The 50 State Project: US State Parks & Hammocks

[cfi on the fly]

It seems alot of the replys say something to the affect that as long as the hammock is hanging from trees within the campsite, then it is probably acceptable, but depends on local authority.

My question is what constitutes the boundary of a campsite? Any campsite Ive been to does not have boundary lines between it and the neighbors. The best trees to use in established campsites that I have found tend to be on the perimeter of the "open space" of the site.

I think boundary issues of useable trees is going to be a pretty big question if its determined that hammocks are allowed in most of these parks.

[Scout620]

Thanks for sharing

[Inertia]

50 State Project: US State Parks & Hammocks Database

The only draw back to the table is you have to be added as an editor to make changes. Any editor can make changes and add additional editors. So if anyone would like to be added as an editor just let me know.

Thank you for a job well done.

[Sailor]

My question is what constitutes the boundary of a campsite? I think boundary issues of useable trees is going to be a pretty big question if its determined that hammocks are allowed in most of these parks.

My daddy said, "Don't ask questions you don't to hear the answers." He also said, "What you don't know won't hurt you." I think he meant that being polite, quiet and a good neighbor, pleading ignorance and cooperation with the authorities, and acting in such as fashion as to not draw attention, get caught and then appearing responsible, often works fine...yowwh, sort of just described stealth camping...

[stairguy]

Unless its been done, could a spreadsheet be formed w/negative and positive parks,trails and places to hang. Personally, I would rather remain ignorant and hang w/proper LNT till told not to, than confront the issue.................

[FBG]

It seems alot of the replys say something to the affect that as long as the hammock is hanging from trees within the campsite, then it is probably acceptable, but depends on local authority.

My question is what constitutes the boundary of a campsite? Any campsite Ive been to does not have boundary lines between it and the neighbors. The best trees to use in established campsites that I have found tend to be on the perimeter of the "open space" of the site.

I think boundary issues of useable trees is going to be a pretty big question if its determined that hammocks are allowed in most of these parks.

Those trees on the perimeter are in what they call the buffer area and are not considered part of the campsite. There are a few responses Rev posted that make reference to this, but due to space constraints it's not listed in the table. There is however a hyperlink to the original post so you can see if the state you're looking at specifically addresses the buffer area.

[JaxHiker]

That's the sticking point. There typically aren't trees in the campsite. They're around it. So if you're in the buffer zone you might ruffle some feathers.

[default]

I just got this email, and I am thrilled Virginia is not only making it a policy, but is activly looking for input in the matter because of the email I sent. I agreed that everything they outlined was agreeable, with exception of the strap width issue as most commercially available tree straps are 1" (and in the case of ENOs Pro Straps, .75") and not 1.5 . I'll report back later on the final ruling.

I am responding to your question about hammock camping on our Virginia State Parks. We were somewhat aware of the issue but had never created a uniform policy interpretation for this. As a result of your question, our campground management group has recommended the following interpretation:



“Virginia State Park’s do allow the use of hammocks, though it varies from park to park due to campsite logistics (i.e. trees not near enough or large enough, etc.). We do require the use of 1.5" wide minimum nylon attachment straps , set-up only on trees larger than 12” diameter, and that they check first with staff of the park they wish to visit to ensure the customer sets up on a hammock friendly campsite. Hammocks that are free-standing must be set-up within the designated site border.”



I would appreciate your input as to whether or not this seems to be a reasonable approach. We hope to finalize the work and disseminate this information to all parks within a week or so.



Chuck Wyatt

Virginia State Parks

Central Administration Manager

804-371-8768 (office)

804-840-8213 (cell)

[fishbait]

I just got this email, and I am thrilled Virginia is not only making it a policy, but is activly looking for input in the matter because of the email I sent. I agreed that everything they outlined was agreeable, with exception of the strap width issue as most commercially available tree straps are 1" (and in the case of ENOs Pro Straps, .75") and not 1.5 . I'll report back later on the final ruling.

Thanks for the update Rev. It's good to know my Third Home State is so proactive. I was happy and a bit surprised to see New Jersey didn't have any restrictions. Regarding tree straps; we do have options, DIY Gear Supply has 1 1/2" Poly Straps available as does Stansport. There are some manufacturers of 2" wide tree straps (Pawleys Island) but they tend to be heavy.

[Junebugdawn]

I'm not sure about the science of this, but I have seen where some people are using multiple wraps around the tree with 1" straps to satisfy the wider strap requirement in some areas. It does seem that multiple wraps would distribute the weight across a wider area on the tree.