How Late Can You Get A Wilderness Permit?

A question from Jamie this morning: Hello! We have planned to backpack the Savage Gulf area Friday-Sunday, just a small weekend trip. One of our group members has a midterm, so we will not be able to arrive until about 7:00 p.m, but we were planning on just barely going into the area to the campground beside the Savage Gulf Ranger Station on this night. Is this too late, or can we arrange to get a permit? Thanks for your help; the web site has been extremely useful.

Hi, Jamie,

The access gate to the parking area at the Savage Gulf Ranger Station is usually closed and locked at dusk. So, first thing I recommend is to call the Ranger Station 931 779-3532 and ask if they will leave the gate open until you arrive. If you don't get an answer there, call the Visitor Center HQ 931 924-2980 and ask the same.

The campsite beside the Ranger Station should be fine for the evening. First thing Saturday morning you need to complete a back country permit for your group. This should not be a problem this weekend, but the Park will be very busy as the Fall Colors begin to peak.

See the post below about water. Your group will probably need to carry some extra water. Have fun.

Cheers,

Ron Castle