In times like these, we appreciate the forest more and more as a place of recreation. But what are the rules to be observed in the forest and especially on the subject of wild camping?
Rules in the forest
- Forests may be used for recreational purposes. It is important to pay attention to information and prohibition signs.
- Avoid unnecessary noise.
- Dogs always on a leash.
- Be considerate of the forest dwellers. We have to keep our distance from the wild animals and not touch them under any circumstances.
- Take waste (including leftover food) with you and dispose of it properly.
- Mushrooms and berries may be collected unless it is a nature reserve (e.g. Riesachtal, Seewigtal, Klafferkessel) or it is expressly prohibited (by prohibition signs).
Wild camping in Styria
In principle, every person has the right to enter and stay in forests for recreational purposes. However, camping (staying for a longer period of time in a specific place) in the dark or camping in the forest is generally prohibited, as is camping in a caravan or spending the night in a vehicle. These activities are only permitted if the consent of the forest owner (in the case of forest roads is given by the forest road maintainer).
The so-called "alpine wasteland", which is the wasteland above the tree line, is free to tourist traffic and can be accessed by anyone. Excluded from free tourist traffic are areas used for agriculture (alpine pastures) other than pasture.
Camping and bivouacing in nature reserves (e.g. Riesachtal, Seewigtal, Klafferkessel) is prohibited by law.
In any case, permission from the landowner must be obtained for camping outside the forest and alpine pastures.
