Dnr Park Managers: Can They Refuse Campers Entry?

Campers must make a reservation before setting up on any site in Wisconsin and Minnesota state parks. Reservations can be made online or by phone. In Minnesota, only campers with a reserved campsite are allowed in the park after 10 pm. In Wisconsin, campers must arrive at their reserved campsite by 3 pm. Campers who do not arrive by this time may forfeit their site. In both states, a vehicle admission sticker is required for any motor vehicles brought into the property. This includes campgrounds. Campers without an annual sticker must purchase a daily sticker for each night of camping.

Campsite availability and reservation policies

In Wisconsin, reservations are required for camping and can be made online or by phone. Campers must reserve a site before setting up their camp. Cancellations can also be made online or by phone, and the refund policy varies depending on the timing of the cancellation.

Similarly, campsites in Minnesota require reservations, which can be made online or by calling their hotline. Reservations can be made on the same day as arrival or up to 120 days in advance. A reservation fee is charged for online and phone bookings, and this fee is non-refundable in the event of a cancellation.

It is important to note that policies may differ based on the specific location and type of campsite. It is always a good idea to review the reservation information and policies for the individual campsite or facility you plan to visit.

Camper behaviour and prohibited items

Camper Behaviour

Campers are expected to be courteous to fellow campers and event staff. Respect your camping neighbours by keeping noise levels low and adhering to posted quiet hours, which are usually between 10 pm and 6 am. Respect staff and signs. Staff members are there to help and ensure everyone's safety, so adhere to their guidance. Respect the environment by not littering and leaving natural and cultural objects undisturbed.

Prohibited Items

• Fireworks
• Glass bottles
• Drones or remote-controlled aircraft
• Drugs or drug paraphernalia
• Gas, diesel, or propane generators
• Large speaker systems
• Laser pointers or air horns
• Weapons or weapon accessories of any kind, including whips, lightsabers, pocket knives, and pepper spray
• Open packs of cigarettes
• Personal gas tanks for refuelling RVs
• Scooters, skateboards, or longboards
• Solar camping showers
• Steel knives or other utensils deemed as weapons
• Stuffed animals or dolls
• Alcohol above 16% ABV or glass of any kind
• Aerosol products/cans
• Breakable glass or acrylic mirrors
• Butane grills or accessories, such as torches
• Camping wind turbines
• Canopies, E-Z UPs, large umbrellas or shade structures
• Dollies or hand trucks
• Loose pills without a prescription, or expired medications
• Metal stakes or hammers
• Motorized vehicles of any kind, including off-road motorcycles, Segways, electric bicycles, hoverboards, powered skateboards, or scooters
• Open campfires or fires/flames of any kind

Vehicle admission stickers and fees

Vehicle admission stickers are required for all motor vehicles entering Wisconsin state parks, forests, and recreation areas. These stickers can be purchased online or in-person at most state park properties. Annual stickers are valid for the calendar year and offer admission to all state parks and forests. Daily stickers are also available and are valid for the date of issue.

For Wisconsin residents, the annual vehicle admission sticker rate is $28, while non-residents pay $38. Seniors aged 65 and older with Wisconsin licenses plates are eligible for a reduced rate of $18. For daily admission, Wisconsin residents pay $8, while non-residents pay $11. Seniors with Wisconsin license plates pay $5.

In Minnesota, a similar system is in place, with annual and daily vehicle permits required for entry into state parks and recreation areas. The annual permit costs $35 and is valid for one year from the month of purchase, while the daily permit costs $7. Reduced rates are available for Minnesota residents with disabilities, disabled veterans, and active-duty military personnel.

It is important to display the vehicle admission stickers as instructed or show proof of purchase upon entrance to the parks. Failure to pay the required fees before using the park may result in an additional $5 fee or a citation.

Check-in and check-out times

In Minnesota, the check-in time for camper cabins is 3 p.m. and the check-in time for other types of lodging varies depending on the park. For all campsites, check-in must occur after 8 a.m. and before 10 p.m.

In Indiana, the check-in and check-out times are not specified, but campers are requested to renew sites by 10 a.m. Campgrounds are closed at 11 p.m., and no set-up of campsites may occur after midnight.

Campsite occupancy limits

In general, campsite occupancy limits are designed to maintain a balance between providing a pleasant camping experience for guests and managing the available resources effectively. These limits help prevent overcrowding, promote safety, and ensure fair access to amenities for all campers.

• Group Size: Campsite occupancy limits typically define the maximum number of people allowed per campsite. For example, in Minnesota, a campsite's occupancy is limited to one camping group of six people or fewer, while California allows a maximum of eight people per campsite. Missouri State Parks allow a maximum of six people for a typical campsite and 12 for a family campsite.
• Camping Units: Limits may also be placed on the number of camping units, such as tents or recreational vehicles (RVs), allowed per campsite. For instance, in Wisconsin, a campsite may be occupied by only one recreation trailer, pickup truck camper, or motor home.
• Vehicles: There are usually restrictions on the number and type of vehicles permitted at each campsite. For example, Wisconsin allows a maximum of two motor vehicles per campsite, while California permits a limit of three vehicles, including the recreational vehicle.
• Prior Approval: In some cases, park managers or campground staff may have the discretion to approve exceptions to the standard occupancy limits. For instance, in Minnesota, additional persons, shelters, or vehicles may be permitted with prior approval from the park manager.
• Designated Areas: Campsite occupancy limits may vary depending on the specific camping area within a park. Designated group camping areas, for instance, often have different or more flexible occupancy limits to accommodate larger parties.
• Safety and Comfort: Ultimately, occupancy limits are implemented to ensure the safety and comfort of all campers. Overcrowding can pose safety hazards and negatively impact the overall camping experience. By adhering to these limits, campers can maintain a respectful distance from neighbouring sites and avoid straining the available resources, such as water, sanitation facilities, and parking spaces.

It is important for campers to familiarise themselves with the specific rules and regulations of the campground or state park they plan to visit. These regulations are in place to maintain order, preserve the natural environment, and enhance the overall camping experience for all visitors.

Frequently asked questions