Weird State Park Rules: A Hilarious Look at Unusual Park Laws

Charles (Chuck) Sieber

1/14/2025

Okay, adventurers, get ready to chuckle! I've been digging into the wonderful world of state park regulations, and let me tell you, some of these are WILD. Turns out, keeping our parks pristine and safe involves some pretty specific – and sometimes downright funny – rules.

Fishing with Explosives? Think Again!

Ever thought about spicing up your fishing trip with a little dynamite? Well, hold your horses (and your explosives!). In Florida, fishing with explosives is a big no-no. I mean, duh, right? Imagine the poor fish! And the ecosystem! This Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission takes their fishing seriously, folks. So, stick to the rods and reels.

Don't Feed the Gators! Louisiana's Wise Advice

Down in Louisiana, they’re serious about alligator safety. No feeding the gators! I get it, those toothy grins can be tempting, but trust me, you don't want to end up as a gator snack. Plus, it’s dangerous for the alligators too. They get habituated to humans and might start associating us with food, which never ends well. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has a lot more info on alligator safety.

Bigfoot Hunting: Not on the Agenda in Washington

Heading to Washington State? Keep your Bigfoot hunting gear at home! Seriously, in Skamania County, they've actually got an ordinance against hunting Sasquatch. While it’s more about protecting the mythical creature (and probably preventing hordes of Bigfoot hunters from trampling the wilderness), it’s still pretty hilarious. Imagine the park ranger’s report: “ apprehended one Bigfoot hunter, confiscated one oversized butterfly net.” Check out more about Skamania County here.

No Waterfall Diving: Safety First in South Carolina

And speaking of keeping things safe, in South Carolina's Table Rock State Park, diving off waterfalls is a definite don’t. Picture this: you, majestic waterfall, graceful leap…splat! Yeah, rocks are hard. Stick to admiring the cascading beauty from a safe distance. For more information on Table Rock State Park rules, check out the South Carolina State Parks website.

Clothing Optional? Not in Arkansas' Hot Springs!

Planning a romantic getaway to Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas? Leave the birthday suit at home! Nudity in the hot springs is prohibited. Soaking in the therapeutic waters is definitely encouraged, but keep it PG, people. More info on Hot Springs National Park can be found on the National Park Service Website.

Leave the Antlers: Wyoming's Wildlife Protection

Over in Wyoming, you can’t just scoop up those fallen antlers you stumble upon. They’re part of the ecosystem! So admire them, photograph them, but leave them be. For more information on Wyoming’s state park rules, visit the Wyoming State Parks website.

Hold Your Fire! No Snowball Fights in Illinois

Thinking of a wintery escape to Starved Rock State Park in Illinois? Leave your snowball arsenal behind. Snowball fights are forbidden! Apparently, park officials aren’t fans of frozen projectiles whizzing through the air. I guess it could get a bit chaotic. Check out more on Starved Rock here.

Worm Charming Waits: No Digging in Minnesota

Finally, if you're visiting Gooseberry Falls State Park in Minnesota and have a sudden urge to dig for worms, resist! It's against the rules! I guess they want to protect the soil and the little wriggly guys. Learn more about Gooseberry Falls here.