RE: Tree stands on Public land
Definitely illegal here in PA..in fact, I have run into more than one game warden who has been overheard instructing another hunter to tear it down if he finds one.
Theoretically speaking though, first come-first serve would be my stance. Would it, again theoretically, be any different than a tree that you planned to put a portable stand in...or a fishing hole on opening day of trout season?