Here's the press release from the U.S. Forest Service:

NEBO, N.C. -- The U.S. Forest Service Grandfather Ranger District reminds visitors that there are a limited number of permitted users allowed for weekend camping in the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area of Pisgah National Forest. A total of 50 users per night can be permitted for weekend camping.

A permit is required for camping on weekends (Friday and Saturday) and on holidays from May 1 through October 31. Permits are not required for Sunday night camping, except when the following Monday is a holiday. No permit is needed for weekday camping. All campers are limited to a two-night and three-day stay at Linville Gorge. Day use permits are not required.

Forest staff will be in the gorge throughout the summer checking for compliance with permit requirements.

Permits are issued from the district ranger's office by mail or in person. District offices can permit 35 users per night by reservation or walk-in. For permits, contact Grandfather Ranger District, 109 East Lawing Drive, Nebo, N.C. 28761, phone 828-652-2144.

The Linville Gorge Information Cabin can permit fifteen (15) users per night by walk-in only. The information cabin is located just off of Kistler Memorial Highway.