Is hunting legal on the Blue Ridge Parkway?
Common Question:
My buddies and I are planning a trip to North Carolina this fall and would like to know if you could tell us where the best hunting spots are along the parkway?
Answer:
The Blue Ridge Parkway like all national parks is managed as a wildlife preserve and hunting is not permitted anywhere within its boundaries.
The Parkway offers special permits to individuals who wish to access U.S. Forest Service land for the purpose of hunting. The permit allows access only from certain Parkway overlooks, and the conditions of the permit must be followed exactly. Information on the Hunter Parking Permit program is available at local ranger offices, from rangers in the field, and from park headquarters.
National Park Service regulations state: As of February 22, 2010, a new federal law allows people who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws, to legally possess firearms in this park. It is the responsibility of visitors to understand and comply with all applicable state, local, and federal firearms laws before entering this park. Federal law also prohibits firearms in certain facilities in this park; those places are marked with signs at all public entrances. Check state regulations for Virginia or North Carolina to make certain of your compliance while in the park. Read more from the NPS.
For more information visit our Blue Ridge Parkway Regulations page.
Yes you will need a special permit, please contact Parkway headquarters for more information. Their number is 828-271-4779.
planning to hunt on national forest in virginia but under stand i will need a parking permit to cross parkway boundary.