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 signs and prohibitions.
- Avoid unnecessary noise.
- Always keep dogs on a leash.
- Show consideration for the forest dwellers. We must keep our distance from wild animals and never touch them.
- Take waste (including leftovers) back 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 forbidden (by prohibition signs).
Wild camping in Styria
In principle, every person has the right to enter and stay in the forest for recreational purposes. However, camping (staying in a certain place for a longer period of time) in the dark or camping in the forest is generally prohibited, as is camping with caravans or spending the night in a vehicle. These activities are only permitted if the forest owner (in the case of forest roads, the forest road owner) has given his or her consent.
The so-called "alpine wasteland", i.e. the wasteland above the tree line, is free for tourist traffic and can be accessed by anyone. Excluded from free tourist traffic are areas used for agricultural purposes other than grazing (alpine pastures).
Camping and bivouacking in nature reserves (e.g. Riesachtal, Seewigtal, Klafferkessel) is prohibited by law.
In any case, the permission of the landowner must be obtained for camping outside the forest and alpine pasture area.
