Considering National Parks are vast, outdoor areas, some may be surprised by the strict smoking policy within them. Movements to make national parks smoke free have started world wide, and U.S. National Parks have tightened regulations regarding smoking tobacco cigarettes and cigars. The regulations come from two concerns: second-hand smoke and fire hazards.
What about smoking Marijuana? In short, it's illegal. National Parks are federal land, and Marijuana has not been legalized federally. Even if you are visiting a national park within a state that has legalized, or decriminalized, the substance, you can get in serious legal trouble by bringing it into the park.
Here's everywhere you can smoke in a National Park:
In an enclosed vehicle
Designated campgrounds
Picnic areas where wood or charcoal fires are allowed
Paved developed outdoor areas, like sidewalks
Designated smoking areas
Long story short, be mindful of others and the environment while smoking, and in general, when visiting National Parks.
Stay up to date on the latest info from The Park Helper by following us on Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and by Joining Our Newsletter!