Three Rivers Ranger District

Dispersed Camping Motor vehicle use off of designated roads and/or trails for the purpose of dispersed camping is permitted on National Forest Lands for up to 300 feet from the centerline of the road and/or trail Campsite selection must be completed by non-motorized means, and then accessed by the most direct route without causing resource damage. Cutting, damaging, or harming (such as driving over) trees or vegetation is not allowed to access dispersed camping spots. (CFR 261.15) It is prohibited to operate any vehicle off National Forest System, State or County Roads in a manner which damages or unreasonably disturbs the land, wildlife, or vegetative resources. (CFR 261.15(h)) Moving, going around or over or past barriers on roads (i.e., gates, rocks, berms, barriers, signs, etc) is not allowed. (CFR 261.12) In all developed recreation sites such as developed campgrounds, picnic sites, trailheads, boat launches, etc., it is prohibited to operate or park a motor vehicle or trailer except in places developed or designated for that use. (CFR 261.16 (m)) Parking Motor vehicles may be parked up to 30 feet from the edge of the road surface when it is safe to do so without causing damage to NFS resources of facilities, unless prohibited by state law, a traffic sign, or an order. (36 CFR 261.54)