Can You Open Carry A Firearm In Yellowstone National Park?
Can You Open Carry A Firearm In Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is a vast and majestic landscape, home to a wide variety of wildlife, from bears and bison to wolves and elk. It’s also a popular destination for hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. But what about those who want to carry a firearm in the park? Is it allowed?
The answer is: it depends.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the rules and regulations surrounding open carry in Yellowstone National Park. We’ll also discuss the pros and cons of carrying a firearm in the park, and provide some tips for those who decide to do so.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone, and you’re wondering about the firearm laws, read on!
| Can You Open Carry A Firearm In Yellowstone National Park? | Yes | No |
|—|—|—|
| Federal law allows for the open carry of firearms in national parks | X | |
| However, individual states may have more restrictive laws | | X |
| Yellowstone National Park is located in Wyoming, which does not allow for the open carry of firearms | | X |
Federal Law on Carrying Firearms in National Parks
The federal law on carrying firearms in national parks is governed by the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990 (GFSZA). The GFSZA prohibits the possession of firearms in any school zone, which is defined as:
- Any place within 1,000 feet of the real property comprising a school
- Any place that is used for school purposes
- Any place that is adjacent to or in close proximity to a school
The GFSZA also prohibits the possession of firearms in any place that is used for the sale or distribution of firearms.
Specific Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park
In addition to the general restrictions on carrying firearms in national parks imposed by the GFSZA, there are also specific restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park. These restrictions are set forth in 36 CFR 2.4.
- Firearms must be unloaded and encased while in a vehicle. This means that firearms must be in a locked container that cannot be opened without a key or other tool.
- Firearms must be carried in a holster or other carrying device that is attached to the body. This means that firearms cannot be carried in a backpack or other bag.
- Firearms cannot be discharged in the park. This includes discharging firearms for hunting, target shooting, or any other purpose.
Exceptions to the Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park
There are a few exceptions to the restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park. These exceptions are:
- Law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers are authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park.
- Qualified hunters. Qualified hunters are authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park during hunting season.
- Other persons with a valid permit. Other persons may be authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park if they have a valid permit issued by the National Park Service.
State Law on Carrying Firearms in National Parks
The state law on carrying firearms in national parks is governed by the Wyoming Firearms Act. The Wyoming Firearms Act allows for the open carry of firearms in most places, including national parks. However, there are a few exceptions to this rule.
- Firearms must be unloaded and encased while in a vehicle. This means that firearms must be in a locked container that cannot be opened without a key or other tool.
- Firearms must be carried in a holster or other carrying device that is attached to the body. This means that firearms cannot be carried in a backpack or other bag.
- Firearms cannot be discharged in the park. This includes discharging firearms for hunting, target shooting, or any other purpose.
Specific Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park under State Law
In addition to the general restrictions on carrying firearms in national parks imposed by the Wyoming Firearms Act, there are also specific restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park under state law. These restrictions are set forth in Wyo. Stat. Ann. 6-2-101.
- Firearms are prohibited in certain areas of the park, including buildings, campgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Firearms are prohibited from being carried by persons who have been convicted of a felony or who are under indictment for a felony.
- Firearms are prohibited from being carried by persons who are intoxicated.
Exceptions to the Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park under State Law
There are a few exceptions to the restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park under state law. These exceptions are:
- Law enforcement officers. Law enforcement officers are authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park.
- Qualified hunters. Qualified hunters are authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park during hunting season.
- Other persons with a valid permit. Other persons may be authorized to carry firearms in Yellowstone National Park if they have a valid permit issued by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
The federal law and state law on carrying firearms in national parks are complex. It is important to be aware of the specific restrictions that apply in Yellowstone National Park before you decide to carry a firearm in the park.
Additional Resources
- Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990 (GFSZA)
- 36 CFR 2.4
- Wyoming Firearms Act
- Wyo. Stat. Ann. 6-2-101
- Yellowstone National Park website
3. Local Law on Carrying Firearms in National Parks
Overview of Local Law on Carrying Firearms in National Parks
The National Firearms Act of 1934 (NFA) is a federal law that regulates the manufacture, sale, transfer, possession, and use of firearms and ammunition. The NFA does not preempt state and local laws on carrying firearms, so states and localities are free to establish their own laws on carrying firearms.
Most states have laws that allow individuals to carry firearms in public, but there are often restrictions on where and how firearms can be carried. For example, many states prohibit the carrying of firearms in government buildings, schools, and places of worship.
National parks are federal lands, so the NFA applies to them. However, states and localities can also establish their own laws on carrying firearms in national parks.
Specific Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park under Local Law
The state of Wyoming has a law that allows individuals to carry firearms in public, but there are some restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park. These restrictions include:
- Firearms must be unloaded and carried in a case or holster.
- Firearms cannot be carried in government buildings, schools, or places of worship.
- Firearms cannot be carried in areas where hunting is prohibited.
In addition to these state laws, Yellowstone National Park has its own set of regulations on carrying firearms. These regulations include:
- Firearms must be registered with the park superintendent.
- Firearms must be kept in a locked container when not in use.
- Firearms cannot be discharged in the park, except in self-defense.
Exceptions to the Restrictions on Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park under Local Law
There are a few exceptions to the restrictions on carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park. These exceptions include:
- Law enforcement officers are allowed to carry firearms in the park.
- Hunters are allowed to carry firearms in the park during hunting season.
- Individuals who have a valid permit to carry a concealed weapon are allowed to carry firearms in the park.
4. Practical Considerations for Carrying Firearms in Yellowstone National Park
When is it appropriate to carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park?
There are a few factors to consider when deciding whether or not to carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park. These factors include:
- Your personal safety
- The safety of others
- The laws and regulations governing the carrying of firearms in the park
If you are concerned about your personal safety, you may want to consider carrying a firearm in Yellowstone National Park. However, you should be aware that carrying a firearm in the park can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
You should also consider the safety of others when deciding whether or not to carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park. If you are not comfortable with the idea of carrying a firearm around other people, you should probably leave your firearm at home.
Finally, you should be aware of the laws and regulations governing the carrying of firearms in Yellowstone National Park. If you are not familiar with these laws, you should do some research before you decide to carry a firearm in the park.
Where is it legal to carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park?
Firearms are allowed in Yellowstone National Park, but they must be carried in a case or holster and unloaded. Firearms cannot be carried in government buildings, schools, or places of worship. Firearms cannot be carried in areas where hunting is prohibited.
In addition to these general restrictions, there are also a few specific areas in Yellowstone National Park where firearms are prohibited. These areas include:
- The Old Faithful Inn
- The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel
- The Yellowstone Lake Hotel
- The Canyon Village Lodge
How should you carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park?
There are a few things you should keep in mind when carrying a firearm in Yellowstone National Park. These include:
- Make sure your firearm is unloaded and in a case or holster.
- Keep your firearm out of sight of other people.
- Be aware of the laws and regulations governing the carrying of firearms in the park.
- Be prepared to explain to law enforcement officers why you are carrying a firearm.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that you are carrying your firearm safely and legally in Yellowstone National Park.
Carrying a firearm in Yellowstone National Park is a personal decision. There are a number of factors to consider when making this decision, including your personal safety, the safety of others, and the laws and regulations governing the carrying of firearms in the park. If you decide to carry a firearm in the park, you should make sure that you are
Can you open carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park?
No, you cannot open carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park. The National Park Service prohibits the possession of firearms in all park units, including Yellowstone. This includes both open carry and concealed carry.
What are the exceptions to the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park?
There are two exceptions to the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park. First, individuals who are licensed to carry a concealed weapon in their home state may carry their weapon in Yellowstone, provided that they keep it concealed. Second, law enforcement officers may carry their firearms while on duty.
What are the penalties for violating the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park?
Anyone who violates the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park may be charged with a criminal offense. The penalties for violating the firearms ban include fines, imprisonment, and/or loss of hunting and fishing privileges.
What should I do if I see someone carrying a firearm in Yellowstone National Park?
If you see someone carrying a firearm in Yellowstone National Park, you should immediately report it to a park ranger.
Where can I get more information about the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park?
For more information about the firearms ban in Yellowstone National Park, you can visit the National Park Service website.
the answer to the question of whether or not you can open carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park is yes, you can. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind. First, you must be at least 18 years old to open carry a firearm in Yellowstone. Second, you must have a valid permit to carry a concealed weapon in the state of Wyoming. Third, you must follow all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding the possession and use of firearms. Finally, you must be aware of the potential risks associated with open carrying a firearm in Yellowstone, such as the possibility of an accidental discharge or a confrontation with another person. By following these guidelines, you can safely and legally open carry a firearm in Yellowstone National Park.