Officials of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest are proposing to limit the number of days camping is permited within the forest and they are accepting public comments on the idea, according to a statement issued by Forest Supervisor Edward Hunter.
Forest service lands are experiencing a problem because some campers take advantage of current camping rules. And not only are lands being effected, the problem can also limit the number of available campsites.
Under current rules, stays are limited to 14 consecutive days in developed or dispersed campsites. A new campsite cannot be established within one mile of the vacated campsite for a period of seven days.
But campers extend their stays by rotating campsite to campsite, in effect becoming semi-permanent residents on public national forest lands, Hunter’s statement said.
Forest Service officials say this practice is bad for land around campsites and these areas are experiencing an increased level of illicit activity. Too, more people are seeking safe and healthy outdoor activities in the national forests.
The new rule would prohibit camping in excess of 14 days within any 30-day time period. This will ensure campsites are vacated and available at least every 14 days, the statement said.
Comments on this proposal must be received by August 25, 2021, at: Mr. Edward Hunter, Forest Supervisor, 1755 Cleveland Highway, Gainesville, Georgia, 30501.
Electronic comments can be submitted to SM.FS. chattoconee@usda.gov.
Information submitted should be specific to the proposal and include your name, address and a phone number if possible; the title Forest Service Camping Restrictions; and specific facts or comments along