Camp Curtis — Mount Rainier National Park

High-elevation backcountry camping defines the experience at Camp Curtis, positioned at 10,188 feet on Mount Rainier's northeastern slopes. This National Park Service site requires mountaineering permits and serves primarily as a staging area for climbers attempting the Liberty Ridge route. The camp sits on rocky terrain with minimal infrastructure, demanding that visitors bring all necessary gear and supplies. Weather conditions change rapidly at this altitude, with snow possible year-round and temperatures dropping well below freezing even in summer months. Access requires technical climbing skills and proper equipment. Climbers seeking lower-elevation alternatives can explore places to camp around Paradise for less demanding overnight options.