Permits & Reservations

All campers and boaters are required to have a free permit during Glacier Bay National Park's peak season.

Permits provide a level of safety to your visit. If an emergency arises, the park service will have key information to ensure a quick response. Permits also help us track visitor and vessel use numbers. This helps to ensure everyone is able to have a great experience in Glacier Bay.

Camping

Camping permits are required for both the Bartlett Cove Campground and the Glacier Bay wilderness backcountry from May 1 through September 30. For more information on camping, check out our camping page. For information on kayaking, check out our Kayaking page. The Bartlett Cove campground does not take reservations, and is operated on a first come, first served basis.

Private Boating

Visiting Glacier Bay in a private vessel can be a wonderful experience. All vessels entering the bay from June 1 through August 31 are required to have a permit. For a boating permit application and other information go to our boating page.

Mountaineering

To receive a permit for mountaineering you may need a permit for more than one park. For more information, go to our mountaineering page.

Rafting

For acquiring a permit to raft the Alsek or Tatshenshini River you will need to go through several steps. The rafting page has much more information.

Filming

Will you need a permit for filming in Glacier Bay? For more information visit our filming page.

First Amendment Activities

A Special Use Permit may be required for certain activities such as political events, public assemblies, demonstrations, the distribution of literature, church services and other activities commonly referred to as "First Amendment" activities.

Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are rights protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution. People may exercise these rights in national parks, but the National Park Service (NPS) retains its responsibility to protect park resources and prevent conflict among park visitors. By law, the NPS has established places in the park where First Amendment activities can be accommodated. These areas are visible to the general visiting public without interfering with the public's enjoyment of the park. Visit the Superintendent's Compendium for First Amendment Activities locations.

Download an application for First Amendment Activities.

Special Use

Would you like to plan an event that will take place at Glacier Bay National Park? This would include fish tendering, public assembly, meetings, or weddings. No person will be denied as long as all permit conditions are met and the assembly is lawful. For more information or an application to apply for a special use permit contact Glacier Bay Commercial Services via email, or call us at 907-697-2567. Application fee is $50.

Business

If you are considering conducting business within the park you will need to go through a permit process.