Thursday, July 10, 2014

Dispersed Camping in Hoosier National Forest

There are dispersed sites throughout the Hoosier National Forest. Primitive or roadside camping is allowed on National Forest land away from developed campgrounds, and anywhere your camping equipment and or vehicle does not block developed trails or road rights-of-way. Roadside camping should be done at established sites if any are provided but must stay within 125 feet of the road. There are not maps for where these sites are located, but if you drive most Forest roads, you are likely to see them in the more popular areas of the Forest.

It is not necessary to check in with the Forest Service when you camp overnight, but for safety concerns I would make sure that someone is aware of where you plan to camp as well as the activities you plan to do.

Camping is NOT allowed within designated special areas, at day use trailheads including Grubb Ridge and Blackwell Pond, or the Hickory Ridge Fire Tower site. Camping is also not allowed within 300 feet of trailheads. The exceptions are Hemlock Cliffs and Buzzard Roost, and the horse camps where camping is allowed.

Parking is prohibited on Tower Ridge Road except at designated trailheads. Otherwise vehicles can be parked within one vehicle length or within a specified distance up to 30 feet of a designated road.

Make sure you bring enough water for the duration of your stay. Leave a clean campsite by packing out all your refuse. No garbage service is provided and leaving your trash is illegal and can result in steep penalties.

There is no charge for primitive camping, although a 14-day limitation is in effect. If you set up camp, personal property must not be left unattended overnight. In the Charles C. Deam Wilderness, group size is limited to 10 people. In other parts of the Forest, groups larger than 75 people require a permit.

Bringing in un-certified firewood is prohibited. You should check for current restrictions such as fire bans before heading out to camp and please practice Leave No Trace Principles.



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