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Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout most of the Hoosier National Forest. Dispersed camping is acceptable on National Forest System lands away from developed campgrounds, nearly anywhere your camping equipment and/or vehicle does not block developed trails or road rights-of-way. No permit is required and it is not necessary to check in with the Forest Service when you camp overnight.
Where dispersed camping is NOT allowed:
- within campgrounds
- along roads (except in Forest Service designated campsites), parking areas, or day use areas within developed recreation areas
- at day use trailheads or parking areas, including boat launches
- within Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest (Orange County)
- within the Hickory Ridge Lookout Tower site (Monroe County adjacent to the Charles C. Deam Wilderness)
- within Hemlock Cliffs area (Crawford County)
All dispersed camp sites must be at least 300 feet away from trailheads and wilderness access points and at least 100 feet from trails and waterfronts in the Charles C. Deam Wilderness.
Permits and Restrictions
There is no charge for dispersed camping, however the following restrictions are required:
- Stays are limited to 14-days
- Personal property must not be left unattended overnight
- Group size is limited to 10 people in the Charles C. Deam Wilderness. In other parts of the Forest, groups larger than 75 people require a permit.
- Firewood restrictions apply throughout the Forest.
Please check for current restrictions such as fire bans before heading out to camp.
Dispersed Camping Best Practices
No amenities are provided for dispersed camping.
Practice Leave No Trace Principles:
- Bring enough water for the duration of your stay.
- Leave a clean campsite by packing out all refuse. No garbage service is provided and leaving your trash is illegal and can result in steep penalties.
- Go at least 200 feet from water sources and campsites for personal hygiene needs and bury human waste.
See a full list of rules and regulations on Hoosier National Forest for more questions and information.
Dispersed Camping Areas
A map is available for roadside designated dispersed campsites in the Pleasant Run
Unit (north end of Hoosier National Forest):
Hickory Ridge, Berry Ridge and Sundance Lake areas
Visit the Charles C. Deam Wilderness page for information on backcountry wilderness dispersed camping.
