2072.6%20241.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%23202e35%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20d%3D%22M-12.8%20428l-18.8-96.6L105%20304.8l18.7%2096.7z%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)**California’s national forests and BLM lands have thousands of miles of dirt roads with lots of spots for dispersed camping (boondocking).** My book provides all the info you need to get started (but is not a guide to specific sites):
- Researching the best locations
- Finding the best camping spots
- Backcountry safety and ethics
- What to take
[Buy it on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2CPMlbP)
Buy it on [Apple, Kobo, and Nook](https://books2read.com/u/3RnavL)
However, the start and end dates of campfire restrictions varies by jurisdiction. For example, the [Shasta-Trinity National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/shasta-trinity-national-forest-hiking-trails/) may prohibit campfires two weeks before the [Klamath National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/klamath-national-forest/), which may prohibit them a week before [Lassen National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/lassen-national-forest-hiking-trails/).
## Your Take, Backpackers
Questions or comments about the process? If you took the online test, did you get any questions wrong? (I got them all right, but [I also write test questions for a living](https://productivewriters.com/freelance-writing-courses-ebooks/writing-college-textbook-supplements/).)
[  Share on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fnortherncaliforniahikingtrails.com%2Fblog%2F2018%2F04%2F18%2Fcalifornia-campfire-permit-backpacking%2F)
[  Tweet](https://x.com/intent/post?text=Hey%2C+check+out+this+cool+site+I+found%3A+www.yourname.com+%23Topic+via%40my_twitter_name&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnortherncaliforniahikingtrails.com%2Fblog%2F2018%2F04%2F18%2Fcalifornia-campfire-permit-backpacking%2F)
[  Follow us](http://eepurl.com/dpWVVX)
### Related Posts:
- [%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23c16222%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(109.74651%20-17.88182%209.7569%2059.88122%2083.9%20136.6\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23a8d2e0%22%20cx%3D%22166%22%20cy%3D%2219%22%20rx%3D%22255%22%20ry%3D%2249%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23a5c8d5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-39.77545%20-2.93037%2010.92446%20-148.28351%20253.4%2079.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%238d7f8c%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(4.7%20-702.6%201766.2\)%20scale\(62.11629%2026.26594\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E) 2026 Dispersed Camping/Boondocking Changes: Updates to my Camp for Free Book](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2023/11/20/2024-dispersed-camping-boondocking-changes/)
- [%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23316256%22%20cx%3D%22235%22%20cy%3D%2248%22%20rx%3D%2256%22%20ry%3D%2268%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23e1dee4%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(134.62378%2069.95549%20-12.91898%2024.86156%20200.9%20146\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23805d23%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-6.1%201021.4%20-51.4\)%20scale\(31.10221%2093.66742\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23dedbe1%22%20cx%3D%22104%22%20cy%3D%225%22%20rx%3D%2272%22%20ry%3D%2223%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E) Give the Gift of Hiking and Camping Books This Year\!](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2024/11/17/gifts-books-hiking-camping-california-holiday/)
- [ New Trinity Alps Map: Hiking Trails and More](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/04/04/trinity-alps-map-hiking-trails/)
- [ 2025 Free Entrance Days at Northern California National Parks and Monuments](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/01/18/2025-free-entrance-california-national-parks/)
- [%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23e2d5bf%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-155%20112%2050\)%20scale\(117.46636%2046.71765\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23004cc3%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(252.06102%20-13.65114%201.97334%2036.43674%20139.2%209.9\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23261d19%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-42.68706%2017.85638%20-11.82445%20-28.26725%20231.4%2055.8\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%233674e2%22%20cx%3D%229%22%20cy%3D%2212%22%20rx%3D%2265%22%20ry%3D%2265%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E) 2024 Free Entrance Days at Northern California National Parks and Monuments](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2024/01/08/2024-free-entrance-california-national-parks/)
- [ New Mount Shasta Regional Trail Map: Hikers, Bikers, and More](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/05/14/mount-shasta-trail-map-hikers-bikers/)
Filed Under: [Wildfires and Northern California Hiking Trails](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/wildfires-and-northern-california-hiking-trails/)
My books [*Day Hiking: Mount Shasta, Lassen & Trinity Alps Regions*](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/), [*Hike the Parks: Redwood National & State Parks*](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hike-redwood-national-state-parks-book-trails/), and [*100 Classic Hikes: Northern California*](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/) include all the best hikes in Northern California.
### **Click the covers to see the books on** **Amazon**
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.5%20.5\)%20scale\(1.09375\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fff6ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(176.33693%2040.82019%20-8.7788%2037.92308%2096.8%200\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231c0c0a%22%20cx%3D%2224%22%20cy%3D%22215%22%20rx%3D%22181%22%20ry%3D%2254%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%230eb1d4%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(49.95873%20-13.76093%209.51188%2034.53266%2086%20133.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fef2ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-6.298%2021.85378%20-87.93198%20-25.34098%20133%204\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://amzn.to/2GUNIqj)
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.7%20.7\)%20scale\(1.30078\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff7562%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(4.02563%20-38.18535%20121.37262%2012.79552%2038.2%2016\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231c4c1e%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(144.15189%20-15.6599%205.80236%2053.41167%2086.1%20124.2\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff5746%22%20cx%3D%2298%22%20cy%3D%22211%22%20rx%3D%22109%22%20ry%3D%2222%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%230a0627%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-67.47946%20-.91108%20.24964%20-18.4895%2037.6%20252.4\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://amzn.to/2U9Y4oU)%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23efffff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-5.84547%2042.614%20-114.79436%20-15.74663%20132.5%2097.8\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23342d2a%22%20cx%3D%2229%22%20cy%3D%22199%22%20rx%3D%22179%22%20ry%3D%2257%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20d%3D%22M131.2-14.6l86%2018.3-10.4%2048.9-86-18.3z%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23d6f9ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(7%20-746.2%201305.3\)%20scale\(81.97857%2027.15428\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
### Comments
1. Bryan says
[January 7, 2020 at 3:47 pm](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281121)
It looks like the website for obtaining a permit online is no longer available.
[Reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281121)
- [John Soares](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog) says
[January 7, 2020 at 4:48 pm](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281122)
Thank you for the heads-up, Bryan. Cal Fire changed the URL. The link works now, and let’s hope it continues to work.
[Reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281122)
- Bryan says
[January 7, 2020 at 11:14 pm](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281139)
Thank you so much\!
[Reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-281139)
2. Lisa says
[January 16, 2020 at 4:55 pm](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-282221)
I am not able to access the video on line.
[Reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-282221)
- [John Soares](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog) says
[January 16, 2020 at 6:49 pm](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-282222)
It’s working fine for me. It’s a Youtube video, so perhaps your browser is (or was) having trouble accessing Youtube. Could be security settings in your browser, or perhaps a setting in your anti-virus or malware software.
Here’s the direct link on Youtube: <https://youtu.be/f8kFVSOjOGo>
[Reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#comment-282222)
### Leave a Reply [Cancel reply](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/#respond)
#### Dispersed Camping & Boondocking
%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23580f0b%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(283.85358%2091.13541%20-34.2045%20106.53457%2095.8%20415.1\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%239ff2ff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(89.4%2025.8%20122.6\)%20scale\(120.44764%20298.12501\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23db7728%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(4.6744%2059.47338%20-140.39875%2011.03485%2095%20287.2\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%237bccff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-179.5%2074%2023.6\)%20scale\(298.125%2057.11386\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
My new book\!
[Buy it on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2CPMlbP).
Buy it on [Apple, Kobo, Nook, and Scribd](https://books2read.com/u/3RnavL).
#### Day Hiking: Mount Shasta, Lassen & Trinity Alps Regions
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.8%20.8\)%20scale\(1.64063\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fff4ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(9.9%20-34.5%20745.7\)%20scale\(177.70931%2028.12498\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231e0e0b%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(181.7689%209.16887%20-2.87973%2057.08939%2039.6%20219.2\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2308b2da%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-9.5527%20-32.24104%2049.14086%20-14.55994%2084.2%20135.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23f9efff%22%20cx%3D%22156%22%20rx%3D%2276%22%20ry%3D%2233%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/)All my favorite hikes in my home territory! [Details here](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/) -- and see it on [Amazon here](https://amzn.to/2GUNIqj) and [at BookShop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680510584) (supports independent bookstores).
#### Explore the Trails of Redwood National and State Parks
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(1%201\)%20scale\(2.05078\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff7563%22%20cx%3D%2267%22%20cy%3D%2226%22%20rx%3D%22110%22%20ry%3D%2229%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231a4c1f%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-143.85663%2018.17332%20-6.48436%20-51.32902%2062.8%20124.4\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff5948%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(91.85672%204.91%20-1.1584%2021.6714%2089.7%20210.6\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2306082c%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-57.7572%20.72922%20-.19214%20-15.21822%2041.7%20249.4\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hike-redwood-national-state-parks-book-trails/)
All-color book with all the best trails and activities. [Details here](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hike-redwood-national-state-parks-book-trails/), or see it [on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2U9Y4oU) and [at Bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680512090) (supports independent bookstores).
#### Search The Site
#### 100 Classic Hikes: Northern California
[%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23f1ffff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(175.0155%2023.64942%20-9.13048%2067.56931%20214%20155.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(.8%20-1916.1%2020856\)%20scale\(105.55221%2045.66105\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%233a312d%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-14.2751%2098.40762%20-295.34624%20-42.8432%20100.2%20323\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23caf5ff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-103.93753%20-14.42252%206.5011%20-46.85094%20217.9%20161.4\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/) Check out the new fourth edition of [*100 Classic Hikes: Northern California*](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/). Completely updated! Find it [on Amazon here](http://amzn.to/2FDrBF3) and [at BookShop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680510560) (supports independent bookstores).
#### Urban Trails Sacramento
%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(1%201\)%20scale\(2.05078\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-177.8%2035.4%2090\)%20scale\(145%2049.13499\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%232a2f0d%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-144.99978%20-.25307%20.11556%20-66.2114%20101%2056.9\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fff%22%20cx%3D%2270%22%20cy%3D%22182%22%20rx%3D%22145%22%20ry%3D%2239%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2307060d%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(91.90106%20.1383%20-.02559%2017.00358%2027.8%20254.5\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
[The best hiking, walking, and running trails in and near Sacramento](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/urban-trails-sacramento-hiking-walking-running-guidebook/) in this compact, all-color guidebook.
[Buy it at BookShop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680512847) (supports local bookstores)
[Buy it on Amazon](https://amzn.to/3uaiVeT)
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23e78341%22%20cx%3D%22129%22%20cy%3D%22133%22%20rx%3D%2269%22%20ry%3D%2269%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%236ca5d0%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-2.7641%20-46.62329%20126.32309%20-7.48915%2086.4%20255\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%233a4d0e%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-51.63062%209.38287%20-19.03564%20-104.74638%2021%2077\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%232c4a2a%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-2.48038%20-184.87285%2055.5877%20-.7458%20254%20132.7\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/about/)[**Find out more about hiking guidebook author John Soares**](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/about/)
#### Trail Closures and Major Updates for My Hiking Guidebooks
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%233caae1%22%20cx%3D%22130%22%20cy%3D%2280%22%20rx%3D%2281%22%20ry%3D%2281%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fffff5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-18.6%20594.2%20-666.5\)%20scale\(40.70472%2033.13634\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23cce8ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(93.8%20-56.9%2060.8\)%20scale\(211.88041%2043.31707\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fffff3%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(38.99077%2015.972%20-9.36532%2022.86256%20235.3%200\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/trail-closures-updates/)
[Get details of trail closures and major updates for all my hiking guidebooks](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/trail-closures-updates/).
#### My Northern California Hiking Trails Youtube Channel
%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.6%20.6\)%20scale\(1.17188\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23000203%22%20cx%3D%2230%22%20cy%3D%22115%22%20rx%3D%2269%22%20ry%3D%2227%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23000708%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(8.4%2020.4%20486.2\)%20scale\(25.83181%2018.43974\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23000306%22%20cx%3D%2231%22%20cy%3D%22120%22%20rx%3D%2258%22%20ry%3D%2216%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff0008%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-9.78175%2084.551%20-109.26823%20-12.6413%20203.5%2065.3\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
[Visit my Youtube channel](https://www.youtube.com/c/NorthernCaliforniaHikingTrails) for short vids of hiking trails all over Northern California. Subscribe to get notifications of new videos.
#### Get Frequent Updates on Trails and Hiking: Like My Facebook Page and Join the Conversation\!
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(1%201\)%20scale\(1.91406\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2360b5ed%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(-176.5%2031.7%2027\)%20scale\(48.26416%2044.02138\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23100%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-143.78567%2025.09462%20-7.61326%20-43.62203%20194.8%20129.1\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20cx%3D%22193%22%20cy%3D%22135%22%20rx%3D%2282%22%20ry%3D%2218%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%235e4432%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(174%2091.5%2042.6\)%20scale\(62.19109%2021.13143\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://www.facebook.com/JohnSoaresHikingGuidebookAuthor/)
#### Most Recent Posts
- [New Mount Shasta Regional Trail Map: Hikers, Bikers, and More](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/05/14/mount-shasta-trail-map-hikers-bikers/)
- [Piety Hill Loop Trail Hike: Perfect in Spring\!](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/04/13/piety-hill-loop-trail-hike/)
- [New Trinity Alps Map: Hiking Trails and More](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/04/04/trinity-alps-map-hiking-trails/)
- [2025 Free Entrance Days at Northern California National Parks and Monuments](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2025/01/18/2025-free-entrance-california-national-parks/)
- [Give the Gift of Hiking and Camping Books This Year\!](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2024/11/17/gifts-books-hiking-camping-california-holiday/)
#### Blog Categories: Find Posts on Specific Regions and Specific Topics
#### Affiliate Links Disclosure
Some links to products and services on this site are affiliate links, primarily to books and other products on Amazon. This means I receive a commission if you purchase the product or service, at no additional cost to you.
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.9%20.9\)%20scale\(1.78906\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23a2a2a3%22%20cx%3D%2251%22%20cy%3D%2213%22%20rx%3D%2226%22%20ry%3D%2226%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%239da95e%22%20cx%3D%2276%22%20cy%3D%22246%22%20rx%3D%2223%22%20ry%3D%2228%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23222223%22%20cx%3D%22167%22%20cy%3D%22243%22%20rx%3D%2230%22%20ry%3D%2230%22%2F%3E%3Cpath%20fill%3D%22%23232324%22%20d%3D%22M-16%20204.2l10.1%2050.1L31.3%20271l-9.5-44.5z%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://lnt.org/)
#### Hiking Redwood National & State Parks
%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(1%201\)%20scale\(2.05078\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff7563%22%20cx%3D%2267%22%20cy%3D%2226%22%20rx%3D%22110%22%20ry%3D%2229%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231a4c1f%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-143.85663%2018.17332%20-6.48436%20-51.32902%2062.8%20124.4\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23ff5948%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(91.85672%204.91%20-1.1584%2021.6714%2089.7%20210.6\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2306082c%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-57.7572%20.72922%20-.19214%20-15.21822%2041.7%20249.4\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)
Hike peaceful redwood groves and rugged coastline: [more info](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hike-redwood-national-state-parks-book-trails/).
#### Day Hiking: Mount Shasta, Lassen & Trinity Alps
[%22%20transform%3D%22translate\(.8%20.8\)%20scale\(1.64063\)%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23fff4ff%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(9.9%20-34.5%20745.7\)%20scale\(177.70931%2028.12498\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%231e0e0b%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(181.7689%209.16887%20-2.87973%2057.08939%2039.6%20219.2\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%2308b2da%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-9.5527%20-32.24104%2049.14086%20-14.55994%2084.2%20135.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23f9efff%22%20cx%3D%22156%22%20rx%3D%2276%22%20ry%3D%2233%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/)
All my favorite hikes in my home territory! [Details here](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/day-hiking-mount-shasta-lassen-trinity-alps-trails/).
#### 100 Classic Hikes: Northern California
[%27%20fill-opacity%3D%27.5%27%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23f1ffff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(175.0155%2023.64942%20-9.13048%2067.56931%20214%20155.3\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22rotate\(.8%20-1916.1%2020856\)%20scale\(105.55221%2045.66105\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%233a312d%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-14.2751%2098.40762%20-295.34624%20-42.8432%20100.2%20323\)%22%2F%3E%3Cellipse%20fill%3D%22%23caf5ff%22%20fill-opacity%3D%22.5%22%20rx%3D%221%22%20ry%3D%221%22%20transform%3D%22matrix\(-103.93753%20-14.42252%206.5011%20-46.85094%20217.9%20161.4\)%22%2F%3E%3C%2Fg%3E%3C%2Fsvg%3E)](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/) Check out the new fourth edition of [***100 Classic Hikes in Northern California***](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/100-classic-hikes-in-northern-california/). Completely updated\!
Copyright © 2026 by John Soares. All rights reserved.
- [Home](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/)
- [John’s Guidebooks](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/hiking-guides/)
- [Blog](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/blog-posts/)
- [Dispersed Camping](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-united-states/)
- [About John](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/about/)
- [Hire John](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/outdoor-travel-writer/)
- [Contact](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/contact/)
Like just about every other website on the planet, NCHT uses cookies. Continuing to use the site means you're OK with that.[Cookie settings]()[ACCEPT]()
Privacy & Cookies Policy
Close
#### Privacy Overview
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
[Necessary]()
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
[Non-necessary]()
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
[SAVE & ACCEPT]() |
| Readable Markdown | 
[Emeldil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/User:Emeldil) at [Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/)
Hikers and backpackers, before backpacking get your 2026 California campfire permit and make sure you understand all the rules and laws pertaining to legally ha1ving a campfire or using a portable gas stove, including summer restrictions and prohibitions. Whether you like to backpack in wildernesses, national forests, national parks, or BLM lands, or you just like to camp in the outdoors outside developed campgrounds, you should find the information you need in this post.
## Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit Online
The easiest way to get your campfire permit is [to do it online](https://permit.preventwildfiresca.org/). It’s a four-step process that ensures you know the basics of [campfire safety](https://www.fire.ca.gov/media/5250/campfiretips.pdf):
1. Enter your name, address, and email into the application form
2. Watch a short YouTube video on the website (also just below in this post)
3. Answer 8 questions based on the info presented in the Youtube video
4. Print your permit\!
## Get a 2026 California Campfire Permit In-Person
You can quickly and easily get your permit at an office of the:
- United States Forest Service (USFS)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire)
- National Parks
Check the Internet for the nearest office and the hours it’s open. Note that some offices are closed on weekends, which is when many backpackers start their hikes.
## California Campfire Permit Rules and Laws for Backpackers
You are required to have a permit on your person if you have a campfire or use a portable gas stove outside of developed campgrounds. You are also responsible for checking for any restrictions or prohibitions. Before you head into the woods for your backpacking trip (even if it’s a [spring backpacking trip](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2019/02/05/northern-california-spring-backpacking-trips/)), check with the specific agency with jurisdiction.
#### The Top 100 Day Hikes and Backpacking Trips in Northern California
**The all-color fourth edition features the best trails in:**
- Northern Sierra Nevada
- Lassen and Mount Shasta areas
- Trinity Alps and Marble Mountains
- Redwood Coast
- Wine Country and Bay Area
Includes trailhead directions and detailed maps and trail descriptions
**Buy it:** [on Amazon](http://amzn.to/2FDrBF3) \| [on Bookshop.org](https://bookshop.org/a/22742/9781680510560)
**Often available at Barnes & Noble, REI, and other quality bookstores** **and outdoor stores** (call first!)
## What Does a California Campfire Permit Cost?
Absolutely nothing — there is no fee, at least for now. And I think it will stay this way. Cal Fire and the US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and other federal and state agencies want everyone to be aware of safe practices, and the current cost-free system allows as many people as possible to be informed, thus lessening the chance of costly wildfires.
## What About in Developed Campgrounds?
You do not need a campfire permit in developed campgrounds in California. This includes nearly all the official campgrounds on United States Forest Service lands, Bureau of Land Management lands, in the national parks, and in private campgrounds — because these campgrounds have specific rings or pits. However, [if you are doing dispersed camping](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/dispersed-camping-boondocking-book-camp-free/), you definitely need a campfire permit.
You definitely need a campfire permit for dispersed camping/boondocking in California! And be very careful with your campfire out there.
In fact, I recommend you don’t have a campfire at all. I’ve been dispersed camping/boondocking for over 30 years and I’ve only had maybe two campfires the whole time, the last one about 15 years ago.
**See Chapters Six and Seven in my book [*Camp for Free: Dispersed Camping & Boondocking on America’s Public Lands*](https://amzn.to/2CPMlbP).**
## Backcountry and Backpacking Campfire Restrictions in California
You can count on campfire restrictions being put in place in California (and much of the western United States) at some point from midsummer on (think early to mid-July), once the [danger of wildfires](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/2018/07/28/surviving-wildfire-hiking-what-do/) grows as fuels dry out and soil moisture decreases. These restrictions can vary, but they usually include no open flames, although backpacking stoves are frequently exempt, especially in wilderness areas in national forests.
#### Camp for Free in California National Forests
**California’s national forests and BLM lands have thousands of miles of dirt roads with lots of spots for dispersed camping (boondocking).** My book provides all the info you need to get started (but is not a guide to specific sites):
- Researching the best locations
- Finding the best camping spots
- Backcountry safety and ethics
- What to take
[Buy it on Amazon](https://amzn.to/2CPMlbP)
Buy it on [Apple, Kobo, and Nook](https://books2read.com/u/3RnavL)
However, the start and end dates of campfire restrictions varies by jurisdiction. For example, the [Shasta-Trinity National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/shasta-trinity-national-forest-hiking-trails/) may prohibit campfires two weeks before the [Klamath National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/klamath-national-forest/), which may prohibit them a week before [Lassen National Forest](https://northerncaliforniahikingtrails.com/blog/category/lassen-national-forest-hiking-trails/).
## Your Take, Backpackers
Questions or comments about the process? If you took the online test, did you get any questions wrong? (I got them all right, but [I also write test questions for a living](https://productivewriters.com/freelance-writing-courses-ebooks/writing-college-textbook-supplements/).) |
| Shard | 7 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 3534941325545330207 |
| Unparsed URL | com,northerncaliforniahikingtrails!/blog/2018/04/18/california-campfire-permit-backpacking/ s443 |