US Forest Service

Learn about camping and boondocking in national forests and grasslands.

How Long Can You Camp in a National Forest?

How Long Can You Camp in a National Forest?

Updated:


Fourteen (14) days is the most popular answer to how long can you camp in a national forest. But it’s not always the correct answer.

Some forests limit you to just 5 days, while others offers as much as 30 days. Each national forest and grassland creates its own occupancy rules on how long you can camp within their boundaries. Many national forests go on to add additional rules, like when you can return to the same site, and how many days you can camp throughout the entire year.

camping in a national forest
Boondocking inside Shoshone National Forest, Wyoming

How Long Can You Camp in a National Forest?

With respect to “dispersed camping” or “boondocking”, each National Forest and National Grassland has its own maximum limits on how many days you can camp within their boundaries. Some Forests and Grasslands update these limits every couple of years, while others have left them in place for decades…

Alaska

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Chugach NF14 daysCamping, occupying, using, or leaving any personal items at any one area, campground or site on Chugach National Forest System lands for more than 14 days, during any 30-day period. Any camp relocation within the 30-day period must be at a distance of at least 10 air miles from the previous campsite.June 12, 2020Order #10-04-00-20-09
Tongass NF30 daysNo camping for more than 30 days during any 6-month period on National Forest System lands.1994Order #94-09

Alabama

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Bankhead NF14 daysDispersed camping is permitted, but no rules have been published. Per phone call with National Forests in Alabama HQ, maximum camping limit is 14 days, after you vacate, you are expected to wait 24 hours before returning to the forest.Per phone call with forest headquarters
Conecuh NF14 daysSame as above
Talladega NF14 daysSame as above
Tuskegee NF14 daysSame as above

Arkansas

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Ouachita NF30 daysYou may camp in a dispersed area for up to 30 days. After 30 days, you must move at least 5 road miles for camping in another dispersed area. Campers may not return to the same campsite within the calendar year.Ouachita NF Website
Ozark NF30 daysCamping in the general Forest area (outside developed recreation areas) shall be limited to a period not to exceed 30 consecutive days. Once the 30 day consecutive day limit has been reached, the camp must be removed for fourteen (14) days and cannot be reestablished less than one (1) mile from the original campsite. Camping in the general Forest area (outside developed recreation areas) shall not exceed a total of 90 days wtihin the calendar year.Aug 1, 2022Dec 31, 2026Order #08-10-00-22-135
St. Francis NF30 daysSame as above

Arizona

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Apache-Sitgreaves NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days in any 30-day period.May 18, 2022May 17, 2024Order #03-01-22-09
Coconino NF 14 daysCamping for more than 14 days in any 30-day period.Oct 26, 2022Oct 26, 2024Order #03-04-00-22-28
Coronado NF 14 daysCamping for more than 14 days within any 60 day period.May 23, 2023May 22, 2024Order #03-05-00-23-011
Kaibab NF 14 daysNo camping for more than14 days in any 30 day period.May 7, 2020May 6, 2024Order #03-07-22-05
Prescott NF 7 daysNo camping for more than 7 days within a 30 day period.Jan 1, 2017Dec 31, 2026Order #09-218
Tonto NF14 daysCamping for more than fourteen (14) days in a thirty-day period.Feb 19, 2022Feb 19, 2026Order #03-12-00-22-04

California

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Angeles NF7 daysCamping outside of a Forest Service developed campground for more than seven (7) consecutive days in a calendar year.Dec 16, 2022Dec 15, 2024Order # 05-01-22-09
Butte Valley NG14 daysManaged by Klamath NF. Per phone call with Klamath HQ, dispersed camping is permitted. Same rules as Klamath NF would apply. Note that Butte Valley NG is adjacent to Butte Valley Wildlife Area (run by California Department of Fish & Wildlife) which has camping facilities of its own.Jul 15, 2022Jul 15, 2024Order #22-05-01
Cleveland NF14 daysCamping outside of a Forest Service developed campground for more than 14 consecutive days in a calendar year.Jul 13, 2022Jul 12, 2024Order #02-22-11
Eldorado NF10 daysNo camping in any undeveloped location within one Ranger District for a period longer than 10 days during a calendar year.Sep 28, 2022Sep 27, 2025Order #03-22-15
Humboldt-Toiyabe NF14 daysCamping or possessing camping equipment in excess of fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period.Aug 20, 2023Aug 20, 2033Order #04-17-23-12
Inyo NF14 daysCamping within a 10 mile radius of any one undeveloped campsite for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping anywhere within the Inyo National Forest for more than 28 total days during a calendar year.Jul 3, 2023Jul 3, 2025Order #05-04-50-23-07
Klamath NF14 daysNo camping in any one location for more than 14 consecutive days. No camping within the Klamath National Forest for more than 30 days per calendar year.Jul 15, 2022Jul 15, 2024Order #22-05-01
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit14 daysCamping, except in the areas described on Exhibit A for no more than 14 days in a calendar year in total, as shown on Exhibit C.Jun 27, 2021Jun 27, 2024Order #19-21-01
Lassen NF14 daysFor more than 14 days per calendar year within a one-mile radius of any one undeveloped campsite. For more than 30 days per calendar year aggregate total outside of the developed campgrounds within the Lassen National ForestApr 11, 2022Apr 10, 2024Order #06-22-01
Los Padres NF7 daysCamping anywhere other than a developed campground, for a period longer than seven consecutive days or for more than 21 days during a calendar year.Jan 14, 2022Jan 13, 2024Order #05-07-00-22-02
Mendocino NF14 daysNo camping within a one-mile radius of the same location outside of a Developed Recreation Site for a period longer than 14 days in any 30-day period. No camping within a one-mile radius of the same location outside of a Developed Recreation Site for more than 28 cumulative days in any 12-month period.Oct 7, 2021Oct 6, 2023Order #08-21-05
Modoc NF14 daysYou may disperse camp in any one location for 14 days and you may stay a total of 30 days per year on the forest.Modoc NF Website
Plumas NF21 daysNo camping for a period longer than 21 days in total on the Plumas NF, within a calendar year.Aug 1, 2018Jul 31, 2020Order #05-11-02-18-08
Rogue River NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. No camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Jun 1, 2022May 31, 2024Order #06-10-00-22-32
San Bernardino NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days in any 30-day period.Sep 1, 2023Aug 31, 2025Order #05-12-00-23-05
Sequoia NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 consecutive days within any 30 day period anywhere on National Forest System lands within the Sequoia National Forest.Jul 11, 2023Jun 30, 2025Order #0513-23-12
Shasta-Trinity NF14 daysThe Dispersed Camping stay limits on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is 14 days in one spot, 30 days total during the calendar year beginning with the first day of occupation. Jun 2020Shasta-Trinity NF Dispersed Camping Pamphlet
Sierra NF14 daysYou may stay at one campsite for a limit of 14 days.Sierra NF Website
Siskiyou NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. No camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Jun 1, 2022May 31, 2024Order #06-10-00-22-32
Six Rivers NF14 daysDispersed camping is free of charge and is limited to 30 days per calendar year; in addition, there is a 14-consecutive-day limit at any single location. Your site must be at least one-quarter mile from developed sites.May 28, 2020Six Rivers Camping Pamphlet
Stanislaus NF21 daysNo camping in any undeveloped location wtihin one Ranger District for longer than 21 total days during a calendar yearJul 29, 2022Jul 29, 2024Order #STF-16-2022-06
Tahoe NF14 daysDispersed camping for more than 14 days in a calendar year per Ranger District.Apr 4, 2021Apr 4, 2024Order #17-21-01

Colorado

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Arapaho NF14 daysNo camping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2021Dec 31, 2024Order #R02-2020-04
Comanche NG14 daysCamping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2023Order #UFC-PSICC-2023-01
Grand Mesa NF14 daysNo camping for more than 14 consecutive days in any one location. No camping for more than 28 days, on any one National Forest, within a 60 day period. No camping within 3 road miles of a previous National Forest System camp location for more than 14 additional days.Jul 12, 2017Jul 12, 2027Order #GMUGNF-2017-08
Gunnison NF14 daysNo camping for more than 14 consecutive days in any one location. No camping for more than 28 days, on any one National Forest, within a 60 day period. No camping within 3 road miles of a previous National Forest System camp location for more than 14 additional days.Jul 12, 2017Jul 12, 2027Order #GMUGNF-2017-08
Pawnee NG14 daysNo camping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2021Dec 31, 2024Order #R02-2020-04
Pike NF14 daysCamping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2020Dec 31, 2022Order #UFC-PSICC-2023-01
Rio Grande NF14 daysCamping in the same location for more than 14 days within any continuous 30 day period.May 16, 2023Apr 30, 2028Order #02-09-00-23-01
Roosevelt NF14 daysNo camping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2021Dec 31, 2024Order #R02-2020-04
Routt NF14 daysNo camping or leaving camping equipment and personal property on, or otherwise occupying National Forest System lands for a period longer than 14 days within a 30-day period.Jun 10, 2019Jun 1, 2024Order #MBRTB-2019-167
San Isabel NF14 daysNo camping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2023Order #UFC-PSICC-2023-01
San Juan NF14 daysNo camping or leaving camping equipment at any location within three (3) air miles of any prior camping or equipment location(s) for a combined total of more than 14 consecutive days. No camping or leaving camping equipment on San Juan National Forest lands for more than 28 days within a continuous 60 day period, where not otherwise further restricted.May 13, 2019Dec 31, 2023Order #SJ-2019-04
Uncompahgre NF14 daysNo camping for more than 14 consecutive days in any one location. No camping for more than 28 days, on any one National Forest, within a 60 day period. No camping within 3 road miles of a previous National Forest System camp location for more than 14 additional days.Jul 12, 2017Jul 12, 2027Order #GMUGNF-2017-08
White River NF14 daysCamping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2023Order #UFC-WRNF-2023-01

Florida

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Apalachicola NF14 daysNo camping or maintaining a campsite in excess of 14 days within any 30 day time period, unless the campsite has been posted with different stay limits by the Forest Service.Feb 3, 2014Order #08-05-FL-13-01
Ocala NF14 daysSame as above
Osceola NF14 daysSame as above

Georgia

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Chattahoochie NF14 daysEstablishing, maintaining, or using a dispersed campsite shall be limited to a period not to exceed 14 consecutive days. Upon vacating a site, all personal property will be removed. A new campsite may not be re-established within 1 mile of the vacated campsite for a period of 7 days. Mar 14, 2022Mar 13, 2025Order #CO-08-03-127-22
Oconee NF14 daysSame as above

Idaho

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Boise NF14 daysNo camping within the same 25-mile radius for more than 14 days during any 30-day period between April 1 to August 31. No camping within the same 5-mile radius for more than 14 days during any 30-day period between September 1 to March 31.Jul 31, 2022Jul 31, 2027Order #0402-00-62
Caribou NF14 daysNo camping within the same five-mile radius for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) consecutive day period. No returning to camp in any part of the five-mile radius within 30 days after having camped in the same location or any number of locations within the same 5-mile radius for 14 days in a 30-day period.Jun 5, 2020May 1, 2030Order #04-15-131
Clearwater NF18 daysMAY 1 THROUGH OCTOBER 5 IN ALL OTHER AREAS– Camping in any one area or campsite is limited to a total of 18 days during any 45 day period.  Camps must be relocated at least 5 miles away from the original site to qualify for a new 18 day period. OCTOBER 6 THROUGH APRIL 30 IN ALL OTHER AREAS– Length of camping stay is not restricted during this period.Oct 17, 2011Order #11-05-01
Idaho Panhandle NF14 daysTHE SATURDAY PRIOR TO MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY – Camping or leaving camping equipment in any one area or campsite is limited to a total of 14 days during any 30 day period. Camping is prohibited for the remaining 16 days on lands administered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. LABOR DAY THROUGH THE SATURDAY PRIOR TO MEMORIAL DAY – Camping or leaving camping equipment in any one area or campsite is limited to a total of 14 days during any 30 day period. Camps must be relocated at least 5 miles away (road miles) from the original site to qualify for a new 14 day periodSep 10, 2009Order #F-09-001
Kootenai NF16 daysNo camping or otherwise occupying a single location on all National Forest System lands within the State of Montana for a period longer than 16 consecutive days. The term, “location” means the occupied undeveloped or developed campsite and the lands within a 5 mile radius. After leaving the location, a minimum of 7 days is required before any group of persons from that group may reoccupy the original location. Dec 9, 2014Order #R1-2015-01
Nez Perce NF18 daysCAMPING by any person or group, or the placement of camping equipment in any area excluding developed campgrounds, is restricted to 18 days use during any 45 day period.  For the purpose of this restriction, an area is defined as any given spot of ground and the surrounding land for a radius of 5 miles.  Oct 13, 2011Order #SO-01-11
Payette NF14 daysCamping within the same five-mile radius for more than 14 days in any 30 consecutive days.May 11, 2022May 31, 2027Order #0412-569
Salmon-Challis NF14 daysNo camping within the same five-mile radius for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) consecutive day period. No returning to camp in any part of the five-mile radius within 30 days after having camped in the same location or any number of locations within the same 5-mile radius for 14 days in a 30-day period.Jul 8, 2020May 1, 2030Order #04-13-20-122
Sawtooth NRA & NF10 & 16 daysOccupying a campsite, outside of a developed campground or designated dispersed camping area, at the same site within the SNRA or on any NFS land within a 30-mile radius of the same site within the SNRA, for more than 10 days during any 30-day period between May 1st and September 15th , or for more than 16 days during any 30 day period between September 16th and April 30th .Aug 3, 2020Order #414-04-134
Targhee NF14 daysNo camping within the same five-mile radius for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) consecutive day period. No returning to camp in any part of the five-mile radius within 30 days after having camped in the same location or any number of locations within the same 5-mile radius for 14 days in a 30-day period.Jun 5, 2020May 1, 2030Order #04-15-131

Illinois

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Midewin National Tallgrass PrairieCamping not allowed
Shawnee NF14 daysIt is prohibited to camp for a period in excess of 14 days within a 21 day period. No camping or leaving equipment at one location for more than 14 consecutive days with continuous or intermittent presence.Apr 7, 2021Order #09-08-21-02

Indiana

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp, DateSource
Hoosier NF14 daysNo camping within any developed campground or dispersed campsite on the Hoosier National Forest shall be limited to a period of time not to exceed 14 days in any 30 day period; or more than 30 days in a calendar year.Apr 22, 2019Order #09-12-19-14

Kansas

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Cimarron NG14 daysCamping at any location within the same 20-mile radius for more than 14 days within any continuous 30-day period.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2023Order #UFC-PSICC-2023-01

Kentucky

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Daniel Boone NF14 daysNo camping or maintaining a campsite for more than 14 consecutive days in a dispersed or non-fee area without having terminated Forest occupancy for a minimum of 10 days within a 31-day time frame.Daniel Boone NF Dispersed Camping Pamphlet

Louisiana

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Kisatchie NF30 daysCamping or the establishment of a campsite shall be limited to a period of time not to exceed 30 days in the general forest area. After the 30 day period, the campsite must be vacated for a period of 14 days.Dec 8, 2015Dec 8, 2020Order #KNF-08-06-00-15-23

Maine

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
White Mountain NF14 daysOccupancy by any individual or group or equipment in any one area within the boundaries of the White Mountain National Forest, is limited to 14 days during any 30 day period.April 26, 2019Order #R9-22-19-28

Michigan

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Hiawatha NF16 daysNo camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to: tents, camper trailers and tarps) in the same location for longer than sixteen (16) consecutive days. After sixteen days, the camp and equipment must be moved off of Forest Service land to another location that is at least five miles away, for an additional stay, not to exceed sixteen (16) days.Jun 3, 2016Order #R910-16-10
Huron NF16 daysNo occupying the same location for more than sixteen (16) consecutive days within a 30 day period.  After this period the camping equipment and all persons must move off the National Forest for two weeks.Mar 7, 2018Order #R904-18-02
Manistee NF16 daysSame as above
Ottawa NF16 daysNo camping or leaving camping equipment (such as, but not limited to: tents, camper trailers and tarps) in the same location for longer than sixteen (16) consecutive days. After sixteen days, the camp and equipment must be moved off of Forest Service land to another location that is at least five miles away, for an additional stay, not to exceed sixteen (16) days.Mar 18, 2021Order #R907-21-04

Minnesota

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Chippewa NF14 daysNo official rule published. Per phone call with Chippewa HQ, they enforce a 14 day limit with no further details.Per phone call with forest headquarters
Superior NF14 daysNo camping for a period longer than 14 consecutive days at a single location, or longer than 30 consecutive days anywhere on National Forest lands.Sep 10, 2004Order #R909-04-06

Missouri

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Mark Twain NF14 daysDispersed camping (outside developed recreation areas) shall not exceed 14 days on the Mark Twain National Forest. Once the 14-consecutive day limit has been reached, the camp cannot be reestablished within one mile from the preceding location. You cannot establish a campsite or be a member of a camping party in excess of 14 days within a 21-day period.Sep 18, 2017Order #R9-05-17-09

Mississippi

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Bienville NF30 daysNo camping for a period longer than thirty (30) consecutive days on National Forest System lands, with the exception of Developed Recreation Areas.Sep 18, 2017Order #2007-00-1
De Soto NF30 daysSame as above
Delta NF30 daysSame as above
Holly Springs NF30 daysSame as above
Homochitto NF30 daysSame as above
Tombigbee NF30 daysSame as above

Montana

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF16 daysForest-wide stay limit: Camping in an area, campsite, or developed campground is limited to 16 accumulated days within any 30 day period.Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF Website
Bitteroot NF16 daysNo camping in any one area or campground or at any one site on Bitteroot National Forest System lands for more than 16 accumulated days, during any 30 day period. Any camp relocation within 30-day period must be at a distance of at least 5 air miles from the previous campsite. No camping for more than 45 accumulated days on the Bitteroot National Forest within the same calendar year.Aug 3, 2012Order #17-Bitt-48
Custer NF16 daysCamping is limited to 16 days in any one campground or location (14-day limit in the South Dakota units of the Sioux District)May 2022Custer NF Camp & Picnic Guide
Flathead NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 16 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01
Gallatin NF16 daysCamping is limited to 16 days in any one campground or location (14-day limit in the South Dakota units of the Sioux District)May 2022Custer NF Camp & Picnic Guide
Helena NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 16 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01
Kootenai NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 16 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01
Lewis & Clark NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 16 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01
Lolo NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 16 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01

North Carolina

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Croatan NF14 daysMaximum length of stay is 14 days within a 30-day period.National Forests of North Carolina website
Nantahala NF14 daysSame as above
Pisgah NF14 daysSame as above
Uwharrie NF14 daysSame as above

North Dakota

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Cedar River NG14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 14 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 28 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01
Little Missouri NG14 daysSame as above
Sheyenne NG14 daysSame as above

Nebraska

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Nebraska NF14 daysFrom May through November 15 of each year, no person, group or organization shall camp at, use, store equipment at or otherwise occupy any single location for a period of 14 consecutive days within any 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, campers must leave the “District” (where the occupancy of stay is occurring) for 14 days. Once the 14 day limit of stay has been reached, use shall not occur again until 14 days have lapsed from the last day of use. “District” is defined as Fort Pierre Ranger District, Wall Ranger District, Fall River Ranger District, Pine Ridge Ranger District, and Bessey Ranger District.Oct 30, 2019Oct 30, 2024Order #NNFG 2019-20
Oglala NG14 daysSame as above
Samuel R. McKelvie NF14 daysSame as above

New Hampshire

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
White Mountain NF14 daysOccupancy by any individual or group or equipment in any one area within the boundaries of the White Mountain National Forest, is limited to 14 days during any 30 day period.Apr 26, 2019Order #9-22-19-28

New Mexico

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Carson NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 31, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-02-00-2023-03
Cibola NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03
Coronado NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days within any 60 day period.May 23, 2023May 22, 2024Order #03-05-00-23-011
Gila NF14 daysCamping for a period longer than 14 days within any consecutive 30-day period.May 19, 2023May 18, 2025Order #03-06-00-23-004
Kiowa NG14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03
Lincoln NF30 daysCamping within the boundaries of the Lincoln National Forest for a period exceeding 30 days within a 45 day period except to exclude the developed sites listed above in section (1).Apr 7, 1996Order #08-99
Santa Fe NF14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.Jun 10, 2021Dec 31, 2026Order #10-494

Nevada

ForestLimitsOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Humboldt-Toiyabe NF14 daysCamping or possessing camping equipment in excess of fourteen
(14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period.
Aug 20, 2023Aug 20, 2033Order #04-17-23-12
Inyo NF14 daysCamping within a 10 mile radius of any one undeveloped campsite for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping anywhere within the Inyo National Forest for more than 28 total days during a calendar year.Jul 3, 2023Jul 3, 2025Order #05-04-50-23-07
Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit14 daysCamping, except in the areas described on Exhibit A for no more than 14 days in a calendar year in total, as shown on Exhibit C.Jun 27, 2021Jun 27, 2024Order #19-21-01

New York

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Finger Lakes NF14 daysCamping for period longer than 14 days in any 30 day period.Jun 25, 2014Order #2014-01

Ohio

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Wayne NF14 daysCamping or the establishment of a campsite within the Wayne National Forest shall be limited to period of time not exceed 14 days in any 30 day time period.Oct 1, 2018Sep 30, 2023Order #WNF-14-01-2018

Oklahoma

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Black Kettle NG14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 1, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03
Ouachita NF30 daysYou may camp in a dispersed area for up to 30 days. After 30 days, you must move at least 5 road miles for camping in another dispersed area. Campers may not return to the same campsite within the calendar year.Ouachita NF Website
Rita Blanca NG14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03

Oregon

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Columbia River Gorge NSA14 daysCamping in a single location for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping at any location for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Sep 30, 2022Sep 30, 2024Order #06-22-01-22-10
Crooked River NG14 daysMaximum length of stay is 14 daysCrooked River NG Camping Pamphlet
Deschutes NF14 daysNo official rule published. Because Deschutes NF is managed co-jointly with Ochoco NF, we assume the rules from Ochoco NF also apply.Managed co-jointly with Ochoco NF
Fremont NF14 daysNo official rule published. Per phone call with Fremont-Winema HQ, they enforce a 14 day limit, return after 4 daysPer phone call with forest headquarters
Malheur NF14 daysCamping on the Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur National Forests for a period longer than 14 days within any 30-day period.Jul 20, 2023Jul 20, 2026Order #06-04-00-23-08
Mount Hood NF14 daysCamping in a single location for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping at any location for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Sep 30, 2022Sep 30, 2024Order #06-06-00-22-04
Ochoco NF14 daysMaximum length of stay is 14 daysOchoco NF Camping Rules Pamphlet
Rogue River NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. No camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Jun 1, 2022May 31, 2024Order #06-10-00-22-32
Siskiyou NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. No camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Jun 1, 2022May 31, 2024Order #06-10-00-22-32
Siuslaw NF14 daysCamping outside of developed campgrounds is limited to no more than 14 days during any 60 consecutive day period.May 2, 2023May 2, 2025Order #06-12-00-23-02
Umatilla NF14 daysCamping on the Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur National Forests for a period longer than 14 days within any 30-day period.Jul 20, 2023Jul 20, 2026Order #06-14-00-23-06
Umpqua NF14 daysCamping in a single location for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Aug 28, 2022Aug 28, 2024Order #06-15-00-22-465
Wallowa-Whitman NF14 daysCamping on the Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur National Forests for a period longer than 14 days within any 30-day period.Jul 20, 2023Jul 20, 2026Order #06-16-00-23-07
Willamette NF14 daysCamping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any locations on the Willamette National Forest described in this order, overnight, for a period longer than 14 calendar days, in a 30-day period. Occupant must move off the Forest after 14 days; return to the Forest must not occur before 30 days have passed. Camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any locations on the Willamette National Forest described in this order, overnight, for more than 50 calendar days total within a 365-day period.Apr 4, 2022Apr 4, 2024Order #06-18-00-22-03
Winema NF14 daysNo official rule published. Per phone call with Fremont-Winema HQ, they enforce a 14 day limit, return after 4 daysPer phone call with forest headquarters

Pennsylvania

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Allegheny NF14 daysNo camping or otherwise occupying Allegheny National Forest lands by any individual(s) for a period longer than fourteen days within a thirty day period.May 16, 2017Order #17-001

South Carolina

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Francis Marion NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite in excess of 14 days within any 30-day time period.Jun 1, 2019Jun 1, 2024Order #FM-19-01
Sumter NF14 daysSame as above

South Dakota

ForestLimitOfficial Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Black Hills NF14 daysNo camping in areas other than developed campgrounds within the Black Hills National Forest longer than a total of (14) days (including portions of days) in any 60 day period.Dec 9, 1998Order #BHNF-046-98
Buffalo Gap NG14 daysFrom May through November 15 of each year, no person, group, or organization shall camp at, use, store equipment at or otherwise occupy any single location for a period of more than 14 consecutive days within an 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, campers must leave the “District” (where the occupancy of stay is occurring) for 14 days. Once the 14 day limit of stay has been reached, use shall not occur again until 14 days have lapsed from the last day of use. “District” is defined as Fort Pierre Ranger District, Wall Ranger District, Fall River Ranger District, Pine Ridge Ranger District, and Bessey Ranger District.Oct 30, 2019Oct 30, 2024Order #NNFG-2019-20
Fort Pierre NG14 daysFrom May through November 15 of each year, no person, group, or organization shall camp at, use, store equipment at or otherwise occupy any single location for a period of more than 14 consecutive days within an 28 day period. After the 14th day of occupation, campers must leave the “District” (where the occupancy of stay is occurring) for 14 days. Once the 14 day limit of stay has been reached, use shall not occur again until 14 days have lapsed from the last day of use. “District” is defined as Fort Pierre Ranger District, Wall Ranger District, Fall River Ranger District, Pine Ridge Ranger District, and Bessey Ranger District.Oct 30, 2019Oct 30, 2024Order #NNFG-2019-20
Grand River NG14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single site for over 14 consecutive days within a calendar year. Camping or otherwise occupying any number of sites over 28 cumulative days within a calendar year.Jan 1, 2023Dec 31, 2025Order #R1-2023-01

Tennessee

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Cherokee NF14 days14 days in developed and dispersed areas. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. After the 14th day, the camper must leave that area/campground for minimum of seven days before returning for another stay. In dispersed recreation areas after 14 consecutive days, the camper must move at least one mile for a minimum of seven days before returning for another stay.May 23, 2016Order #08-04-387

Texas

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Angelina NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104
Caddo NG14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104
Davy Crockett NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104
LBJ NG14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104
McLellan Creek NG14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03
Rita Blanca NG14 daysCamping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period.May 20, 2023Dec 31, 2027Order #03-03-00-23-03
Sabine NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104
Sam Houston NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30 day period.Sep 23, 2022Dec 31, 2024Order #08-13-00-20-104

Utah

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Ashley NF16 daysCamping in the same location or within five road miles of the same location for more than 16 consecutive days in a 30 day period.Apr 22, 2021Apr 22, 2026Order #0401-21-007
Dixie NF16 daysCamping within 10 miles of the same location for more than 16 consecutive days, or for more than 16 days in a 60 day time period.May 6, 2020May 15, 2025Order #0407-20-04
Fishlake NF16 daysCamping in the same location, or within 5 miles of the same location, for more than 16 consecutive days in any 30 day period.Jan 27, 2020Jan 1, 2025Order #0408-20-01
Manti-La Sal NF14 daysPersons may camp within designated campgrounds or on undeveloped sites not closed to camping within the Forests for a period of not more than 14 days within any period of 28 consecutive days. The 14 day limit may be used either through a number of separate visits or through 14 days of continuous occupation during the 18 day period. Campers must relocate to another site 14th day of occupation. This new site must be at least ten miles, in a straight line, away from the previous location. Once the 14 day camping limit has been reached in a given site, use shall not occur again until at least 14 days have elapsed from the last day of use.Apr 1, 2003Order #04-10-013
Uinta-Wasatch-Cache NF14 daysNo person, tent, camper, trailer, or other type of mobile home may occupy any general undeveloped area of National Forest Lands for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) day consecutive period.Jul 27, 2022Jul 27, 2025Order #04-19-22-533

Virginia

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
George Washington NF14 daysCamping or maintaining a campsite for a period of time exceeding 14 days in any 30-day period.Aug 30, 2023Aug 30, 2028Order #08-08-00-23-3
Jefferson NF14 daysSame as above

Vermont

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Green Mountain NF14 daysCamping for a period longer than 14 days in any 30 day period.Apr 25, 2010Order #2010-03

Washington

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Colville NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Occupant must move off the Forest after 14 consecutive days and return to the Forest must not occur before 30 days have passed. Camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.May 19, 2023May 18, 2025Order #06-21-00-23-02
Gifford Pinchot NF14 daysCamping in a single location for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Camping at any location for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.Sep 30, 2022Sep 30, 2024Order #06-03-00-22-02
Idaho Panhandle NF14 daysTHE SATURDAY PRIOR TO MEMORIAL DAY THROUGH LABOR DAY – Camping or leaving camping equipment in any one area or campsite is limited to a total of 14 days during any 30 day period. Camping is prohibited for the remaining 16 days on lands administered by the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. LABOR DAY THROUGH THE SATURDAY PRIOR TO MEMORIAL DAY – Camping or leaving camping equipment in any one area or campsite is limited to a total of 14 days during any 30 day period. Camps must be relocated at least 5 miles away (road miles) from the original site to qualify for a new 14 day periodSep 10, 2009Order #F-09-001
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie NF14 daysCamping or residing on any individual Ranger District in excess of 14 days during any 30 day period.Mar 11, 2005Order #06-05-FO-05-12
Okanogan NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Occupant must move off the Forest after 14 consecutive days and return to the Forest must not occur before 30 days have passed. Camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.May 19, 2023May 18, 2025Order #06-17-00-23-04
Olympic NF21 daysCamping for a total of 21 days per calendar year on National Forest System lands.May 24, 2022May 24, 2024Order #06-09-22-02
Umatilla NF14 daysCamping on the Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur National Forests for a period longer than 14 days within any 30-day period.Jul 20, 2023Jul 20, 2026Order #06-14-00-23-06
Wenatchee NF14 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location (including leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies) for a period longer than 14 consecutive days. Occupant must move off the Forest after 14 consecutive days and return to the Forest must not occur before 30 days have passed. Camping, occupying, or otherwise leaving camping equipment and/or related supplies at any location on all national Forest lands described in this order for more than 28 days total during a calendar year.May 19, 2023May 18, 2025Order #06-17-00-23-04

Wisconsin

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Chequamegon NF21 daysCamping on any National Forest System lands for longer than 21 consecutive days is prohibitedJun 2009Chequamegon & Nicolet NF Website
Nicolet NF21 daysSame as above

West Virginia

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Monongahela NF14 daysCamping outside developed campgrounds at any one campsite in excess of fourteen (14) cumulative days within a 28-day period, then relocating the camp within five (5) road miles of the site just occupied without a waiting period of three weeks (21 days)Mar 23, 2012Order #09-21-12-01

Wyoming

ForestLimitOriginal Rule TextEff. DateExp. DateSource
Ashley NF16 daysCamping in the same location or within five road miles of the same location for more than 16 consecutive days in a 30 day period.Apr 22, 2021Apr 22, 2026Order #0401-21-007
Bighorn NF14 daysCamping in the Bighorn National Forest for more than 14 days within a 28 day period without moving all equipment and personal property a minimum of 5 road miles after the 14th day.May 22, 2023Dec 31, 2023Order #02-02-23-01
Black Hills NF14 daysNo camping in areas other than developed campgrounds within the Black Hills National Forest longer than a total of (14) days (including portions of days) in any 60 day period.Dec 9, 1998Order #BHNF-046-98
Bridger-Teton NF (General)16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location for a period longer than 16 consecutive days. The term “location” means the occupied undeveloped campsite and the lands within a five mile radius of the campsite. After leaving a location, a minimum of seven days is required before any group of person(s) from that group may reoccupy their original location. More restrictive stay limits may apply in some areas, check with the local district office.Apr 15, 2009Order #GYCC-6
Bridger-Teton NF, (Blackrock Ranger District)5 daysCamping or otherwise occupying Toppings, Spread Creek, Pacific Creek, and Colter Dump dispersed camping areas for longer than five (5) days within a 30 day period between May 1 and Labor Day.Oct 18, 2019Apr 30, 2029Order #04-03-313
Bridger-Teton NF, (Jackson Ranger District)5 daysCamping in any location within the Jackson ranger District for a period longer than five (5) days within a 30 day period May 1 and Labor Day.Oct 18, 2019Apr 30, 2029Order #04-03-313
Caribou NF14 daysNo camping within the same five-mile radius for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) consecutive day period. No returning to camp in any part of the five-mile radius within 30 days after having camped in the same location or any number of locations within the same 5-mile radius for 14 days in a 30-day period.Jun 5, 2020May 1, 2023Order #04-15-131
Medicine Bow NF16 daysPersons or organizations may not camp, store equipment at, or otherwise occupy any single location in an non-developed dispersed campsite more than 16 days, within any period of 30 consecutive days. After 16 days the persons and all camp equipment, gear, and supplies must be moved at least 3 miles in distance from the previous location if the wish to re-establish a campsite on National Forest System lands.

Camping in a dispersed area more than once during any 30 day period.

No person or associated group may use the same campsite that they have vacated within the 30-day period. Once vacated, regardless if camped at a site less than 16 day maximum period, a person or associated group, cannot return to the same campsite within a 30 day period from the date of their last night of camping.
Sep 13, 2013Order #MBNF-2013-29
Shoshone NF16 daysCamping or otherwise occupying a single location for a period exceeding sixteen (16) consecutive days. The term “location” means the occupied area or campsite and the lands within a five mile radius of that occupied area or campsite. After leaving a location, a minimum of seven (7) days must elapse before any person or group, may re-occupy their original location.Mar 12, 1998Order #98-001
Targhee NF14 daysNo camping within the same five-mile radius for more than fourteen (14) days in any thirty (30) consecutive day period. No returning to camp in any part of the five-mile radius within 30 days after having camped in the same location or any number of locations within the same 5-mile radius for 14 days in a 30-day period.Jun 5, 2020May 1, 2030Order #04-15-131
Thunder Basin NG16 daysOn the Thunder Basin National Grassland, the stay limit is 16 days in a 30-day period while dispersed camping.Thunder Basin NG Website
  • Many forests have not defined an Expiration Date, opting to let the original rule continue indefinitely.
  • The majority of national forests and grasslands enforce a 14-day limit.
  • Some forests limit stay to as little as 5 days, while other limit up to 30 days.
  • Some forests are specific about enforcing these limits per stay, while others are vague on enforcing limits per stay or per year
  • Some forests specify how many days you must wait before returning to the same site
  • Some forests specific how far in miles you must relocate before returning to the same site

Understanding Forest Orders

Each National Forest and Grassland publishes “Forest Orders” which have the power of law. These are issued by the forest supervisor to enact rules. Each limit on camping stay is defined in a Forest Order.

How Many Days Do I Have to Wait Before I Can Camp at the Same Site Again?

Some Forests and Grasslands will require you to wait anywhere from 1 day to as many as 14 days before you can reestablish your camp at a site you previously used. But, many other Forests and Grasslands don’t specify this at all.

In many cases, forest rangers rarely enforce camping limits. They are usually more concerned about campfires, tree cutting, off-road vehicles, and illegal hunting. Campers who exceed their stay are usually the least of their concerns. In most cases, they only get involved when someone else complains.

Is It Illegal to Live in a National Forest?

Yes, and no.

If you are a full time camper, it is illegal to use a National Forest or Grassland as a permanent residence.

However, you are free to relocate your camp and move to another area of the same Forest, or move to another Forest or Grassland, to continue camping. In that sense, it is possible, and legal, to live full time in national forests and grasslands. Read more about this on, “Is it Illegal to Live in a National Forest?

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