I was hiking in Yellowstone (legal to carry). I went into the Visitor Center to use the restroom. I didn’t see the tiny sign on the door banning guns in “Federal Facilities.” A Ranger saw my print and arrested me for violating 18 USC 930. My state-based carry insurance said, “You committed a federal crime. We don’t cover that.”
Key Takeaways
- The “Federal Facility” Trap: In National Parks, you can carry outside (under state law), but never inside a building where federal employees work (Ranger stations, museums, toilets).
- 18 USC 930: Possession of a firearm in a federal facility is a crime.
- Insurance Jurisdiction: Some “State-Specific” legal plans (like US Law Shield’s basic plan) only cover you in your home state. You need the “Multi-State” add-on.
- Federal Defense: Defending a federal charge requires a lawyer admitted to Federal Court. Not all program attorneys are federal defenders.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “The Doorway.”
Outside the door: Legal (State Law applies).
Inside the door: Felony (Federal Law applies).
Insurance covers “Lawful Carry.” If you walk through that door, you are no longer “Lawfully Carrying.” However, US Law Shield and USCCA generally do defend the charge to prove lack of intent (you didn’t see the sign), provided you bought the travel coverage.
The Investigation (I Checked the Maps)
- Yellowstone: Covers WY, MT, ID.
- Trap: If you cross from WY to MT inside the park, permit reciprocity might change (though Constitutional Carry helps in 2026).
- The Big Trap: Post Offices, Army Corps of Engineers land, and Ranger Stations are Federal.
Comparison Table
| Location | Legality | Insurance Coverage |
| National Park (Outside) | Legal (Usually) | Covered |
| National Park (Building) | Illegal | Defense Provided (to fight charge) |
| Army Corps Land | Illegal (Usually) | Defense Provided |
| Post Office | Illegal | High Risk of Denial |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Buy Multi-State Coverage: If you leave your driveway, you need the “50 State” add-on.
- Download the Map: Use an app like “CCW” to see exactly where the federal boundaries are.
- [IMAGE: Screenshot of a map app showing red ‘No Carry’ zones in a National Park]
- Lock it Up: If you have to pee, leave the gun in the locked car safe. Don’t risk a federal record for a bathroom break.
FAQ
What if I have a valid permit?
Permits do not override Federal “Sensitive Places.”
Does the ‘safe passage’ law protect me?
Not if you are hiking. FOPA protects you while driving through, not recreating.