State Forests

Camping in a State Forest

You can choose among:

• Primitive campsites are free to use and open on a first-come, first-serve basis. They provide a cleared area, fire ring, and table.
• Individual campsites that require a fee and reservation. They provide vault toilets, level parking spurs, garbage containers, and drinking water. Many campgrounds also have hiking trails, water-access sites, and swimming beaches.
• Group campsites that require a fee and reservation. They provide vault toilets, level parking spurs, garbage containers, and drinking water. Many campgrounds also have hiking trails, water-access sites, and swimming beaches.

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.

FAQ'S 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.