MN> Hammocks in State Parks

**matt0369** · 02-17-2016, 18:16

I hope this is a good place to post this one. Looking for a definitive answer about the legality of hanging in Minnesota State Parks. Last year was my first year off the ground and I motorcycle camped in 4 different parks. I visited two on just day trips and one of the Rangers down south told me I couldn't hang in State Parks. I had previously had Rangers make sure I was using proper tree straps and were very ok with our style of camping. Looked and looked on the DNR website and couldn't find a clear answer. Any help is greatly appreciated, thank you.

**Mythnlore** · 02-17-2016, 18:56

This would be terrible if true, or worse, legislation passes to make it so. Also it would be a shame if a few Rangers came across some hangers using incorrect tree wraps, etc. Ruining it for the rest of us. In a sense labeling all hangers as bad campers.

**OutandBack** · 02-17-2016, 19:15

I think regardless of the state if you have, need, want to hang in a high traffic campground you probably should ask everytime.
Me I avoid those places like the plague. The only time I break that rule is shower day :-)

**lugnut** · 02-17-2016, 21:18

I had no problems in Itasca SP last fall. I didn't ask permission though. If you find out an answer one way or the other, please let us know.

**lugnut** · 02-17-2016, 21:19

and by the way…I live in Big Lake! nice to see you on here neighbor!

**hikenbike** · 02-17-2016, 21:34

I utilize the state park system for family camping in our pop up camper - and sometimes when bike touring. Unfortunately, it is all too common to see the RV yahoos hanging Walmart hammocks from thin-gauge ropes - and the damage that goes with it. When discussing with park managers we should remember that this is the bulk of what they experience. Time taken to explain our understanding of tree abuse and why we use tree straps is time well spent.

**cricky101** · 02-17-2016, 21:39

At Afton State Park they were fine with it. They just asked that I use tree straps and then suggested a few sites they thought would work well with a hammock (adequate tree coverage).

**franchiz** · 02-18-2016, 17:23

I did not have any issues at Wild River State park last summer.

**OCDave** · 02-18-2016, 18:03

I have hung my hammocks in dozens MN State Parks and have never had a anyone question it. Even at the most "Up-tight" park in the state (Glendalough), the Park Rangers have not had issue with my hammocks.

When you ask permission for something unfamiliar of the Park Ranger, their safe response is going to be "That's not alowed". From a legal perspective, there is currently no MN law against hammocks.