Watch before your plan expires
A scan is most useful while you still have time to travel. Keep it active until your end date no longer matters, then pause or archive it.
Camping cancellation timing
When campsite cancellations are worth watching
Cancellations can happen at any time, but alerts are most useful when the campground is popular, your dates are still possible, and you are ready to book quickly.
Best for campgrounds you would book immediately
Useful when dates are close but still worth taking
Works well with separate backup scans
First scan free
Build a campsite alert
Pick a place and dates. We watch for cancellations.
Need a permit alert? Supported permit results are labeled in search. See the current permit list. Don't see your campsite or permit? .
Try your first-choice campground
Cancellation alert guide
How this helps with booked-out trips
Use backup scans intentionally
If two nearby campgrounds would both work, create separate scans so each alert clearly matches a plan you can act on.
React quickly
A cancellation alert is a fast signal, not a hold. When an opening appears, go to Recreation.gov and complete the booking there.
FirstCampsite activity
Results from real campsite and permit scans
Public totals are calculated from aggregate scan records and omit user identities, contact information, and private trip dates.
Total scan requests
47
Targets requested
25
Successful scans
20
Active now
4
Common questions
Should I make a broad park-wide scan?
A broad search can help you explore, but active scans are usually most useful when they focus on a real campground or permit target.
Should I keep scanning after the start date?
Yes, if the scan date window still contains days you would use. The scan should only be considered missed after the end date has passed.