State Park CC - Questions

[pamountainman]

Please delete this thread

[fingers80002]

A few years ago I rented a cabin at Ricketts Glen State Park so we could hike the Glen area. I had my gun with me and it was in my truck when I checked in. I was not aware at that time that CC was illegal in a state park. I was so surprised while checking in when the ranger asked me if I had a firearm. No one at any other park had ever asked. I did not know why she had asked or what the repercussions would be, so I said no (this didn't set right with me, but I was not sure). This incident is the major reason that I have taken it upon myself to learn everything that I can about CC in PA.

So with the new law, I have two questions:

1) Is it legal for the ranger to ask if I have a firearm and how should I answer.??

2) Under what circumstances in a state park should I be legally required to provide my LTCF and to whom?? (example - if I am checking/registering in to a state park, can the ranger arbitrarily ask for my LTCF)......???

I can see a whole lot of different scenerios with the above questions......

pamountainman

I'm sure one of the more proficient people will post, but I believe, it would be like any other encounter.
If they don't see it, why would they ask?

[mrwildroot]

Bump to top...
I too would like more info on this subject...
With our new ability to carry in Federal Parks, shouldn't we also gain legal access to state parks as well?
Thanks,
mrwildroot

[gnbrotz]

Bump to top...
I too would like more info on this subject...
With our new ability to carry in Federal Parks, shouldn't we also gain legal access to state parks as well?
Thanks,
mrwildroot

Not necessarily. Both recently changed here in Pennsylvania, but through separate actions. Our state legislature took action to strike down a "rule" put in place by DCNR. The change in National Parks happened because the Dept. of Interior/NPS also made a rule change.

However, the NPS rule change doesn't automatically mean you can legally carry in a state park in your home state. You need to check your local laws to determine what's legal for you.

[mrwildroot]

Thanks Greg,

I'm good to go here in NC, but have spent alot of time in PA State Parks, so was interested in just the changes you stated.
My complements to PA for making good choices!
Hope all is well with you,
mrwildroot

[CZ40P]

A few years ago I rented a cabin at Ricketts Glen State Park so we could hike the Glen area. I had my gun with me and it was in my truck when I checked in. I was not aware at that time that CC was illegal in a state park. I was so surprised while checking in when the ranger asked me if I had a firearm. No one at any other park had ever asked. I did not know why she had asked or what the repercussions would be, so I said no (this didn't set right with me, but I was not sure). This incident is the major reason that I have taken it upon myself to learn everything that I can about CC in PA.

So with the new law, I have two questions:

1) Is it legal for the ranger to ask if I have a firearm and how should I answer.??

2) Under what circumstances in a state park should I be legally required to provide my LTCF and to whom?? (example - if I am checking/registering in to a state park, can the ranger arbitrarily ask for my LTCF)......???

I can see a whole lot of different scenerios with the above questions......

pamountainman

The question here is really about DNCR rangers. Are they considered law enforcement?. I am pretty sure the UFA states you must produce your permit if a LEO asks to see it.

Having said that you are under no obligation to talk to any LEO. It is only against the law to lie to the FEDS.( Ask Marta Stewart) When it comes to a federal officer you are better saying nothing.

If I happened upon NPS property while photographing trains at Steamtown, I would keep my yap shut, if asked.

As for a PA state park. But you broke no law by lying to them.

In Pa it is only illegal to give a leo false ID info, or file a false report.
You can not be arrested for not incriminating yourself.

[gnbrotz]

I am pretty sure the UFA states you must produce your permit if a LEO asks to see it.

Nope.

§6122. Proof of License and Exception.

(a) General rule.-When carrying a firearm concealed on or about one's person or in a vehicle, an individual licensed to carry a firearm shall, upon lawful demand of a law enforcement officer, produce the license for inspection.

There is a big difference between your statement and the legal obligation.

[Mtbkski]

Does the Park Ranger have a right to ask for your LTCF if he would see that your carrying. (Shirt rides up or something). He isn't an LEO. What powers does he have? I had never thought about this before.

[Ja86son]

So state park carry is legal now? I've heard rumors of changes but im not sure. i do spend lots of time in and around state parks when i go camping up north and have not carried in the past because of it...so now its no big deal?

[God's Country]

So state park carry is legal now? I've heard rumors of changes but im not sure. i do spend lots of time in and around state parks when i go camping up north and have not carried in the past because of it...so now its no big deal?

carry and be merry!