What’s Actually Banned in National Parks? Here’s What You Need to Know

Planning a trip to a national park? One of the first things you’ll want to check is what you’re allowed to bring.

Some banned items are obvious, like fireworks or drugs, but others catch people off guard. And while there are federal rules that apply across the entire National Park System, each park also has its own list of site-specific restrictions.

That’s where things can get a little confusing.

Here’s a no-nonsense breakdown of what’s prohibited and how rules shift depending on the park or the occasion.

General Camping and Visitor Rules

All U.S. national parks follow the Code of Federal Regulations (specifically, 36 CFR Parts 1 through 7). Think of this as the base layer of rules that apply no matter which park you’re visiting. Beyond that, each park publishes something called a Superintendent’s Compendium, which is basically a set of add-on rules for that location.

So what’s banned everywhere? Here’s the general list:

Items Prohibited Across All National Parks

• Explosives and fireworks: Anything from sparklers to blasting caps is off-limits unless you’re part of an authorized event.
• Illegal drugs: That includes marijuana – even if it’s legal in your state. Federal land = federal law.
• Weapons:
  • Firearms are allowed in many parks if they’re permitted under state law, but they can’t be carried into federal buildings.
  • Other weapons like silencers, machine guns, and explosives are never okay.
• Drones and unmanned aircraft: These are banned in almost every situation unless you’ve got written permission.
• Wildlife harassment: You can’t use traps, poisons, or anything else that might disturb animals or damage the environment.
• Hazardous materials: Paint thinner, turpentine, and fuel are only allowed if used properly, for example, in a camp stove with approved storage.

These aren’t just campground rules; they apply even if you’re hiking, picnicking, or just passing through.

Examples of Park-Specific Restrictions

Each national park builds on the federal rules with its own site-specific policies. Parks tailor their restrictions based on local wildlife, visitor safety, and conservation needs.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• No fireworks, animal traps, or chainsaws
• Bicycles are fine on designated roads and areas only
• No skateboards, scooters, or inline skates

Mammoth Cave National Park

• Pets must stay on a leash and can’t be left alone for more than an hour
• Firearms are allowed in general areas but not inside cave tours, buildings, or on shuttle buses
• Banned weapons include air rifles, slingshots, and even blowguns
• Alcohol is permitted in campgrounds and picnic areas only, but only for legal adults

Yellowstone National Park

• No food or drinks in thermal areas unless it stays in your backpack
• Bear spray is not just permitted, it’s encouraged, but it must meet IGBC standards (look for the label)

Sequoia & Kings Canyon

• Drones are completely banned without a special permit
• Bear lockers must be used for all food storage – no tossing snacks in the car or tent
• Generators are allowed, but only during designated hours and in approved campgrounds

Arches National Park

• Lighting is restricted to safety needs only. Using bright lights to light up the landscape isn’t allowed
• No hammocks or clotheslines tied to trees or structures (you can only attach them to tents or tarps)

Key Takeaways

Most of the time, you can bring typical camping gear like chairs, coolers, tents, and cooking supplies. However, you should always verify a few things ahead of time:

• Weapons and explosives are heavily restricted. Even legal firearms have limitations based on where you’re standing.
• Food storage rules can vary dramatically, especially in bear country.
• Drones, amplified sound, and bright lighting are common targets of park restrictions.
• Generator use is often limited to set hours and specific campgrounds.
• Some parks have length restrictions for RVs or trailers. Check road and campground limitations before you arrive, as many sites can’t accommodate rigs over 30 or 35 feet.

Special Rules for Events

The National Park Service tightens rules quite a bit during large-scale public events. These restrictions are temporary and apply within secured areas.

Commonly Banned Items During Events

• Large backpacks, bags, and coolers
• Alcohol and glass bottles
• All weapons, including pocket knives and pepper spray
• Non-ADA chairs, tripods, and umbrellas with pointed tips
• Banners, signs, poles, sticks, and selfie sticks
• Drones, laser pointers, and amplified sound devices

These limits are meant to help manage crowds and reduce safety risks. Once the event ends, normal park rules resume.

Before You Go

Don’t rely on news posts (yes, the irony) or old forums to tell you what’s allowed. Instead, go directly to the source: the Superintendent’s Compendium for the park you’re visiting. They’re available online on most park websites.

Still not sure? Reach out to the park directly or check the NPS official website. A quick phone call or email can save you from being turned away at the gate, or worse, fined.