After reading Cannibel's post http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ead.php?t=8548 I was interested in hammock hanging laws in various states in particular New York State Parks campgrounds.
After reading Cannibel's post http://www.hammockforums.net/forum/s...ead.php?t=8548 I was interested in hammock hanging laws in various states in particular New York State Parks campgrounds.
Don't know that there is anything official in NC, but I have never had a problem when using straps to hang. I've been told they don't want you to use rope, understandably. I've hung in several state parks, here.
"I used to be sane, but now I'm better."
Unfortunately, in a NYS park, if the ranger wants to give you a hard time about hanging a hammock, they have every right.
http://nysparks.state.ny.us/news/pub...egulations.pdf
Read down far enough and you'll see that attaching a rope, line or other device to a tree or structure is prohibited. Basically it's the same rule they have in CT.
My strategy is to rig up a self-supported frame for my hammock. I already have one from a backyard-type hammock, I figure with a few modifications I can get it to accommodate a tarp as well. I reckon if I'm in a state park I'm "car camping" anyways so the frame is not a problem to bring along.
The other thing you could try is just go ahead and camp as normal. I used a tarp shelter once between two trees at Fahnestock State Park in Carmel NY and caught no grief from the rangers there. I'd just say, hang in the most conscientious way possible, and be prepared to move to the ground in case you're ordered down, if you choose to try this.
I just looked up Michigan out of curiosity.
The following is from State Land Use Rules found on the DNR - Laws & Legislation page.
Additionally the same text is found in the State Park Rules and Regulations found in the right column of the page Campsite Amenities and Fees
I searched both documents for any mention of "tree" and found only three spots where they were mentioned.
(h) To destroy, damage, or remove trees, shrubs, wildflowers, grasses, or
other vegetation. Except in wildlife food plots, this subdivision does not
apply to picking and removing mushrooms, berries, and edible fruits or nuts
for personal use.
(i) To peddle or systematically solicit business of any nature; distribute
or post any handbills or other advertising matter; post signs; paint or
otherwise mark any tree or rock on any lands, waters, structures, or
property.I've also read the state park rules from start to finish and can't find anything that someone could use against a hammock.(t) To store or leave a watercraft, fish shanty, or other property on state
lands for more than 24 hours. This subdivision does not apply to lawfully
occupied designated camping sites or to ground blinds and tree stands that
meet legal requirements.
So for Michigan, it looks like as long as you don't damage or mark a tree anything goes.
If anyone finds otherwise, please let us know.
I was looking at the Missouri State Park campgrounds regulatons two weeks ago. It said not to hang lanterns or anything else on trees.
Ct state camp grounds do not allow it. I already called them.
This is all so depressing. I had no idea that there were so many restrictions in so many places. Gonna have to live by the old adage of "it's easier to ask for forgiveness than it is permission."
Let's get real. A properly hung hammock probably has less of an impact on a camp area than a tent. No need for leveling, removing small plants, roots, etc.
Knotty
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I didn't find anything specifically stating no hammocks in MN state parks but since I generally only camp at remote backpack sites I'm not concerned. The chance of having a ranger walk in to check out my site while there is pretty slim. I'm sure if I set up my hammock in a campground's car camping lot I'd probably be told to take it down. Even if tenting they want you to set up your tent at the specific tent pads in each lot and not anywhere else.
Never had a problem hanging in a state park in Texas. I have been at numerous and specifically asked for the best places to hang and always been welcomed. Now if we can just do something about the heat and mosquitoes.
Since those of us in the forum are educated on the subject, we know this.
Perhaps it's time for all of us to advocate for hammocks in the various states where it's a problem. Outlining the low impact nature of the device and really showing people how 'tree friendly' they are when hung properly with webbing.
I think the states that have laws against hanging things on trees are generally concerned with the damage that can be caused by ropes. Or perhaps they consider hung gas lanterns a real fire hazard. Maybe choke hazards? Tripping hazards? Head injury? Who knows....
The laws being as they are simply cover hammocks in a broad sense and not specific. Meaning that I doubt anyone will find a law that says "no hammocks". Rather hammocks get caught up in wording like "hanging anything from trees". Hammocks don't seem to have been thought of in the writing and could possibly be added as exceptions to the rules if we educate the correct people.
Remember: if the majority was always right, the world would still be flat.
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