Why openings appear after sellout
Visitors change plans, release extra nights, or cancel permits. When that happens, Recreation.gov can show inventory again for a narrow date window.
Cancellation guide
How Recreation.gov cancellations reopen trips
A full calendar does not always mean the trip is impossible. Campgrounds and permits can reappear when another visitor cancels, changes dates, or releases inventory.
Cancellations can reopen limited campground and permit inventory
Alerts work best when your date window is realistic
New users can start the first scan free
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 the campground or permit you are watching
Cancellation alert guide
How this helps with booked-out trips
Why manual checking is hard
Openings can be brief, and checking repeatedly is easy to forget. A focused scan keeps watching the campground or permit target while you make backup plans.
What to do after an alert
FirstCampsite sends the signal when a matching opening appears. You still complete the reservation directly on Recreation.gov.
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
Does a cancellation alert guarantee a reservation?
No. It helps you notice a matching opening faster, but the campsite or permit is not held.
What should I scan first?
Start with the campground or permit you would book immediately if it reopened for your date window.