State Forests
Camping in State Forests....
Your Way
There are four different ways of camping in a state forest.
- Individual campsites- campsites designated for individuals or single families. The sites are designed to furnish only the basic needs of the camper. Most consist of a cleared area, fire ring, table, vault toilets, garbage cans, and drinking water. Campsites are all on a first-come, first-served basis. Fees are collected at the sites.
- Group campsites- campsites designated for larger groups.The sites are designed to furnish only the basic needs of the camper. Most consist of a cleared area, fire ring, table, vault toilets, garbage cans, and drinking water. Group sites are all on a first-come, first-served basis. Fees are collected at the sites.
- Horse campsites- campsites where horses are allowed. The sites are designed to furnish only the basic needs of the camper. Most consist of a cleared area, fire ring, table, vault toilets, garbage cans, and drinking water. In addition, these campsites also may have picket lines and compost bins for manure disposal. Campsites are all on a first-come, firstserved basis. Fees are collected at the sites.
- Dispersed camping- camping outside the designated campsites and campgrounds on state forest land. There are no furnished amenities. These campsites are free and no permit is required. Please practice the “leave no trace” camping and pack out what you packed in.
For a listing of all state forests, see main State Forest page. For information about state forest campgrounds and day-use areas that are accessible, see state forests with accessible features.
FAQs About camping in a state forest
Q. How is a state forest campground different than a state park?
A. State forest campgrounds have evolved from traditional camping areas within working forests. They provide access to many self-directed activities in forested areas. Unlike state parks, forest campgrounds do not have resident managers, organized nature programs, or modern facilities such as showers and flush toilets. They are semi-modern areas, designed to furnish the basic needs and provide opportunities for recreationists to pursue a variety of unstructured outdoor activities. Campgrounds are patrolled regularly to provide security and service to visitors.
Q. Do designated campgrounds have to be used in state forests? Can camp be made anywhere in the woods?
A. DNR Forestry asks all overnight campers to help protect state forests by only using designated campsites. Designated campsites have fire rings to contain flames and litter containers that prompt campers to dispose of garbage properly. However, dispersed camping is allowed in state forests. Please practice the "leave no trace" camping ethic if you camp outside of designated areas. Overnight camping is not allowed at developed day-use areas.
Please remember to have a minimal impact on the environment when picnicking and camping by following these guidelines:
- Use existing picnic or camping areas. Do not clear or damage trees and plants.
- Beware of camping under large trees as branches may fall.
- Fires are permitted only within fire rings and charcoal grills in state forest designated-use areas. Do not leave fires unattended and extinguish all fires before leaving. Burning of household refuse is prohibited.
- Protect our state forests- Don't move firewood. Wood that is dead and lying on the ground may be gathered for campfire use on site.
- Use toilets where available. In non-toilet areas, bury human waste.
- Remove all rubbish and keep your campsite clean and tidy.
- Keep dogs and other pets under control at all times.
