Camping on NF

[Cornbread]

In National Forest or BLM land, can you just pull over and camp on the side of the road, or even go into the forest a quarter mile and set up camp? What about fires, of there aren't fire bans in place?

 

[rwc101]

Depends on the specific area. Read the regulations for the specific NF or BLM area you have in mind and call their office if you have any doubt. Many fire restrictions are seasonal/dependent on current conditions.

 

[drexal]

In National Forest or BLM land, can you just pull over and camp on the side of the road, or even go into the forest a quarter mile and set up camp? What about fires, of there aren't fire bans in place?

Go to the NF or BLM website and search for dispersed camping. It'll basically tell you it's allowed in most cases. It's always good to check for the specific area you're going. I've spent many of trips back country camping on NF land.

 

[MarvB]

Most allow it (unimproved areas) but have rules regarding vehicle access, handling of waste, length of stay, and nearly always about fires.

 

[kwyeewyk]

or even go into the forest a quarter mile and set up camp

Definitely can't drive that far off the road to camp, you'd be hiking to camp in that far. Check your specific area but I think usually you need to keep your vehicle within about 100 feet of the main road to park/camp.

 

[bisblue]

As some have said, just call the office they answer those questions every day. Each Forest is different especially closer to large metro areas.

When in doubt use the golden rule and leave it better than you found it. If you didn't bring firewood don't just start chopping a tree, if there isn't a pull out, don't drive over the vegetation to create one.... To be honest unless I have a bunch of friends on a trip that's really mellow, I usually don't even make a fire.

Best of luck

 

[Straight Arrow]

In National Forest or BLM land, can you just pull over and camp on the side of the road, or even go into the forest a quarter mile and set up camp? What about fires, of there aren't fire bans in place?

Get a map. Read the regulations. Call the USFS or BLM regional office. The information is readily available and does vary area to area.

Do not rely on internet forum chat information.

 

[hank4elk]

Been doing it for many years and never had problem outside of raging fires or conditions for such an event.
There's always a turnout....

 

[Salmonchaser]

We were just boondocking in an area with great camping west of Las Vegas. Just found a flat spot off the edge of the road, Fires were permitted, but not within a mile of homes or other structures. Took Catherine about seven minutes to figure out the regulations for that area.

 

[nrpate05]

In general you can camp most anywhere in the backcountry. If car camping, you usually have to use a designated campsite but not all the time. You certainly can't drive off the road that far to make camp. Fires are generally allowed unless there is a specific ban. Can be different from area to area. I'd check with the local rangers office before you go.

 

[Cornbread]

Thanks to all that responded to my questions. I'll follow up with the forestry people. Greatly appreciated to all.

 

[2rocky]

The information for each individual National Forest will be on a webpage like This: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/fishlake/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5121831

 

[Cornbread]

The information for each individual National Forest will be on a webpage like This: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/fishlake/recreation/?cid=stelprdb5121831

Thanks so much. I looked the other day, but did not find this page, so greatly appreciated. I'll call the forest service tomorrow.

 

[44hunter45]

Thanks so much. I looked the other day, but did not find this page, so greatly appreciated. I'll call the forest service tomorrow.

Google is your friend. type XXXXXX National Forest and you should see a USDA.GOV site in the hits.

 

[Cornbread]

Called the forest service, and the young guy that answered was very helpful. Answered all my questions.