handguns in state parks

[brentylax]

I'm going hiking in tarbucco canyon on Sat. I've heard reports recently of mountain lions in the area. Can I bring a handgun? or will they arrest me for bringing protection?

[Coded-Dude]

LOADED FIREARMS AND HUNTING are not allowed in units of the State Parks System. Possession of loaded firearms or air rifles is prohibited. Exceptions are for hunting in recreation areas that have been designated by the State Park and Recreation Commission.

http://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21300

there is probably more info in some PC somewhere, but I dunno.

[Cnynrat]

If you are worried about mountain lions I think you are better off with a readily accessible knife anyway. Typical mode of attack is the lion jumps you from above/behind, and is on the back of your neck about the time you realize they are there. I'd rather be fighting him off with a knife at that point.

I hike in mountain lion country regularly, and have never seen one in the wild. Don't think worrying about a mountain lion attack is something to loose a lot of sleep over.

[brentylax]

I've seen one mountain lion while in colorado. It seemed disinterested in people sounds like: risk of getting arrested by an over zealous park ranger> risk of being mauled by a mountain lion. I hate that I have to make that decision that I'd rather be unprepared for an emergency then possibly face prosecution for my legally registered firearm.

[almaster666]

Yeah, I'm pretty sure a firearm in a State Park is a big No-no.

[Librarian]

If you have CCW, handgun is OK in state parks. Otherwise, no.

[LovingTheYear1911]

This is a good question. I've always wondered because my friends and I do some random hiking in the middle of nowhere and lately I have been thinking about carrying one of my pistols with me for protection.

If I do get stopped for it, what are the consequences?

Because the rules said a LOADED FIREARM. So what if I have it with me but its not loaded?

[almaster666]

If I do get stopped for it, what are the consequences?

Because the rules said a LOADED FIREARM. So what if I have it with me but its not loaded?

Well then I believe it would fall under the open carry laws. So unloaded open carry should be fine. I know they're trying to change the open carry laws but can't remember if it would only applies to incorporated areas... so complicated. So keep an eye on the regulations.

If you are stopped with a loaded handgun, you will be in trouble, even more if its concealed.

[Freq18Hz]

If you are worried about mountain lions I think you are better off with a readily accessible knife anyway. Typical mode of attack is the lion jumps you from above/behind, and is on the back of your neck about the time you realize they are there. I'd rather be fighting him off with a knife at that point.

I hike in mountain lion country regularly, and have never seen one in the wild. Don't think worrying about a mountain lion attack is something to loose a lot of sleep over.

Is that some kind of sick joke? A knife?

I think you need a reality check. If a cat is on the back of your neck, trying to bite through your spine...your knife is going to be about as effective as a toothpick.

Not trying to sound inflammatory towards you at all, just a bit alarmed that someone thinks that a knife will protect them from a mountain lion.

Besides a rifle, big bore revolver, your best protection is to make a lot of noise, and be armed with bear spray.

Mountain lion attacks are very very rare.

I was stalked by one once, about 12 years ago. Was stupid, intoxicated, walking from our camp down a trail around 2 a.m. It was probably one of the scariest experiences of my life, ironically the only thing that saved our butts was running and being close enough to camp to have our loud music scare it off. Running is not advised.

I think unless you are being really stupid, or you run into a wounded cat, as long as you act agressive, loud, and keep your distance (not turning your back) you will be a-ok the woods. No need for a firearm.


-Freq

[paul0660]

If you mean Trabuco Canyon, it is a National Forest, not a State Park. Big difference.

The answers are here: http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/s...d.php?t=186457

[wang949]

Typical mode of attack is the lion jumps you from above/behind, and is on the back of your neck about the time you realize they are there. I'd rather be fighting him off with a knife at that point.

If a big cat is already on your back/neck, it's too late, knife or no knife. Game over man.

[stormvet]

If a big cat is already on your back/neck, it's too late, knife or no knife. Game over man.

Not true many people have survived this very thing, never ever quit fighting use what ever you can get your hands on, gouge its eyes, grab its nutts(if male). I will always reach for my gun first, knife second.

[wang949]

I don't know, those cats are hyper efficient at removing jugulars. I wouldn't put too much $ on surviving one already at some poor guy's neck.

Oh, and no carrying allowed in state parks. I open carry every time while hunting in national FORESTS and blm land. The hunting license gives you the right in national FORESTS. Never had an issue. It's always best to ask a park ranger.

[stormvet]

I don't know, those cats are hyper efficient at removing jugulars. I wouldn't put too much $ on surviving one already at some poor guy's neck.

Oh, and no carrying allowed in state parks. I open carry every time while hunting in national parks and blm land. The hunting license gives you the right in national parks. Never had an issue. It's always best to ask a park ranger.

Maybe your right, better to just roll over and be that kitty's lunch. I'll just ask a park ranger if I can fight for my life or not.

[paul0660]

The hunting license gives you the right in national parks. Never had an issue. It's always best to ask a park ranger.

Please read the wiki. A hunting license means nothing in a National Park, other than the ability to unloaded conceal carry on the way to your expedition., The laws of the state govern the park, which was the decision that went into effect in Feb 2010. In National Parks in California you may CCW with permit, or unloaded open carry, but not in posted Federal buildings. You can CCW in school zones in the parks (there are some), but not UOC. Unless I am not informed, there is no hunting in National Parks in California, so discharge is prohibited, so you may not carry LOC.

Asking Park Rangers is a crap shoot.

Edit: since it is legal in California to carry, loaded, concealed, or otherwise at your campsite, you may. There are questions about how big the campsite can be considered, if you need a tent, RV, etc. etc.