Special Use Permits, Commercial Permits & Overnight Reservations

Filming, Still Photography, and Audio Recording in Parks

In most cases, permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that involves eight or fewer individuals. In order to avoid permit and fee requirements, the filming, still photography, or audio recording must meet all of the following conditions:

• Occurs in areas open to the public;

• Uses hand-carried equipment only;

• Does not require exclusive use of a site;

• Does not adversely impact park resources, values, or other visitors; and

• Is not likely to result in additional administrative costs for the NPS.

Permits and fees are never required for filming, still photography, or audio recording that is associated with an activity or event that has been authorized under a written instrument (e.g., permit or agreement), such as a wedding, sporting event, demonstration or other activity.

All filming, still photography, and audio recording is treated the same under the new law - the EXPLORE Act. It does not matter whether it is commercial, non-commercial, for content creation, by a student, or conducted by media or for news gathering.

When a filming, still photography, or audio recording permit is required, the National Park Service will charge location fees and fees to recover its costs to administer the permit, including application fees.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording remain subject to all other laws and regulations applicable to visitors to park areas, including those requiring permits for certain activities (e.g., special events or demonstrations) and those prohibiting disturbance or other negative impacts to natural or cultural resources.

Individuals and groups conducting filming, still photography, or audio recording are subject to entrance and/or recreation fees that may apply in park areas even when a permit is not required.

For questions about when a permit may be required, the permit application process, and any associated fees, please contact olym_permits@nps.gov or write to Olympic National Park, attn: Fee Program, 600 East Park Ave, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Filming in Wilderness Areas

The National Park Service manages and protects more than 67 million acres of park lands and waters as wilderness areas. These areas have additional laws and policies to preserve their wilderness character for future generations. Filming activities in wilderness areas must follow all applicable laws and regulations that govern wilderness areas in the park, including prohibitions on structures, installations, motor vehicles, mechanical transport, motorized equipment, motorboats, or landing of aircrafts.

Special Use Permits

Special Use permits are required for special events such as weddings, ceremonies and memorials. In certain circumstances, Special Use permits may be required for still photography and First Amendment activities. See the sections on Still Photography and First Amendment activities for further guidance. Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing.

Weddings and ceremonies - Special use permits are required for events such as weddings, ceremonies, meetings or gatherings of more than five individuals. Permitted wedding and elopement ceremonies are generally small outdoor events without the use of seating, audio equipment, or elaborate setup. Normal public use of areas by other park visitors may not be prohibited. Download a Special Use Permit application to apply for a Special use permit. If you have any questions before sending your completed application, you may e-mail us or write to c/o Olympic National Park, 600 East Park Ave, Port Angeles, WA 98362

First Amendment activities - Freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are constitutional rights. However the courts have recognized that activities associated with the exercise of these rights may be reasonably regulated to protect park resources. First Amendment activities involving less than 25 people do not require a permit, but are restricted to certain areas of the park. Examples of special events that require permits when more than 25 people are involved include, but are not limited to: distribution/sale of printed matter, religious services, public demonstrations, assemblies or collecting signatures for petitions. Download the First Amendment Permit application for permits specifically related to First Amendment activities. For more information contact the park at (360)565-3092 or c/o Olympic National Park 600 East Park Avenue, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Memorial permits - A permit is required for the scattering of ashes. There is no charge for a memorial permit. You can download a Special Use Permit application, If you have any questions before sending your completed application, you may e-mail us or write to c/o Olympic National Park, 600 East Park Ave, Port Angeles, WA 98362

Miscellaneous - Other activities may require permits if there is the potential for interference with visitor use, congestion of a highly visited area, or possible impact on park resources. For any such activities, download a Special Use Permit application. If you have any questions before sending your completed application, you may e-mail us or write to c/o Olympic National Park, 600 East Park Ave, Port Angeles, WA 98362 for more detailed information and clarification.

Commercial Use Authorizations or Non-Profit Operating Under a CUA

Commercial Use Authorizations - Authorization is required before conducting any form of commercial use activity in the park. Please allow 3-4 weeks for processing. For more information and an application for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA), contact the Concessions Specialist.

Research Permits

A permit is required before conducting any research within the park. An online application process is administered nationally, but we recommend that you also contact the park's Research Coordinator for more information and to help facilitate the application process.

Lodging Reservations

A variety of overnight accommodations are available within Olympic National Park by advance reservation.

• Kalaloch Lodge
• Lake Crescent Lodge
• Log Cabin Resort
• Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

Campground Reservations

Park-operated campgrounds
Kalaloch, Hoh, Mora, Fairholme, and Staircase campgrounds are the only park-operated campgrounds that accept reservations in the summer. Reservations are accepted for the summer peak season online at recreation.gov beginning 6 months in advance. All campsites at these campgrounds are reservable during the peak season. Any unreserved or cancelled sites will be sold in person on a first-come, first-served basis. Campsites are first-come, first-served the rest of the year.

Concession-operated campgrounds
Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort RV Park & Campground offers reservations for the summer season online at recreation.gov.

Log Cabin Resort RV & Campground offers reservations by phone at 888.896.3818.

All other park campgrounds are first-come, first-served. Visit our Camping webpage for more information.

Wilderness Camping Reservations & Permits

For the most up to date information on how to obtain a Wilderness Backpacking Permit click here.