Long-term camping limited in state forests

[HD]

News Releases
Long-term camping limited in state forests
(Released September 30, 2010)


With small game hunting in progress and firearms deer season approaching, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reminds forest users of regulations on long-term camping in state forests. State rules limit the time a party can camp in one spot and require that camps are occupied.

During much of year (second Sunday in September through the first Saturday in May) long-term or dispersed camping is limited to 21 days in any one section, township, and range; 14 days in the summer months. If the camp location is moved during the calendar year, it must move at least 15 miles from the previous camp.

In addition, dispersed camps set up on forest lands must be occupied by a responsible person of the camping party during the time the equipment is left on state land. If a tent or other camping structure like a camper is unoccupied for more than 14 days, a forest officer is required to remove it.

“The reason for the rules is that people will set up a camp for several weeks, often times not using it for long periods of time, effectively preventing others from using or hunting in that area,” said Dave Thomas, DNR northwest regional forest manager.

Another important reason for rules is that some forest users leave debris and other items that need to be cleaned up and removed when they decide to abandon the campsite.

To prevent the spread of forest pests, only firewood purchased from a DNR-approved vendor may be brought onto any DNR-administered lands. The receipt supplied by the approved vendor must be retained as proof of purchase. Those camping on state forest land outside of a designated campground may gather dead wood on the ground for campfire use onsite. Visitors are prohibited from scavenging dead wood if camping in designated campgrounds.

The DNR urges hunters to follow dispersed camping rules, follow firewood restrictions, use state forests wisely and allow others the same opportunity.