Camping

The Black Mountain Backpack Camp at Monte Bello Open Space Preserve is the only campsite on Midpen lands.

The campground is a 1.5-mile hike from the Monte Bello Parking Area and includes a 500-foot uphill climb. Four single campsites and one group site are available for one- or two-night stays throughout the year.

A permit is required, and the fee is $2 per night per camper payable by an online invoice emailed to you once the application is received and space is confirmed.

Overnight parking is only allowed in the main Monte Bello Parking Area at 4301 Page Mill Road, Palo Alto, 94022, and is BY PERMIT ONLY.
The Parking Permit section from the main Permit document must be placed on the dashboard of the vehicle(s). Failure to display the parking permit may result in a parking citation.
Campers must arrive at campsite after 2 p.m. and BEFORE SUNSET, remaining in the campground until SUNRISE. The surrounding preserve area is closed a half-hour after sunset.
Visitors must vacate campsite by noon.
Camping is in the designated campsite only.
There are four campsites that allow up to four people each and one group campsite that allows up to 24 people. (Maximum 40 people for entire campground.)
Chemical toilets and water for washing are provided.
Water is non-potable; campers must bring a water purifier, carry in their own drinking water or boil before using.
Store your food in the storage lockers provided at each campsite; wildlife is common in this preserve.
There are no trash cans at the campground, and everything you carry in, you must carry out.
Stay on designated trails.
Bicyclists must wear a helmet
The following are prohibited:
- NO CAMPFIRES. Wood-burning and charcoal fires are prohibited. Gas-powered camp stoves may be used in designated areas only.
  - If the National Weather service declares a Red Flag Wire Warning, ALL stoves will be prohibited. Permittees will be contacted in advance.
- No dogs
- No radios or loud activities
- No firearms or weapons of any kind
No one under 18 years of age may camp unless:
- They are accompanied by a parent guardian
- They are part of a group supervised by at least one adult responsible for 10 or fewer juveniles
- The juvenile is an emancipated minor
To report an emergency, please call 911 or 24-hour ranger dispatch: (650) 968-4411
Please respect all private property.

Reservation Tips

Please check our campsite calendar BEFORE submitting a permit application.
The calendar does NOT display real-time availability and a open date does NOT guarantee a permit. Reservations are issued on a first come, first served basis.
Generally, applications should be submitted at least one week in advance.

Check our campsite calendar

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Camping

Reservation Tips

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Camping

Important Camping Information

Reservation Tips

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