Tower Backcountry Office

Managing agency

National Park Service

Stop by the backcountry office to purchase: fishing permits, interagency passes, overnight backcountry camping permits, and non-fee horseback day riding permits. Our experienced staff can also help you with trail, hiking, and horseback riding information. Operating Dates Typically open daily from early-June through mid-September, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. See the website for current season dates. Hours and dates are subject to change. Overnight Backcountry Camping Permits Permits are required year-round for all overnight stays in Yellowstone's backcountry. A backcountry permit allows the permit holder and group members to camp in a designated backcountry location. Permits are not required for day hiking. Backcountry Camping Fees Recreation fee: $10 reservation fee + $5 per person per night. Fees apply to all ages. The recreation fee is charged year-round, whether secured through Recreation.gov or in-person at a backcountry office. Backcountry Camping Reservations Backcountry camping reservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or in-person at one of the park's backcountry offices. Reservations must be converted into a permit, in person at a backcountry office no more than two days before the trip start date. For help during non-peak season, call the Central Backcountry Office at 307-344-2160. Detailed information on advanced reservations is available online. Boats & Float Tubes Boat Permits and Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Inspections are required for all boats and float tubes. Boating is not allowed on Yellowstone's rivers (this includes float tubes). Boat permits (motorized, non-motorized, and float tubes) can be acquired at the Lewis Lake Ranger Station, Grant Ranger Station, and Bridge Bay Ranger Station. Float tube permits are also available at the Bechler Ranger Station, Snake River Ranger Station, West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center, Mammoth Backcountry office (Located in the Albright Visitor Center), and Northeast Entrance Station.