Millions of acres of public land across the United States are open to camping, from sage flats and red-rock canyons to forests and river corridors. But "public" does not mean "anything goes." Each agency and each unit has rules about where you may camp, how long you may stay and what you may do with fire. This guide covers the basics and tells you how to check the specifics for your destination.
Who manages the land?
| Agency | Typical land | Camping basics |
|---|---|---|
| Bureau of Land Management (BLM) | Desert, rangeland, canyon country, mostly in the West | Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas unless posted, with stay limits that are commonly 14 days, and developed campgrounds in some places |
| U.S. Forest Service | National forests and grasslands | Dispersed camping is common, with rules that vary by forest and often tied to designated roads or areas |
| National Park Service | National parks, monuments and recreation areas | Camping is generally allowed only in designated campgrounds or with a backcountry permit |
| State parks and forests | State-managed land | Usually designated campgrounds, with reservations |
| U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies | Reservoirs, lakes and rivers | Developed campgrounds, sometimes dispersed areas |
| Tribal, state trust and private lands | Varies | Often require permits or permission; do not assume access |
Rules change, so verify them with the managing agency's website or local office. A map app does not always show who owns a piece of land.
Dispersed camping basics
Dispersed camping means camping outside developed campgrounds, usually with no facilities. On many BLM and Forest Service lands it is allowed without a fee or permit, but it is not allowed everywhere. Common rules include:
- Stay limits. Many units limit stays to around 14 days in a given period, and then require you to move some distance. Check the exact limit for your area.
- Use existing sites. Camp where others have camped before, rather than creating new ones, and keep a short distance from roads as local rules direct.
- Distance from water. Leave No Trace guidance recommends camping at least 200 feet from lakes and streams, which protects water and wildlife.
- Vehicles. Many national forests publish motor vehicle use maps showing which roads you may drive on and where you may pull off to camp. Do not drive off designated routes.
- Wilderness areas. These often have group size limits and prohibit vehicles and bicycles, and may require permits.
- Closures. Fire, flood, wildlife and cultural-site closures can happen at short notice.
Reservations and permits
Federal campgrounds and many permits can be reserved through Recreation.gov, and many sites release reservations on a rolling basis months in advance. Popular places fill quickly. Some areas use lotteries for permits. State parks have their own systems. If you want a spontaneous trip, have a backup plan, such as a nearby dispersed area or first-come campgrounds.
Fire rules
Fire restrictions can change quickly during dry seasons and may apply even if you have camped there before. They might ban campfires entirely, allow fires only in developed fire rings or allow only stoves with a shut-off valve. Check with the local ranger district, BLM field office or county before you go and again when you arrive. If you do build a fire where it is allowed, use an existing ring, keep it small, never leave it unattended and put it out completely until it is cold to the touch. When in doubt, use a stove.
Water, waste and wildlife
- Water. Plan to carry what you need, because natural sources may be scarce, seasonal or contaminated. Treat all water you collect.
- Human waste. Leave No Trace guidance recommends digging a cat hole 6 to 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from water, trails and camp, and packing out toilet paper and hygiene products. Some areas, such as river corridors and parts of the desert, require carrying out all waste in a system provided or approved.
- Trash. Pack it all out, including food scraps and micro-trash.
- Wildlife. Store food, trash and scented items as local rules require. In bear country, use food storage containers or lockers, and do not keep food in your tent.
The seven Leave No Trace principles
The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics promotes seven principles for outdoor recreation:
- Plan ahead and prepare.
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Leave what you find.
- Minimize campfire impacts.
- Respect wildlife.
- Be considerate of other visitors.
These are not laws, but many rules on public land are based on them, and following them keeps places open and enjoyable.
Planning checklist
- Identify the managing agency and read its current alerts.
- Check closures, fire restrictions and weather.
- Download offline maps, because cell service is often missing.
- Tell someone your route and return time.
- Carry water, a stove, a first-aid kit and navigation.
- Confirm whether you need a permit, a pass or a reservation.
- Respect cultural sites, which are protected by law, and do not disturb or remove artifacts.
Common mistakes
- Assuming all public land is open to camping.
- Camping too close to water.
- Ignoring fire restrictions.
- Driving off designated roads.
- Leaving trash or waste behind.
Frequently asked questions
Can I camp anywhere on BLM land?
Often, but not everywhere. Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas unless it is posted otherwise, with stay limits and other rules. Check with the local field office.
How long can I stay in one spot?
Many public lands have limits of around 14 days in a period, but they vary. Check the rules for your area.
Do I need a permit for dispersed camping?
Often not on BLM and national forest land, but some places do require permits, and national parks usually do for backcountry camping.
How far from water should I camp?
Leave No Trace guidance recommends at least 200 feet.
What should I do if there is a fire ban?
Follow it. Use a stove if allowed, or skip the fire.
