State Land Squatter: NY Camper Slapped with Three Tickets & Eviction Notice

You can't camp on State land in New York without a permit, especially if you've been there for more than a month.

One camper was given several tickets and asked to move along after two Forest Rangers were called in to investigate an illegal camping complaint in Beebe Hill State Forest.

A tent was discovered just off the trail and it looked like someone had been there awhile. Trash was spread around and a lit propane space heater was discovered. But no camper could be found.

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The Rangers returned the next day to check on the site and found someone walking to the camp. When questioned, the individual claimed to have been living out of the tent for more than a month.

The camper was given three tickets for camping within 150 feet of a trail, failure to maintain a neat and sanitary campsite, and camping for four nights or more without a permit. They were also asked to clean up the site and move on.

10 Tickets for Illegal Camping

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Forest Rangers were called to Tupper Lake in Franklin County for two illegal camps on state land - one at Underwood Bridge and another at Big Tupper Lake.

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Rangers Evict Illegal Camper

It took three Rangers to evict the camper who had set up a makeshift tent using a couple of large tarps and a stick to hold it up in the middle. The primitive structure was big enough for a few folding chairs and some clothes.

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Primitive Camping Permitted

Primitive camping is allowed in New York State. Campsites must be at least 150 feet from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. However, campers spending more than three nights or in groups of more than ten people do need a permit.

From the looks of things, this camp has been set up for longer than three days.

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10 Tickets

The camper was given 10 tickets including camping for four or more nights without a permit, storing personal property on State land, cutting down trees, leaving rubbish, and leaving a fire unattended.

Each ticket carries a maximum fine of $250. That could add up to a pretty hefty camping price tag.