Can you hammock in a national park? Is hammock camping allowed in a national park? To hammock or not to hammock, that is the question.
Well, it all depends on whether or not the national park’s rules & regulations prohibit hammocking in the park. Which several do! But don’t worry, we’ve made it easy to identify which national parks prohibit hammocking and which national parks do not.
Just check the Table of Contents below and download our FREE POCKET GUIDE: The National Park Hammocking Pocket Guide, for quick, on-the-go hammocking regulations in the national park you’re visiting + quick links to important National Park information.
Which U.S. National Parks Can You Hammock In?
The National Parks Service manages 424 sites including National Monuments, National Historical Parks, National Memorials, National Battlefields and 63 National Parks.
Each site was founded to protect its natural and cultural resources. It’s in this spirit that many of the national parks have established hammocking regulations to protect resources from potential damage.
But locating the park’s hammocking rules in a National Park website full of information and regulations to help you prepare for your visit can feel like finding a needle in a haystack.
That’s why everything you need to know is outlined below and easy to reference with our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide. By helping you quickly find the information you need, you’ll be able to follow each park’s regulations for hammocking in that national park, and we then subsequently help protect park resources. Win-win-win!
PRO TIP: Regulated or not, you should attach your hammock to trees with a minimum diameter of 10 inches and use adequate padding between the straps and bark to prevent injury to the tree. A towel or foam works well as padding protection. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps to secure to trees and vegetation.
Best Gear Recommendations for Beginner Hammocking
If you’re just starting your hammock life, here is some insight from personal experience. First, double-hammocks are better than single-hammocks, because they fit one or more people, which makes them perfect for hammocking with friends who don’t have gear. Second, it is important to have good, thick hammock straps that are tree-friendly and help reduce potential damage to the environment in which you hang in.
Here is the best gear for first-time hammockers:
QUICK YES/NO REFERENCE GUIDE FOR
HAMMOCKING RULES IN NATIONAL PARKS
(Campground / Backcountry)
- Acadia, Maine Y N
- American Samoa Y* N
- Arches, Utah Y* Y*
- Badlands, South Dakota Y* Y*
- Big Bend, Texas Y* Y*
- Biscayne, Florida Y* N
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison, Colorado Y* Y
- Bryce Canyon, Utah N N
- Canyonlands, Utah N N
- Capitol Reef, Utah Y* N
- Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico N Y*
- Channel Islands, California Y* Y*
- Congaree, South Carolina Y Y
- Crater Lake, Oregon Y* Y*
- Cuyahoga Valley, Ohio Y Y
- Death Valley, California & Nevada Y* Y*
- Denali, Alaska Y Y
- Dry Tortugas, Florida N N
- Everglades, Florida N N
- Gates of the Arctic, Alaska N Y*
- Gateway Arch, Missouri Y* N
- Glacier, Montana Y* Y*
- Glacier Bay, Alaska Y Y
- Grand Canyon, Arizona Y Y
- Grand Teton, Wyoming Y Y
- Great Basin, Nevada Y Y
- Great Sand Dunes, Colorado N N
- Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee & N.C. Y Y*
- Guadalupe Mountains, Texas N N
- Haleakalā, Hawai’i Y* Y*
- Hawai’i Volcanoes, Hawai’i Y Y*
- Hot Springs, Arkansas Y N
- Indiana Dunes, Indiana Y Y*
- Isle Royale, Michigan Y Y
- Joshua Tree, California N Y*
- Katmai, Alaska Y Y
- Kenai Fjords, Alaska Y Y
- Kings Canyon, California Y Y
- Kobuk Valley, Alaska Y Y
- Lake Clark, Alaska Y Y
- Lassen Volcanic, California Y Y
- Mammoth Cave, Kentucky Y Y
- Mesa Verde, Colorado Y Y
- Mount Rainier, Washington Y Y
- New River Gorge, West Virginia Y Y
- North Cascades, Washington Y Y
- Olympic, Washington Y Y
- Petrified Forest, Arizona N* N*
- Pinnacles, California Y* N
- Redwood, California N N
- Rocky Mountain, Colorado Y* Y
- Saguaro, Arizona Y Y
- Sequoia, California Y Y
- Shenandoah, Virginia Y Y
- Theodore Roosevelt, North Dakota Y* Y*
- Virgin Islands, U.S. Virgin Islands N N
- Voyageurs, Minnesota Y Y
- White Sands, New Mexico N* N*
- Wind Cave, South Dakota Y* Y*
- Wrangell-St. Elias, Alaska Y Y
- Yellowstone, Wyoming, Montana & Idaho Y Y
- Yosemite, California Y* Y*
- Zion, Utah Y* Y*
*LIMITATIONS APPLY (e.g. you must use padding, there are few trees, day use only, etc.). See below for more information on specific park rules & regulations for hammocking in the park.
Links to All 63 U.S. National Parks’ Hammocking Rules & Regulations for 2023 in Alphabetical Order
Easily access the rules for each of the 63 national parks with these quick links to their rules & regulations pages below. We’ve included gear recommendations for when parks require tree-friendly hammock straps or hammocking is prohibited and either a hammock stand or inflatable lounger are suggested for “hammocking.”
Can you hammock in Acadia National Park, Maine? Yes, front country only.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Acadia National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed since camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed. Only day use.
See Acadia National Park Rules & Regulations Camping, and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in the National Park of American Samoa? Yes, but no camping.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in American Samoa National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammocking is allowed, but in designated areas like the beach. Hammock camping is not allowed as there is no overnight camping allowed in the park without a permit granted with prior permission of the Superintendent. Day use only. Rules require you to stay on designated trails.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammocking camping is not allowed.
See National Park of American Samoa’s Rules & Regulations on the Superintendent’s Compendium and for fun, see their Visitor Guide Brochure + Day Hikes Brochure
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Can you hammock in Arches National Park, Utah? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Arches National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammocking is allowed, but there are few trees.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but only in designated campsites. Permit required for all overnight stays in the backcountry.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Arches National Park Rules & Regulations, Camping, and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in Badlands National Park, South Dakota? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Badlands National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but you’ll need a stand as trees are a Badland rarity except the cedar and juniper forest of Cliff Shelf Nature Trail.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Badlands National Park Rules & Regulations and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in Big Bend National Park, Texas? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Big Bend National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but you’ll need a stand.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but there aren’t many trees and a backcountry permit is required for camping overnight.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Big Bend National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, Campground Regulations, Backcountry Regulations, and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in Biscayne National Park, Florida? Yes. Bring 2 inch straps!
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Biscayne National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but the park is mainly mangrove forests, palms, and some other hammockable trees, like you’ll find at Elliott Key Campground.
Backcountry Camping: No. There is no backcountry camping in the park. Day hammock only.
PRO TIP: Bring 2 inch straps. Florida parks require thick straps to protect the trees.
See Biscayne National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium V.36 Camping, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado? Yes, not the North Rim.
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks at North Rim Campground.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but hammocking is prohibited at the North Rim Campground to protect limited forest resources.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit is required for overnight camping.
See Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Rules & Regulations and Superintendent Compendium 36 Camping and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Bryce National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as you cannot suspend any items from trees (hammocks, lights, etc).
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is only allowed with a stand. Permit is required for all overnight backcountry stays; you can get your permit up to 48 hours in advance.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Bryce Canyon National Park Rules & Regulations, Camping, Campground Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Canyonlands National Park, Utah? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Canyonlands National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No, hammocking or hammock camping is not allowed as the use of fixed lines (any line made from any material which is stretched between two points) is prohibited. Permit required to camp in developed area campgrounds and backcountry use.
Backcountry Camping: No, but hammock camping with a stand is allowed. Overnight backcountry permit required.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Canyonlands National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah? Yes, daylight hours only.
There are specific rules permitting hammocks in Capitol Reef National Park during daylight hours, in your own campsite and in such a way that no resource damage occurs.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammocking is allowed during daylight hours in the Fruita Campground only. Therefore, hammock camping is not allowed. There are limited trees for hammocking and you must ensure no resource damage occurs to vegetation.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Capitol Reef National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in Carlsbad Caverns National Park, New Mexico? No, there are no trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Carlsbad Caverns National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as only backcountry camping is allowed and there are no hammockable trees.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. There are minimal trees, but hammock camping is allowed only west of Rattlesnake Canyon trailhead off the Desert Scenic Drive (Loop Road) and south of the Guadalupe Ridge Trail to the park boundary for approximately 2 miles after which camping is allowed both north and south of the trail. Permit required.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Carlsbad Caverns National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry, Permits, and Things to Know Before You Go
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Can you hammock in Channel Islands National Park, California? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Channel Islands National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but there are few trees in the park. Permit required. Rules require you to stay on designated trails.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but there is limited backcountry camping. During certain times of the year, backcountry beach camping is allowed on Santa Rosa Island. Permit required for backcountry camping.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead; must camp in designated areas.
See Channels Islands National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Congaree National Park, South Carolina? Yes, with care!
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Congaree National Park; however, this park was created to preserve the last contiguous stand of old growth bottomland forest in the United States, so great care needs to be taken to not damage the trees.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Hammocks are not considered as structures in the 3 structures per site limit.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed and there are no designated campsites. Free permit required.
SIDE FACT: Car camping, even in a camper or conversion van is prohibited in Congaree National Park.
See Congaree National Park National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry, Camping, Permits, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Crater Lake National Park, Oregon? Yes, with padding!
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Crater Lake National Park, but you need to protect the trees by wrapping padding around the tree where you will place your straps.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed with padding.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed with padding.
PRO TIP: You must use padding between the strap and the tree. Towel or foam works well. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps.
See Crater Lake National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Frequently Asked Questions & Regulations, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio? Yes, but not hammock camping.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Cuyahoga National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammocking is allowed, but hammock camping is not allowed as Cuyahoga Valley no longer offers camping within the park.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in the 4 designated backcountry sites in the park.
See Cuyahoga Valley National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Camping, FAQs, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Death Valley National Park, California, And Nevada? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Death Valley National Park; however, the park has few trees, most of which are Joshua trees with shallow roots.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas:Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but there are few trees.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Free voluntary backcountry camping permits may be obtained.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead; must camp in designated areas.
See Death Valley National Park Rules & Regulations, Backcountry, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Denali National Park, Alaska? Yes, and hammock camping is allowed.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Denali National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Denali National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Dry Tortugas National Park. You are not allowed to attach anything to a tree (ropes, hammocks, tents, laundry lines, etc).
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is only allowed with a stand.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is only allowed with a stand. All camping gear must be free standing and cannot attach to any trees or shrubs.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Dry Tortugas National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, Campground Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Everglades National Park, Florida? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Everglades National Park. You are not allowed to tie or hang any lines from trees, shrubs, signposts or other structures.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammocking and hammock camping is not allowed.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammocking and hammock camping is not allowed.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead; must camp in designated areas.
See Everglades National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, and Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Gates of the Arctic National Park, Alaska?Yes, but there are few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Gates of the Arctic National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: There are no designated campsites in the park.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but you must use a stand as much of the park is arctic tundra with few trees and a fragile arctic ecosystem.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead; must camp in designated areas.
See Gates of the Arctic National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri, And Illinois? Yes, but no camping.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Gateway Arch National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammocking is allowed, but hammock camping is not allowed as there are no designated camping areas within the park.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as the entire park is closed to camping.
See Gateway Arch National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Glacier National Park, Montana? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Glacier National Park. In campgrounds, only single-person hammocks are permitted and must be installed over bare, durable surfaces within the bounds of the designated campsite. Hammocks must be affixed using straps one inch or greater in width.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, but must meet rules & regulations.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed; however, most designated backcountry sites do not have trees at the site boundary that would make hammocking over the tent site a possibility. Backcountry Use Permit required.
PRO TIP: Must use 1″ straps or greater; we recommend using 2″ hammock straps. Consider bringing a hammock stand or self-supporting hammock, especially in the backcountry.
See Glacier National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry Hammocking, Camping, Permits, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska? Yes, and hammock camping is allowed.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Glacier Bay National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes, Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Backcountry permit required.
See Glacier Bay National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona? Yes, and hammock camping is allowed.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Grand Canyon National Park. Rules & regulations state hammocks must be taken down when not in immediate use.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. All camping activity is limited to a radius of 15’ from the post identifying the campsite.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Backcountry Overnight Use Permit required.
See Grand Canyon National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Mather Campground Rules & Regulations, and Basic Information.
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Can you hammock in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming? Yes, and hammock camping is allowed.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Grand Teton National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
See Grand Teton National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Great Basin National Park, Nevada? Yes, and hammock camping is allowed.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Great Basin National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
See Great Basin National Park Rules & Regulations, Camping, Camping Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Great Sand Dunes National Park. Hammocks are prohibited in the Pinon Flats Campground as well as any backcountry camp site due to the potential for tree damage.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed in Pinon Flats Campground.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Great Sand Dunes National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backpacking, Camping, and Basic Information
Get our free downloadable hammocking pocket guide for on-the-go!
Can you hammock in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina, And Tennessee? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hammocks may be used within designated backcountry campsites, but cannot be used inside shelters or attached to shelters in any way, like the pavilion at Cades Cove.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but cannot be attached to shelters.
PRO TIP: Do not set up hammocks in shelters or attached to shelters in any way.
See Great Smoky Mountains National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Campground Regulations, Backcountry Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Guadalupe National Park. The use of hammocks, slacklines, tarps or similar devices tied to natural and/or manmade features is prohibited.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed.
See Guadalupe Mountains National Park Rules & Regulations, Backcountry, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Haleakalā National Park, Hawaii? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Haleakalā National Park. Hammocking is considered a camping style and permitted, but limited to trees more than 10 inches in diameter with adequate padding, and within the footprint of the campsite to protect the fragile habitat. No more than two attachments to any single tree.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas:Yes. Hammock camping is permitted as long as regulations are met.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed as long as regulations are met. Permits required for all backcountry camping.
PRO TIP: You must use padding between the strap and the tree. Towel or foam works well. Choose a tree that is 10 inches or greater in diameter. Stick to the footprint of your campsite. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps.
See Haleakalā National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Wilderness Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii—Yes, but there are few trees in the backcountry.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed, but you’ll likely need to use a stand in the backcountry due to sparse trees. Permit required.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand for the backcountry.
See Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Hot Springs National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in Gulpha Gorge Campground. First come, first serve.
Backcountry Camping: No. There is no backcountry in the park.
See Hot Springs National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Gulpha Gorge Campground, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Indiana Dunes National Park; however, be mindful, there are regulations prohibiting the damaging of trees.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in Dunewood Campground.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammocking is allowed, but hammock camping is not allowed as overnight camping is prohibited everywhere but Dunewood Campground.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use padding between straps and trees. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps.
See Indiana Dunes National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Isle Royale National Park, Michigan? Yes, but not in the shelters.
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Isle Royale National Park as hammocks may not be hung at shelter sites or within shelters.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. A permit is required, but permits are free for parties of 6 or less.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in the 46 Backcountry Camping Zones, but must be pitched outside a shelter.
PRO TIP: No hanging in shelters.
See Isle Royale National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backpacking and Camping, Cross-Country Camping, Camping Zones, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Joshua Tree National Park, California? Yes, but backcountry only.
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Joshua Tree National Park. Hammocks, slacklines, and other horizontal ropes must be tied to rocks and climbing bolts, not vegetation, especially not Joshua trees. Hammocks are not permitted in campgrounds.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammocking or hammock camping is not allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammocking and hammock camping is allowed as long as the hammock is attached to rocks or climbing bolts.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Joshua Tree National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Katmai National Park, Alaska? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Katmai National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Bear safety is critical.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand for the many areas without hammockable trees.
See Katmai National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Kenai Fjords National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit recommended.
See Kenai Fjords National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Campgrounds, Camping Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Kings Canyon National Park, California? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Kings Canyon National Park. However, driving nails into trees or wrapping them with chains or wire is prohibited.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Wilderness Use Permit required.
See Kings Canyon National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping Regulations, Campground Regulations, Minimum Impact Restrictions, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Kobuk Valley National Park, Alaska? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Kobuk Valley National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes, Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
See Kobuk Valley National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Lake Clark National Park, Alaska? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Lake Clark National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
See Lake Clark National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas:Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
See Lassen Volcanic National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Mammoth Cave National Park; however, it is mentioned in the compendium under camping to “not negatively impact the surrounding area and resources.”
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes, Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
See Mammoth Cave National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Mesa Verde National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
See Mesa Verde National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Mount Rainier National Park, Washington? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Mount Rainier National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Wilderness Permit required.
See Mount Rainier National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Campgrounds, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in New River Gorge National Park; however, camping is expected to leave resources undamaged.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
See New River Gorge National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in North Cascades National Park, Washington? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in North Cascades National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. A valid front-country Campground Permit is required for camping at Colonial Creek, Gorge Lake, Newhalem Creek, Goodell Creek and Upper and Lower Goodell Campgrounds.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Backcountry Use Permit required. Campers must camp on delineated tent pads where provided.
See North Cascades National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping Regulations, Backcountry, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Olympic National Park, Washington? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Olympic National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. A Wilderness Camping Permit (aka Backcountry Use Permit) is required for overnight stays in undeveloped (backcountry) areas of the park.
See Olympic National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping Regulations, Wilderness Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona? No, there are very few trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Petrified Forest National Park, but there are very few trees, and they’re fragile, at 80 to 100 years old they’re only 4-6 inches in diameter. Plus, there is no front country or dispersed camping allowed in the park, only backpacking/hiking into the designated Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area to spend the night. Hammocking should only be done using a stand or attaching to non-archeological rocks.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammocking is not prohibited, but you shouldn’t attach to trees here. Hammock camping is not allowed as there is no front country camping in the park.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not prohibited, but again, you shouldn’t, and for the most part, cannot attach to trees here with so few. The Backpacking Wilderness Permit is required for the backcountry.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or attach it to rocks that are not archeological sites.
See Petrified Forest National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backpacking Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Pinnacles National Park, California? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Pinnacles National Park; however, even though there are numerous tree species here including Oaks (in the canyonlands and open bottomlands) and Pines, among the spires and pinnacles, you’ll find mainly dense shrubs called Chaparral, and the slender Gray Pine with its soft wood and bark.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Pinnacles Campground is the only authorized overnight camping in the park. Oak trees are present at many campsites.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as there is no backcountry camping in the park.
See Pinnacles National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Redwood National Park, California? No, hammocking is prohibited.
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Redwood National Park. Setting up hammocks on any of the trees is not allowed due to tree bark damage.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammocking or hammock camping is not allowed.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammocking or hammock camping is not allowed. Backcountry Camping Permit required for overnight stays.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Redwood National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Developed Campgrounds, Backcountry Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado? Yes, but limited use.
There are specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in select campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park. Only Longs Peak Campground allows hammocking. Hammocks are only allowed within the designated footprint of the campsite and may not overhang or cause damage to vegetation. Hammock use is prohibited in Timber Creek Campground due to the lack of mature trees in the campground.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes, but hammocking is limited to Longs Peak Campground. Hammocking is not allowed in Aspenglen, Moraine Park, Glacier Basin and Timber Creek Campgrounds, as all “camp structures must be self standing without impacts to vegetation or trees.” There are no such regulations for Longs Peak Campground. Permit required for all overnight camping.
CAMPGROUNDS
• Aspenglen —No
• Glacier Basin—No
• Longs Peak—Yes
• Moraine Park—No
• Timber Creek —No
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Wilderness Permit required.
PRO TIP: Use padding between your hammock strap and the tree to prevent damage. A towel or foam works well. Only hammock in the backcountry or Longs Peak Campground. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps.
See Rocky Mountain National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Campground Regulations, Wilderness Camping, Wilderness Designated Site Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Saguaro National Park, Arizona? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Saguaro National Park. You’ll find Oak and Pine trees starting at 5,000 feet elevation and up.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
EXCEPTION: Never hang from a cactus.
See Saguaro National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Camping, Wilderness Regulations, Wilderness Brochure, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Sequoia National Park, California? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Sequoia National Park. However, driving nails into trees or wrapping them with chains or wire is prohibited.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Wilderness Use Permit required.
PRO TIP: Avoid hanging on Giant Sequoia trees; though there are no regulations preventing you from hammocking in Sequoia National Park, these trees are only found on the western slope of the southern Sierra Nevada and so every effort is made to protect them from potential damage and for park visitors to view them undisturbed by other humans. It is best to avoid potentially damaging these trees, which is prohibited by the park.
See Sequoia National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Camping, Campground Regulations, Minimum Impact Restrictions, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Shenandoah National Park, Virginia? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Shenandoah National Park. However, putting nails in trees is prohibited.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. A free backcountry camping permit is required.
See Shenandoah National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Campground Regulations, Backcountry Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Per the Superintendent Compendium, “Tying or hanging any lines from trees, shrubs, signposts, etc., is prohibited. Exception, hammocks are allowed within the designated footprint of the campsite. Hammocks may not overhang or cause damage to vegetation.”
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in Cottonwood and Juniper Campgrounds. Frontcountry permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Free backcountry permit required.
PRO TIP: Use padding between your hammock strap and the tree to prevent damage. A towel or foam works well. We recommend using 2″ hammock straps.
See Theodore Roosevelt National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Impendium, Camping Regulations, Backcountry Camping Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Virgin Islands National Park, Virgin Islands? No, hammocking is prohibited 🚫
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Virgin Islands National Park. However, back in 2013 there were explicit regulations that prevented “The stapling, nailing, tying, or attaching any material to any vegetation, living or dead, or to utility poles and sign posts is prohibited.” Furthermore, the only designated campground in the park, Cinnamon Bay Beach Campground, states on their official website that tying anything to any trees is prohibited.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed. Cinnamon Bay Beach Campground is the only designated location for camping, and their website provides campsite rules that state “do not tie anything to any trees.”
Backcountry Camping: No. There is no backcountry camping in Virgin Islands National Park.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See Virgin Islands National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Cinnamon Bay Beach and Campground Campsite Rules, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Voyageurs National Park. Apart from tent and houseboat camping, the Superintendent Compendium states, “All other camping is allowed at designated and established tent sites.”
Designated Campgrounds/Areas:Yes. Hammock camping is allowed at designated and established tent sites. All campsites are only accessible by watercraft. Permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed at designated and established tent sites. Permit required.
See Voyageurs National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Frontcountry Camping, Backcountry Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in White Sands National Park, New Mexico? No, there are no trees.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in White Sands National Park. However, there are virtually no trees available for hammocking.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as camping is prohibited within the Park, except in the designated backcountry camping sites; there are also no trees in the front country for hammocking.
Backcountry Camping: No. Hammock camping is not allowed as backcountry camping is unavailable due to rehabilitation of camping sites. There is no date set for camping to resume. Permit required under normal circumstances. There are also no trees at camping sites in the backcountry for hammocking.
PRO TIP: Bring your own hammock stand or use an inflatable lounger instead.
See White Sands National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Wind Cave National Park. However, similar activities are prohibited from all park bridges and structures, from crossing a road or trail, and padding must be used to minimize damage to the trees.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed with restrictions.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed with restrictions. Free permit required.
See Wind Cave National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Campgrounds, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Alaska? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed in the only 2 designated campgrounds in the park: Kendesnii Campground (free, open all year around, and surrounded by trees) and the Jumbo Creek Campground.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
See Wrangell-St. Elias National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Yellowstone National Park, Idaho, Montana, And Wyoming? Yes.
There are no specific rules prohibiting the use of hammocks in Yellowstone National Park.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Camping permit required.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. Backcountry Permit required.
See Yellowstone National National Park Rules & Regulations, Superintendent Compendium, Backcountry Regulations, Camping, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Yosemite National Park, California? Yes, but with restrictions.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Yosemite National Park. You may attach hammocks in campgrounds as long as they do not create a hazardous condition and are padded to prevent damage to trees. Hammocks may not be attached to oak trees. Also, it must not cross a road or trail or cross over any lake or watercourse
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. You must use padding to prevent tree damage and cannot attach your hammock to an oak tree.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. You must use padding to prevent tree damage and cannot attach your hammock to an oak tree. Wilderness Permit required.
PRO TIP: You must use padding between your hammock strap and the tree to prevent damage. A towel or foam works well. Also, do not attach your hammock to an oak tree. We recommend 2″ hammock straps.
See Yosemite National National Park Rules & Regulations Superintendent Compendium, Campground Regulations, and Basic Information
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Can you hammock in Zion National Park, Utah? Yes, but there are few trees.
There are specific rules permitting the use of hammocks in Zion National Park. Hammocks are only permitted within the established footprint of a campsite. Trees with a minimum diameter of 10 inches should be used and adequate padding must be between the straps and bark to prevent injury to the tree.
Designated Campgrounds/Areas: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed. In Zion Canyon Campgrounds, South Campground and Wasatch Campground, there are few trees, yet “Hammocks are allowed but are limited to the footprint of the campsite” and adequate padding must be used between the strap and the tree. However, “hammocks are not allowed in group sites.” And there are no specific rules prohibiting hammocking in Lava Point Campground, which has Pine and Aspen trees around its campsites.
Backcountry Camping: Yes. Hammock camping is allowed.
PRO TIP: You must use padding between your hammock strap and the tree to prevent damage. A towel or foam works well. You must hammock within the footprint of your campsite. We recommend 2″ hammock straps.
See Zion National National Park Rules & Regulations, Campgrounds, Watchman Campground & Regulations, South Campground, Lava Point Campground, and Basic Information
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