This is far from a new phenomenon,  Survivalists and anti-government groups have existed for decades.  With instant media exposure via the internet we're far more aware of them....but they're not new.  In my opinion, they're nihilists (definition:  of or believing in nihilism, or the total rejection of established laws and institutions) and see government and laws as intrusions on their personal freedom.  

Traditionally, they have lived in rather isolated enclaves and had little interaction with the "main stream."  They interact with the BLM, Forest Service and Parks and Wildareas Departments since those agencies control areas they seek to use, or, in my opinion, abuse.  They will ignore laws, regulations and policies as long as they can "get away" with it.....Their classic passive/aggresssive tactics turn to threats of violence when confronted.They're scofflaws and have been successful scofflaws for far too long.