Electric Forest Security Rules: What to Pack

Electric Forest returns to Rothbury, Michigan, June 25–28, 2026, for four days of music, camping, and adventure. Packing smart can help festivalgoers stay safe, comfortable, and ready for the experience.

Electric Forest Has Transformed Since the 1950s

Electric Forest traces its origins to a 1950s reforestation effort led by the late Wally Wojack and local residents who planted the white pine seedlings that became today’s towering Sherwood Forest. Once meant to restore land damaged by logging, the 70-foot trees now provide the backdrop for the festival’s immersive art installations, hammocks, and woodland experiences.

The grounds first hosted a major music event in 2008 with the Rothbury Music Festival. After new ownership took over in 2011, the event was rebranded as Electric Forest, which now draws between 40,000 and 50,000 attendees each year for its four-day festival experience.

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With an event this large, it’s important for attendees to know what items are allowed, and prohibited, before entering the festival grounds.

What’s Allowed at Electric Forest This Year?

According to MLive, festivalgoers can improve their Electric Forest experience by planning ahead and staying prepared. Attendees are encouraged to download the Electric Forest mobile app for updates and event information, familiarize themselves with camping arrival and departure schedules, and pack for rapidly changing weather conditions.

Here's what fans can't bring and what they should bring to the event. Since there are many restricted items, here’s a quick breakdown with linked categories so you can prepare for the 4-day event.

• Things You Are Not Allowed to Bring
• Water Policy
• Alcohol Policy 
• Powered Mobility Devices
• Totem Guidelines
• Medical Prescriptions
• Children in the Forest
• Sound Systems
• Vending
• Local Kennel Information
• Promotions and Sponsorship
• A Note on Headdresses and Threatening Messages

The Electric Forest does a great job on their website and answering any and all questions.

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If you forget to bring something, there are general stores on the grounds that are stocked with essential goods and ice.

👇BELOW: Michiganders Share Their Craziest Electric Forest Stories👇