National Forests seek input on New Stay Limits

The Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests (FMS) are continuing to seek public input on proposed changes to camping stay limits across the forests. Stay limits are implemented to reduce impacts, ensure camping for recreational rather than residential purposes, as well as providing access to popular campsite areas for other visitors. The current FMS Forest Order for camping stay limits reads, “Establishing, maintaining, or using a campsite shall be limited to a period not to exceed 14 consecutive days. After 14 days, the designated recreation area must be vacated for at least four days.” The proposed replacement order reads, “Prohibit camping on the FMS in excess of 14 days in any 30-day period, unless the campsite has been posted with different stay limits by the Forest Service.” The public has until July 20, 2018, to provide comments on the proposed changes. Submit your comments using this link: https://www.fs.usda.gov/contactus/scnfs/about-forest/contactus or call 803-561-4000. Please write “FMS Stay Limits” in the subject line of your electronic submission.