[Magnum44]

I dont know all the laws for every state, but I believe the majority now have castle doctrine, which means in your place of domicile, including your camp ground, possession of a gun for self protection is legal. In CA, your allowed to “transport” to and from places where you can legally possess, but most places require that “transport” to be with the gun unloaded and inaccessible (in the backpack?).

Otherwise, your correct, you would need a permit to carry the loaded gun while hiking on the trail. That could be a concealed carry permit, or a hunting license. You might have to convince the ranger your 9mm is an appropriate hunting gun.

[SJackson]

I dont know all the laws for every state, but I believe the majority now have castle doctrine, which means in your place of domicile, including your camp ground, possession of a gun for self protection is legal. In CA, your allowed to “transport” to and from places where you can legally possess, but most places require that “transport” to be with the gun unloaded and inaccessible (in the backpack?).

I was thinking more of hiking than at ones campsite, which would put local “transport” regulations into play. Which in most places would mean at best cased, unloaded and in the pack. Unless open carry is legal. Obviously people need to check to local laws, which is why imo consistant laws on federal land would be nice, but I don't think castle doctrine overrides local gun laws. For example while Illinois doesn't have a distinct "castle doctrine" law, deadly force is authorized to prevent bodily harm, that doesn't override local handgun bans, for example. Or state ownership licensing.

[B4Ranch]

Do Rangers normally pat you down or frisk you these days when they meet someone out in the woods?