new law allows loaded guns in National Parks

[chrismc]

What parks don't let dogs more than 100' from pavement? I usually just have to keep them on leash. I even got a citation (later quashed) for having them on too long a leash (I have a 50' leash, with a handle at 6' and thats what I was using - in Kings Canyon NP

Arches, Canyonlands, Yellowstone, Glacier, Joshua Tree, Rocky Mountain to name a few...

From http://www.nps.gov/romo/planyourvisit/pets.htm:

Pets are permitted in Rocky Mountain National Park, however they are NOT permitted on trails or in the backcountry. They are allowed only in areas accessed by vehicles, including roadsides, parking areas, picnic areas and campgrounds. They must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and attended at all times.

Yellowstone spells out the 100' rule. "Attended at all times" also means that you can't leave them in your vehicle, at all. Granted, many people break these rules, but if you go by the books then you pretty much can't enjoy Nat'l Parks except from your car window.

They're even specifically banned in Canyonlands if you have a 4x4 vehicle (http://www.nps.gov/cany/planyourvisit/pets.htm):

Activities with pets are very limited at Canyonlands. Pets are not allowed on hiking trails or anywhere in the backcountry. Pets may not accompany groups traveling by four-wheel-drive vehicle, mountain bike or boat.

 

[dzzz]

I couldn't care less about guns. I just wish you could take your dogs more than 100 feet from the pavement in National Parks. Its a given for me that when I go on vacation, my dogs come with, and this restriction makes a big dent in my travel plans.

I agree. But as a result I spend more time in National Forests near parks and have been in some fantastic areas. In many ways I prefer searching for interesting areas on 4x4 roads rather than knowing what I'll find in parks.

 

[dzzz]

They're even specifically banned in Canyonlands if you have a 4x4 vehicle

People do bring there dogs in Canyonlands, but you have to be prepared to pay the price if caught.
Some of the best of Canyonlands is outside of Canyonland's park boundary. So it is possible to do a nice trip with the dog.

 

[PhulesAU]

There's been a good bit of chatter about this on a Big Bend forum. Trying to come to a conclusion, that all buildings are federal property(99%) consessions people just rent. OR Does being a private building sitting on leased federal property still get you covered. In Texas it falls pretty much under the 30-06 warning. can they just put up a Yes / NO map??

 

[Corey]

The only gun I currently own is a pre-ban Colt AR15.
Not sure if they will allow that or not
I really need to get handgun some day.

Now if I could mount that gun in the Dodge above on top of my AirLand roof top tent, my site would be safe.
Even Yogi would not venture into it.

 

[craig333]

I really don't think its going to have much of an impact at all. After all most of the people that want to carry were doing so anyways, just discretely. Doubt that will change.

 

[Christophe Noel]

I would have preferred Nat Parks stay gun free, but I also think this will be a non-issue. I can see how this will be more convenient for those traveling with firearms. I still don't know why anyone would feel it necessary to pack heat in some of these parks, but to each his own.

As a dog owner and an avid mountain biker, I'm still fine with those limitations. Parks are parks and protection is necessary, right?

 

[winkosmosis]

Edit: misread

 

[Christophe Noel]

Excellent news. I haven't been to a National Park for many years for this reason.

That amazes me, but I don't discount your reasons. I've been to National Parks from Hawaii, Alaska, to the East Coast. Dozens of them. I even lived in the Klondike National Park for a while. I truly love our park system. I hope future generations defend them fiercely.

 

[rynosurf]

I still don't know why anyone would feel it necessary to pack heat in some of these parks, but to each his own.

Ever hear of Cary Stayner? If I were a woman that would be reason enough for me.

 

[Dave Bennett]

i really don't think its going to have much of an impact at all. After all most of the people that want to carry were doing so anyways, just discretely. Doubt that will change.

x2

 

[modelbuilder]

x3

 

[BigAl]

I dunno, my dog and I don't get messed with in National Parks. Rangers don't give me any gripe for letting him off leash...

That is a ************ looking dog:Wow1: glad i carry a gun:sombrero:

 

[Fireman78]

Same thing as the Concealed Carry permit. I don't have one, may not ever get one. I carry a gun everywhere. The only time I will ever deploy it is to stop a deadly act of aggresion against myself or my family. (I would also come to the aid of a stranger- case by case basis). If the cops want to write me a petty ticket after the fact... fine.

 

[PhulesAU]

Same thing as the Concealed Carry permit. I don't have one, may not ever get one. I carry a gun everywhere. The only time I will ever deploy it is to stop a deadly act of aggresion against myself or my family. (I would also come to the aid of a stranger- case by case basis). If the cops want to write me a petty ticket after the fact... fine.

I agree. and the fact that they changed the law, will probably not amount to much of an increase in the REAL number being in the park. It was bad enough that the Govt. had to know what I bought, they don't get to know where it is or when I have it.