The shortest and simplest comment I can make is this: A rule barring firearms in state forests will only keep those who follow the rules from being armed.  Those who would illegally hunt or harm another person do not follow the rules and will not be deterred by a rule that says they can not possess a firearm in a state forest.  Letting honest citizens carry firearms allows them to defend themselves in the event that they are confronted by a person or animal that attempts to attack them.