USFS (and alikes) safety?

We're newbies that have only camped in a couple forest service campgrounds, but never thought twice about leaving for the day to hike the surrounding parks. Are you thinking about boondocking on forest service lands or camping in USFS campgrounds? We haven't boondocked yet, but are looking forward to it!

The one at Serando lake, right off the Blue Ridge parkway was good never had a concern.

Thanks for the feedback guys. Should I be more concerned about leaving the trailer in boondocking locations vs campgrounds? Are there any rangers or security driving in these areas?

Some of the commercial campgrounds, with long term people living in defunct trailers, probably using drugs and are just poor trash people, pose a much greater risk than most government operations.

I've spent many nights in USFS campgrounds, and have never had a problem with anything being bothered by people or wildlife.

If you don't put up your food correctly, it WILL attract bears, raccoons, squirrels, etc.

USFS campgrounds aLand between the Lakes in Kentucky are some of the better ones. We feel as safe there as anywhere. And much safer than in some private campgrounds. But it depends a lot on where you are going. In most campgrounds, with other RVs around, are some of the safest places around, because people look out for each other. I wil be the first to admit though, we have seen places that not only would I not leave anything unprotected, I wouldn't ever get out of the rig! The only time we have ever been worried was in a state park campground when we were the only ones there in a remote, and DARK area!

We have never had issues with USFS, BLM or Corp of engineer parks.
We do not leave "gifts" for quick crooks. Satellight dish has stainless cable tether. Secure your hitch if left at site.
Some items I wish they would take! Had left garbage out at commercial locations and someone took it and it wasn't the park people!

Never had a problem at any sites, whether organized or not. Always be aware of your site, if you're not comfortable being there, while you're there. Don't leave anything unattended.

The OFF-ROAD places around here in the local NATL FOREST Areas are patrolled by rangers. Most all of the areas have forest service roads... The places we like to camp at are somewhat popular and sometimes get abit crowded. One in particular is a popular 4WD Jeep trail...

I will admit however there is more foot traffic of late not seen much in the past. Makes one think that maybe some folks are actually living back in these woods...

One must keep a watchful eye in these trying times...

When I was camping out West in the large dispersed area of High Country Arizona back in the 60s you would go for days and never see another person...

I used go out and stay for many days by myself when I was younger but now old age has creeped up on me and sadly I have to admit I am much more cautious of my surroundings...

Roy Ken

WE-C-USA wrote:
Never had a problem at any sites, whether organized or not. Always be aware of your site, if you're not comfortable being there, while you're there. Don't leave anything unattended.

We haven't either after 30 years of camping. But use common sense. The 'Rainbow Tribe' took over some CG in the Ocala NF. That would not be a good time to camp near there. Look around and if it doesn't look safe, leave.