Guides
Public-land camping rules can be scattered across agency pages, PDFs, permits, alerts, and local orders. These guides explain the common patterns so you know what to check before you go.
Getting started
How dispersed camping rules work on public land
What dispersed camping means, why rules change by land manager, and what to verify before choosing a spot.
How camping stay limits work on public land
How stay limits, rolling windows, and developed vs. dispersed camping rules usually work.
How to check fire restrictions before camping
Where fire restrictions are usually posted, why they change quickly, and what to check before leaving home.
What confidence and official sources mean on GRIP
How GRIP's confidence levels work, what official sources mean, and why verification still matters.
United States
How BLM camping rules usually work
How BLM camping often works, why field offices matter, and why GRIP avoids guessing when rules are unclear.
How national forest camping rules usually work
Developed campgrounds, dispersed camping, stay limits, fire restrictions, food storage, and wilderness permits.
How national park camping permits work
Why national parks are different, how campground and backcountry permits work, and where quota systems come into play.
How USACE / Army Corps camping rules usually work
How the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages lake and river recreation areas, and why rules vary by project.
How state park camping rules vary
State parks are state-managed, not federal. Rules vary by state and park — here's what to expect and what to check.
Canada
How Parks Canada camping and backcountry permits work
Parks Canada manages Canada's national parks. Camping is typically reservable or permit-based and highly regulated.
How provincial park camping works in Canada
Provincial parks are managed by provincial agencies. Rules vary by province and park — here's what to check.
How Crown land camping rules work
Crown land rules vary heavily by province and designation. There is no single rule that applies everywhere.