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profdant139's avatar
profdant139
Explorer II
Aug 29, 2018

Interactive Nat Forest map -- very useful!

You've probably already seen this, but if not, it is a great resource for boondocking. You can zoom in pretty far and see the individual forest roads, in most places. Then, you can download the corresponding Motor Vehicle Use Map from the local ranger districts to see where dispersed camping is permitted.

I use this map from time to time, but it seems to me that they must have recently upgraded their server or something -- the zooming and panning is a lot easier than it was just a few months ago, I think.

Anyway, here's the link:

The map
  • I wish the BLM would publish the equivalent.

    Thanks for the link, as I was not aware of it. I was able to convert their map to a Geo-Pdf, and use that in the Avenza Maps app.
  • Unfortunately, there is no way to mark locations -- I open the forest service map and Google Earth and then drop waypoints on Google Earth to correspond to the other map. Very tedious.

    And then I cross-check against the Motor Vehicle Use Maps. Also a lot of work.
  • An improvement for sure and has brief description of campground. Doesn’t show my location however as Forest Maps app does. I need that when I get off on those little dirt roads.
  • How long has that map been available? I love it. I have forwarded that site to my two daughters that camp.
  • Thanks! Very useful and informative map.

    I did the survey asking that it would be nice if there was a layer they could add that showed current fire restrictions. Currently, they only have a fire activity layer and a few other unrelated layers..
  • Does appear to be improved. Found a road in the Parashant that I didn't know was there. Have to go see if it's real now --. On the other hand, no way to mark locations? Or did I miss that?
  • Wow, thanks for sharing this specially for me who prefer national park/forest and state parks for my camping.

    I've used their site-specific maps but yours actually zoom in and out for a look on total US, state and down to locale.

    Appreciate it and in fact pinning this down.

    You are now officially my best RV forum/camping friend.

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