Firearms on Monongahela National Forest
Shooting sports are welcome on National Forest System lands.
Both state and federal laws apply on National Forest System lands, so you also need to check on the state laws and county ordinances which may apply to the area you will be visiting. You also need to be in compliance with any general federal laws and regulations about weapons (Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives ATF, etc).
The only two regulations specific to use of weapons imposed by the Forest Service is that you cannot discharge a weapon within 150 yards of any occupied area or structure/development, within or into a cave, across or on a body of water or road, or in any manner that endangers a person. You also cannot use any tracer or incendiary ammunition. Forest Service regulations require that you also comply with all State laws regarding the use of firearms while hunting.
If you are planning on visiting a designated Wilderness Area, the Regional Forester or Forest Supervisor has the option to implement a special local order which additionally prohibits the mere possession of a firearm within that Wilderness Area. You should contact the Forest Supervisor's office to find out whether such a restriction has been imposed.
We encourage you to use designated shooting areas or ranges. However, if you choose to shoot in an undesignated area, please ensure that your shooting does not damage any facilities or natural resources, disrupt other uses, or endanger public safety, and ensure you remove any targets, wads, shells, brass and other refuse with you when you leave. Be sure your shooting target area is free of rocks, as wildfires have resulted from sparks caused by ricochets. Be responsible for your action and follow outdoor ethics, in other words always, Leave No Trace and Tread Lightly on federal lands.
It is also a good idea to contact the local Forest Service District or Forest Offices in advance of your visit to ask the same question, as they are more aware of local ranges and other opportunities, orders, issues and special conditions that may affect you.
The following links provide more information pertaining to firearms and the use/possession of them on the Monongahela National Forest, located within the State of West Virginia.
- West Virginia Division of Natural Resources
- West Virgnia State Code
- West Virginia Attorney General's Office
- "A Guide to Concealed Weapon Laws of West Virginia" published by the WV Attorney General Office's Site.
- Code of Federal Regulations governing the USDA Forest Service.
- United States Code
We hope you enjoy your visit to our National Forest.