Minnesota (more states to be added later)
Summary of Basic Laws that are commonly communicated in brochures and handouts
Minnesota State Park Rules
http://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/rules.html
This is a partial listing of state park rules and regulations. Complete rules (Minnesota State Legislature Web site).
Park hours
8 a.m. to 10 p.m., 365 days a year. Office hours vary by season.
State park permit
All vehicles entering a state park must display a valid Minnesota State Park vehicle permit which must be affixed to the lower right hand corner of the windshield. Annual and day permits can be purchased at a park. Funds from state park vehicle permits and fees are used to help manage park resources and facilities. Information on purchasing an annual permit. Other fee information.
Accessibility
In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, state parks are working to make facilities accessible to people of all abilities. Call the specific state park you are planning to visit for up-to-date information on accessibility.
Alcohol/drugs
It is unlawful for any person to consume intoxicating liquors, or to display liquor containers in public. State laws apply to possession and use of drugs.
Biking
Biking is permitted only on designated trails or park roads where motor vehicles are allowed, unless otherwise posted.
Campers
Campers must register at the office or self-registration station. Only registered campers are allowed in the park after 10 p.m.
Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Check in/check out
Overnight guests must check out by 4 p.m. If you choose to stay another day in the campground or park lodging, you must re-register by 11 a.m.
Firewood
Gathering firewood disrupts the forest and soil cycle and is not permitted. Firewood may be purchased at the park office.
Fireworks
Fireworks are not permitted in state parks.
Fishing
When fishing in waters entirely within state parks, anglers must comply with Minnesota fishing laws and rules.
Flotation devices
In a state park, while in the water, use of air mattresses, inner tubes or other flotation devices that are not approved by the Coast Guard is prohibited except when used in an area specifically designated for that use.
Geocaching
Geocaching is allowed in Minnesota State Parks, State Recreation Areas and Waysides managed by the DNR Division of Parks and Recreation. All caches placed in these locations require a signed permit prior to placement. Permit applications and geocaching guidelines are available at the park office or online at http://www.mnstateparks.info/.
Hunting
Hunting is prohibited in state parks unless authorized by the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources.
Metal detectors
Use of metal detectors is prohibited.
Parking
Parking on the grass is not allowed. Park in designated areas only and on the parking spaces provided in the campground.
Pets
Pets are welcome in state parks but must be kept on a leash of not more than six feet and must be personally attended at all times. No pets other than hearing or seeing-eye dogs or other service animals are allowed in state park buildings, lodging, cabins, camper cabins, on tours or in beach areas.
Research
Easy access and abundant natural features make Minnesota State Parks perfect for a variety of resource-related research projects. Research permits are required before studies can be undertaken in state parks. For more information on doing research in state parks, e-mail Ed Quinn at ed.quinn@dnr.state.mn.us. Download an application for a state park research permit. Read more about research in state parks.
Rock climbing
Rock climbing in state parks is allowed only in designated areas and only by permit. Permits are available at the park office.
Skiing
When using groomed trails in parks, skiers 16 years of age and older, must have in their possession, a valid Minnesota ski pass.
Snowmobiles
Snowmobiles in state parks can be operated only on designated trails or posted areas.
Snowshoes
Snowshoeing is allowed anywhere in state parks except on groomed trails or where posted.
Weapons
It is unlawful for any person to possess explosives of any kind. It is also against the law for any person to possess a firearm (including an air gun) unless the firearm is unloaded and completely contained in a fully enclosed gun case or unloaded and contained in the closed trunk of a vehicle. A person who is legally permitted under MS 624.714 to carry a handgun in the State of Minnesota, may legally carry that handgun in State parks.
Communication found on State Park Maps,
handed out to campers upon entering the park.
(For example http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/maps/state_parks/spk00172_summer.pdf)
Goosberry Falls State Park Brochure uses this language:
SO EVERYONE CAN ENJOY THE PARK...
• The park belongs to all Minnesotans. Treat it with respect and consideration.
• For your safety and the safety of others, please be careful while exploring the falls area and the park.
• Pets must be kept on a leash not longer than six feet.
• Enjoy the animals, but do not approach or feed them.
• Leave rocks and plants where they are. They make up much of the park’s beauty. Do not Collect them.
• Except for registered campers, the park is closed from 10:00 P.M. until 8:00 A.M.
Loud noises or other disturbances are prohibited after 10:00 P.M. • Park only in designated parking areas.
• Park permits are not required for the visitor center/wayside rest area. However, to drive to other areas in the park, a vehicle permit is required. Permits are available for purchase at visitor center and camper registration office
Father Hennepin State Park brochure uses this language (even better):
• In camping areas, the hours between 10:00 P.M. and 8:00 A.M. are for outdoor solitude. Noise levels above a quiet conversation are prohibited.