Dispersed Camping
Most of the Carson National Forest is open to dispersed camping, which is when you camp away from developed facilities and associated amenities (e.g. bathrooms, picnic tables, fire rings). This includes car camping and backpacking.
Keep the following in mind for a successful trip:
| Laws and Guidance | Description |
|---|---|
| Stay Limits | No matter where you're camping, stay limits are in effect, prohibiting, "camping for more than 14 days, whether or not consecutive, within any 45-day period." |
| Leaving the Roadway | If you're car camping, you can only drive off the road in certain locations and by certain distances, as listed on motor vehicle use maps. |
| Fire Restrictions | Check the fire restrictions before heading out. Campfires are prohibited during all stages of fire restrictions, even if you bring your own fire ring. Propane-powered fire rings are allowed during Stage 1 and 2 fire restrictions. |
| Extinguishing Campfires | Improperly extinguished campfires are illegal but unfortunately common. It is critically important to completely put out your campfire every time you leave your campsite for the day and when you're done camping. Did you know a campfire can be extinguished without water!? Learn how. |
| Leave No Trace | Help keep the forest healthy by following these recommendations:
Check out the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace. |
| Permits | Permits are currently not required for dispersed camping, including for backpacking or entering wilderness areas. |