Permits & Reservations

Special Use Permits

Special Use Permits are authorizations from the National Park Service that are required prior to certain activities. Gatherings and commercial activities in national parks often require a special use permit. Permits ensure the protection of the park's natural and cultural resources, as well as minimize potential conflicts between park visitors and attendees of the permit activity.
Examples of activities that would require a written authorization from the park in the form of a special use permit include (but are not limited to) weddings, first-amendment demonstration activities, commerical filming and photography, sporting races, and group activities that expect 20+ individuals.

An application for a Special Use Permit must be completed and sent to the park's Permit Coordinator. All applications must be accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee of $50.00 in the form of a personal check or money order made payable to the National Park Service.

If you have any questions about Special Use Permits at Horseshoe Bend NMP, please contact Stacy Speas, Special Use Permit Coordinator:
[e-mail]
256-234-7111

Reservations

Field trips and organized group tours do not require a Special Use Permit. However, we do ask that you contact us and make a reservation. Ranger led tours and living history demonstrations may be available for groups. We ask that you provide at least a two-week notice to schedule a program. Please call us at 256-234-7111 and be prepared to provide your group name, group size, requested date, and time frame of your visit.

You can also check out our For Teachers section if you are planning an onsite visit for students, scouts, and similar youth groups.

Picnic shelters at Horseshoe Bend NMP are available near the Visitor Center on a first come, first served basis. Reservations are not accepted. Picnic tables are also located at the Highway 49 Boat Ramp at Miller Bridge.