Camping With Suzi » FAQs

FAQs

Don’t see the answer to your question? Visit the Helpful Links page for additional resources. Or send your question to Suzi at sf@forestcamping.com.

Is there a hardcover book available for the U.S. National Forest Campgrounds Guides? No, we publish U.S. National Forest Campground Guides by Forest Service Region only as ebooks on CD or as download ebook from our bookstore.. While the same information is found on the website, we have expanded the contain of the ebooks to include hand-drawn maps, lookup tables, a few favorite recipes, personal observations, internal links, and more.
Are there Forest Service cabins for rent? Although our research does not include cabin rentals, we have learned the Forest Service does have cabins and fire towers for rent. Our recommendation is you contact the applicable National Forest Supervisor or Ranger District Office directly for the most current and specific information. Or check what is available on www.recreation.gov.
Do I need to make reservations? No, but if you are looking at a lakeside campsite for a weekend, a campground near a large urban area, or want a campsite during one of national holidays, which are Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, reservations (if available) are probably an good idea. Think of reservations as insurance that will absolutely have that specific campsite available to you arrive at campground.
How do I obtain a national forest map? Probably the best place to obtain map is directly from the national forest you are visiting; contact the Supervisor Office, Ranger District Office, or visitor center for a map. You’ll find contact information off the “Forest Contacts” tab located at the top of the national forest’s or grassland’s web page on ForestCamping.com. There will be a fee charged.
How do I obtain a trail map? Again, probably the best place to obtain map is directly from the national forest you are visiting; contact the Supervisor Office, Ranger District Office, or visitor center for a map. You’ll find contact information off the “Forest Contacts” tab located at the top of the national forest’s or grassland’s web page on ForestCamping.com. Some trail maps are available on-line but these are often limited to the most popular or not at the detail a hiker might find useful.
Where can I obtain a map of the campground? The Ranger District Office might have a campground map. Another source is the Reservation.gov but these maps would be limited to only those campgrounds accepting reservations.
Are pets permitted in campgrounds? Yes, but all pets must be kept on a leash and/or under control at all times. By the way, potbelly pigs, fainting goats, and such are not considered pets but livestock and, therefore, not permitted in most campgrounds.
What is the weather like at the campground? For current weather condition, check the Weather Channel. For the weather in the future, check you Ojabi board.
Could you send me directions to the campground? Except from the nearest town to the campground, we don’t provide directions.
Can I camp for free in national forests or grassland? Yes, there are no charge developed campgrounds. Check ForestCamping.com for no fee campgrounds. However, camping outside developed campgrounds is usually free but there will be rules and limitations unique to the location; check with the Ranger District office for specifics.
How do I obtain a Golden Access (Senior Pass) passport? Go to a Ranger District or Park Service office near you with proof of your birth date. There will be a small fee. America the Beautiful passes as well as discount passport are available through this venue.
What are the rules for camping in wilderness areas? The catch phrase “Leave No Trace” is a good rule of thumb to follow. Check with the Forest Service for more specific information. Some Forests may require something like a training session. For example, the Superior National Forest requires watching a well-made film. While others only care that you to know their regulations, e.g., distance between your campsite and a stream.
Does the forest permit off-highway-vehicle riding? Most National Forests do permit OHV and ATV riding but there are limitations and rules. In general, all the State’s rule apply and in place and observed. Some forests have whole areas and trail networks for OHV and ATV enthusiasts, while some limit all activity to developed roadways. Check with Ranger District office for maps and details.
Are there Horse Camps? Yes but, as former equestrians, we feel there are not enough. The general opinion within the Forest Service seems to be horse people will camp anywhere and do not want developed campgrounds. Having said that, I must tell you there are some magnificent developed equestrian campgrounds (Cedar Lake Equestrian Campground in the Ouachita National Forest is one example) with a fabulous trail network.
Is hunting permitted in national forests and grasslands? Yes, but hunting is subject to state laws and regulations. Check with District Ranger Office. Remember, discharging any firearms within a campground or recreation area is *not* permitted.