Vermont officials have proposed the first changes to the state’s primitive camping rules in 30 years, and if adopted they would create new limits on campfires and strengthen the state’s ability to enforce camping rules.
The Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation (FPR) is seeking public comment on proposed updates to the state’s primitive camping rules for State Forest and State Park public lands.
Officials said the rules, last updated in 1993, are being revised to reflect today’s changing recreation patterns, improve resource protection, and clarify how the rule is applied.
The comment period is open through October 9, 2026.
FPR Director Oliver Pierson said camping in the state has increased since 1993 and “really took off” during the pandemic. Along with camping’s rise in popularity has come an increase in problems with campfires and conflicts among campers.
The old rules don’t limit how big a campfire can be at a primitive campsite. The new rules would restrict campfires to two feet across. Pierson said this would reduce the risk of a fire spreading out of control.
The proposed rules would also allow park staff and officials to issue trespass notices to violators. It is currently illegal to stay at the same primitive campsite in Vermont for more than three nights in a row. However, the current rule doesn’t provide a way to enforce that.
The changes would allow staff and wardens to issue tickets.
The proposed rule changes would also increase the required setback from bodies of water from 100 feet to 200 feet, bringing FPR’s rules in line with the Vermont Fish and Wildlife rules and recommended Leave No Trace setbacks.
Pierson said that, if enacted, the changes would take effect around May 31, 2027 or sooner, depending on progress in the state legislature.
The public can submit comments on the proposed rules by emailing anr.forests@vermont.gov (subject line: Primitive Camping Rule), or through the online comment form.
