Nothing to debate. Check ATC site.
I only tell people what the rules are supposed to be, because many for some reason , think there are absolutely none when it cones to the AT, and dont bother to even check.
If they dont want to follow, thats their business.
As an ex scout leader myself, what I personally find
appalling is the number of scout leaders willing to ignore such things because they can. most large groups are scouts. Leaders are supposed to set good examples, but I suppose theres all kinds of troops. We experienced graffitti, theft, smoking, profanity, etc at some camps by troops from other areas. The worst was where kids from an inner-city troop smeared feces on walls of bathroom. Like father like son...
http://www.appalachiantrail.org/home...ement-policies
What the hell ill post it:
Requirements for Organized Group Use
A voluntary trip-notification program and, where required, an agency-established permit, should
be established for organized groups of 6 or more on overnight visits, and 15 or more on day
visits. Consideration of social and natural-resource carrying capacities should be made before a
permit is issued.
This policy on Organized Group Use reaffirms the guidance on group size limitations contained
in ATC’s 1993 Policy on Special Events and Large Group Use, which states that camping
groups should not exceed 10 persons at any one overnight use area, and day use should not
exceed 25 persons at any one location, except when a land-managing agency regulation
establishes a different limit. Organized groups should be well-acquainted with Leave No Trace
practices and voluntary Trail stewardship opportunities prior to embarking on their trips, and
should practice both while on the Trail.
Groups of 6 or more, whether “organized” or not, are strongly encouraged to use group
campsites where they exist. Land-managing agencies, the ATC and A.T. clubs should work
toward designating appropriate locations for group camping for groups of 6 or more. To avoid
groups “taking over” the limited space available at shelters, any group of 6 or more should plan
to camp in tents they carry, rather than staying in shelters.