Might be kind of a silly question, but I figure better safe than sorry. I'm just curious if it is somehow prohibited to hike off designated trails in a state park area in the US. I've already checked my states rules and regulations, and it didn't mention anything specifically, but I'm not sure if maybe it's some kind of "common sense" rule or something. A couple of friends and I just want to explore the local state forest area, and I just want to make sure we won't get in trouble for doing so. So, does anyone know if this is allowed?

I've done it quite a few times. We have a lot of state parks around where I live and often times we'll go geocaching and it will take us to a discrete part of the wilderness. However with that said, I'm sure states are different. I'm only speaking about Wisconsin. You could check out the geocaching website and see if there are any in the park. :shrug:

Try asking the guy at the desk when you buy a ticket in....

You can hike off trails but thwy are there for easy access.

Nobody is on duty this time of the year (I don't think I've seen anyone on duty in quite a while actually)... The state parks don't get the funding they used to around here. I'm assuming it's okay, and I'm just being a nervous nelly about it.

Try caling up your department/agency they shoild have thw answers which people do wjen I am at tpwd

Will...do bliviongate:

Phone typing again?

I find myself following his posts just to see what he messes up with his "phone typing".

<3 Terash

Yup the best time to call a state department is before 4:30 pm...
Typewith my thumbs or with my index finger using swype

Hehe...

Pretty much what to do. Some areas can be closed due to wildlife seasonal, ermm... Occupational "duties", or "pest" problems. Other reasons could be wildflower blooms, etc. Generally it's okay to wander from trails, but pitching camp any where outside of designated areas can pose a heavy fine. Best to check the local station for current advisories.

make sure you bring a gun or knife encase a bear wants to cuddle

I miss that guy that said he goes hunting grizzly bears and deer with a hunting knife.

I'm sure your better running away from a bear, than running at it with a knife. For legal and physical reasons.

its legal to kill things that attack you i think in oklahoma i gotta brush up though

Talk to the rangers at the park, if you run into trouble, the county is going to have to cover the cost of rescuing you. Trails are marked for reasons of safety, both landform and wildlife interaction.
As for bears, avoid them, if attacked, assume a kneeling postion, put head under torso as much as possible and cover scalp with hands.
ALthernatively, you can bend over and kiss your ass goodbye, bear maulings are notortiously difficult to survive. They can literally bite your skull.