Setting Up a Campsite: Rules and Regulations

When it comes to setting up a campsite on public land or private property, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. Whether you're looking to stay in a motorhome in a highly developed campsite or simply throwing a sleeping bag on the ground in the countryside, it's important to understand the regulations that apply. Most Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campsites require a fee for use. These fees help maintain facilities and ensure that the campsite is kept in good condition.

Generally, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, although some campgrounds accept reservations through Recreation.gov. It's important to obey all published rules specific to the camp and to check with your local municipality and county to ensure that you are allowed to open a campsite on the property and if your plans will comply with local building codes. Even if your campsite is “in the field,” it may still be subject to local zoning rules and regulations. When it comes to public land, most areas are open to scattered camping, as long as it does not conflict with other authorized uses or in areas closed to camping, or that in any way adversely affects wildlife species or natural resources.

However, camping is usually limited to 14 days within a period of 28 consecutive days. The chief, each regional forester, each forest supervisor, and each district ranger or equivalent official may issue special use authorizations, award contracts, or approve operational plans that authorize the occupation or use of a road, trail, area, river, lake, or other part of the National Forest System in accordance with the authority delegated elsewhere in this chapter or the Forest Service Manual. When it comes to private property, it's not uncommon for the owner to see the success of a campsite and decide that it would be more cost-effective to build and sell vacation homes on the land. If you're looking to open a camp on private property, it's important to meet with a local lawyer to ensure that you comply with all required rules and regulations.

When setting up a campsite on public land or private property, there are certain rules and regulations that must be followed. These include not operating or using a public address system without special use authorization; not crossing the forest with excavators and camping wherever you want; not having at least one person occupying a camping area during the first night after setting up camping equipment; not using any pesticide without permission; and not using any campsite or other area described in an order by more than the users allowed by the order. By following these rules and regulations when setting up a campsite on public land or private property, you can help protect the environment and ensure that your camp is successful. It's also important to remember that your private campsite may offer additional amenities such as pools, more privacy, or the flexibility to host group events.