You're mostly right, Gorganeer, about National Forest land. Hunting, recreational shooting, and carrying of handguns for defense is both allowed and common in National and State Forests.
There is no hunting or guns allowed in National Parks under most circumstances...
The difference between "Forest" and "Park" is not just semantics. It's a real difference and people should understand that.
As I understand it the rules for National Parks are determined by the Forest service on a per park basis.
For instance at The Kenai Fjords National Park
http://www.nps.gov/kefj/trip_planning/Rules%20and%20Regs%20faq.htm
"It is legal to possess a firearm anywhere in the park in accordance with all other applicable state and federal laws. This is different than the rule in most Lower 48 National Park areas, but is allowed here for protection from bears and other dangerous wildlife. Hunting is strictly prohibited within the park."