Permits & Reservations

Stalactites, stalagmites and other formations in yellow light. Photo credit: Kee Ylp (flickr)

Enter the remarkable Lehman Caves and explore a unique limestone cave full of stalactites, stalagmites, popcorn, cave shields, and mystery.

Campgrounds

Great Basin has five campgrounds available for visitors. Some campgrounds are closed seasonally due to weather.

Person using single rope technique to exit a wild cave

Wild Caving

Great Basin is home to over 40 caves hidden away underground. Wild caving permits are available for experienced cavers upon request.

Cave Tours & Campgrounds

Click the links to find information on Cave Tour reservations and reserving Campgrounds in the park. All cave tour reservations and many campgrounds are reservation only throughout the year and are handled by Recreation.gov. For assistance with Recreation.gov, call their reservation line at (877) 444-6777.

Backcountry Camping

Backcountry permits are required for camping near Baker or Johnson Lakes, and are available for free at either visitor center with no quota. Registration for all other backcountry camping is strongly recommended but not required.

Registration not only allows the park to monitor backcountry use, but also provides critical information in the event of an emergency. Stop at a visitor center to register and obtain a permit and a copy of backcountry camping regulations.

Find more Information on our Backcountry Regulations page.

Wild Caving

Seven wild (undeveloped) caves at Great Basin National Park (GRBA) are open by permit for recreational use. Permits will be approved for those who can demonstrate their experience with horizontal and vertical caving techniques, cave conservation ethics, and expertise with the required equipment. All cavers must also be screened for White-Nose Syndrome. Permits must be submitted at least two weeks before the intended caving trip. To obtain a permit application and learn more, head to the Wild Caving page on our website.

Picnicking with Large Groups

Upper Lehman Group Picnic area requires a Special Use Permit if the group size exceeds 50 people. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance, along with a $75 application fee. Maximum group size is 75. Email the Special Use Coordinator or call (775) 234-7521 for reservations and information.

Permits & Commercial Use Information

Do Business With Us

Conducting business or special activities within Great Basin National Park requires you to obtain a permit or authorization.
Special Use Permits

Special Use Permits are required for conducting nontraditional or unusual activities in the park, such as weddings.
Commercial Use Authorizations

CUAs are required of all operators who provide any goods, activities, agreements or other services to the public within the park.
Filming Permits

Filming Permits may be required for photography, filming, and audio recording in the park. Learn the ins and outs of requirements here.
After-Hours Cave Photography

For amateur and commercial photographers going into Lehman Caves for filming or photography activities outside regularly scheduled tours.
Research Permits

Understanding Great Basin's resources is vital to improving park management and expanding scientific knowledge.