When heading out with the family to go camping, it can seem almost natural to pack a firearm as well. However, it can be a bit more complicated than taking the gun out of its safe and simply slipping a pistol into a backpack. When one plans to camp on federal or state land, the rules and regulations surrounding gun use can change.

For example, federal law states that you are able to carry guns inside of national parks, though a concealed weapons permit is still a requirement for concealed carry. However, people are not allowed to use firearms inside of any national park. They are still able to carry them for self-defense, but target practice, hunting and recreational shooting in general are against the law on these public lands.

It can be tricky to know exactly what is acceptable and what is not; individuals should be sure to research what the rules are for their particular area before taking their firearms on their next camping trip.

Guns are likely best left in the gun safe at home unless one is going camping in an area with a shooting range, or on private property where the landowner allows shooting to take place. As always, common safety practices should be enforced any time one takes their gun out of the home.