ALL TEMPORARY CLOSURE ALERTS

Alert

Date(s): Sep 25, 2024

Contact(s): Laura Fitzmorris

 

Temporary Forest Closures - Tropical Storm Helene

UPDATE (Oct. 10, 4:00 PM) - The storm has passed through and we are now assessing damage in accessible areas of the Forest. We will be reopening recreation sites, campgrounds and trails when it is safe to do so. Chattooga River Ranger District has the most damage on Forest. Chattahoochee WMA in White County and Lake Russell WMA in Habersham and Stephens County will be open to hunts only. All campgrounds and rec sites will remain closed. We will continue to work on reopening other WMAs across the forest that have scheduled hunts for later in the season. Trail conditions on the AT in the Chattahoochee-Oconee NF have not been assessed and emergency response is supporting recovery efforts in the hardest hit areas. Hiking the trail within the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest is currently discouraged. We appreciate everyone's patience as our employees continue to work on clearing trees from roadways. As soon as we can safely reopen these sites, we'll list them here.

Georgia, 24 Sept. 2024— The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest will be closing certain camp and recreation sites due to Tropical Storm Helene. The safety of those visiting our Forest is of the utmost importance to us as this storm approaches. We appreciate patience and understanding as we close certain sites where fallen trees, flooding and washed-out roads are a concern. If you encounter an emergency situation while in the Forest, CALL 911. Camping, hiking and other Forest activities will be done at your own risk with the understanding that emergency response capabilities may be hindered. 

REOPENED SITES LISTED BY DISTRICT (Oct. 4, 2:00 PM)

Blue Ridge Ranger District

Chattooga River Ranger District

All trails, roads, rec sites and campgrounds are currently being assessed by Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest employees to ensure forest visitor safety before reopening. Focus will be on clearing roads for public access before beginning work on other areas.

  • Lake Russell WMA is fully cleared
  • Currahee Road is fully cleared
  • Black mountain road is fully cleared

Warwoman Area and WMA will remain closed. We do not have a date on when reopening can be expected. Many spur roads remain impassable. Please call the district office before visiting to inquire about spur road access.

Conasauga Ranger District

*All hunting roads are open

Oconee Ranger District

CLOSURES BY DISTRICT

Blue Ridge Ranger District

Chatooga River Ranger District 

Conasauga Ranger District

  • NO CLOSURES

Oconee Ranger District

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