Man Illegally Camped in Forest for 8 Years

What's the longest you've ever camped out? One man managed to live illegally in a national forest for eight years before authorities discovered him.

How Long Can You Legally Camp in Michigan's National Forests?

Michigan offers some of the best camping opportunities in the country, with everything from national forests and state parks to privately owned campgrounds. Many of these camping destinations are open year-round, giving outdoor enthusiasts plenty of options in every season.

Most campgrounds have limits on how long you can stay, especially those located within national forests. In Michigan's national forests, campers are allowed to stay in the same location for up to 16 consecutive days. Once that limit is reached, you must pack up your campsite or relocate to a new campsite that is at least five miles away before setting up camp again.

Illegal Camper Found After 8 Years in National Forest

According to WOOD TV8, 65-year-old Mark Aaron Gatz of Arizona took advantage of a federal public lands program intended for short-term camping and illegally lived in Arizona's Tonto National Forest for eight years before authorities discovered him.

Authorities say Gatz not only camped illegally in the national forest for eight years, but authorities also say he left behind roughly half a ton of trash. In Arizona, campers are generally limited to 14 consecutive days in one location. Instead, Gatz reportedly remained in the same area for approximately 2,920 days.

In addition to the trash scattered throughout his campsite, authorities said Gatz had an active campfire burning when they arrived, despite fire restrictions being in place because of dry conditions and an elevated wildfire risk.

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When Gatz was arrested, officers discovered he had six outstanding federal warrants for previous violations. He later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to three years of probation.

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