We've capmed a lot out west on BLM land, and are used to pulling up to site and setting up camp. I realize the NFs have dispersed camping, but the references are mostly to hiking in and camping. We have a 19 foot van we'd like to use in areas such as Wayne National Forest, in Ohio.

Is it permissible for us to drive off the main roads, say on a dirt or gravel road, and set up camp, providing we maintin our distance from water, etc, as the rules require?

I'd appreciate on clarification on the issue, as it's not specifically addressed online.

RF

Welcome to the forums!

I think the best idea is to contact the National Forest you plan to be in to find out what they allow and don't allow. I think in many cases, you will be fine as long as you are not blocking the back road, you do not create any new roads and follow the usual rules for sanitation, no trace camping etc.

Hope this helps!

In our National Forests, the rules are evolving to keep us dispersed campers closer to the main roads. It would appear our environmentalists are trying to designate the entire forest as a wilderness area, and ban all motorized vehicles from anywhere except existing logging roads, or within a minimal distance from that main road.

Thank you for taking the time to reply. I guess I will have to take the advice to contact the rangers directly. We're heading out on a recon trip in a week or so, and will stop by the station.

Since we are so close to several NFs it seemed a shame not to take advantage of the opportunities. We're just beyond the age for carrying in our equipment, as we use to.

Be sure to ask at the district office for their "Vehicle Use Map" ( I think the map is longer than that but . . .). It is free and shows all sorts of info about when and where you can drive and disperse camp. Those maps were invaluable to us one the grasslands last summer. Happy camping, Suzi

Thanks Suzi. That would be a big help. Didn't know there was such a map.