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Outdoor Safety & Ethics
As a visitor to the National Forests, there are lots of ways be a good steward and to protect the Forests and the natural environment, to ensure the health and safety of visitors, and to promote pleasant and rewarding outdoor recreation experiences for all visitors. We ask that you follow certain rules and regulations designed to ensure your health and safety, to protect the Forest, and to promote pleasant outdoor experiences for everyone.
Topics unique to this forest that you need to know before visiting:
- Consumption of alcohol and open containers of alcohol are prohibited in public places such as National Forest lands and waterways. View Supervisor's Order DB-02-15.
- To protect resources, camping and firebuilding in rock shelters is prohibited. View Supervisor's Order DB-02-15.
- Black bears are back, resulting in food storage restrictions to reduce odors that attract bears. View Supervisor's Order DB-02-15.
- All caves and mines on national forest lands are closed to the public to prevent and slow the spread of White-Nose Syndrome. View Supervisor's Order 08-RO-00-21-01R-1.
- Guns, target shooting and hunting are permitted on national forest lands.
Outdoor Ethics
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Leave No Trace
It's up to all of us to sustain healthy, vibrant natural lands for all people to enjoy, now and into the future. Every person who ventures outside can put Leave No Trace practices into action!
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Tread Lightly!
Tread Lightly!'s core focus is on supporting and encouraging stewardship of America's lands and waterways.
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Don't Move Firewood
The state of Kentucky strongly advises residents and visitors purchase local or certified, heat-treated firewood to avoid moving forest pests that can destroy trees like emerald ash borer, spongy moth, spotted lanternfly, Asian longhorned beetle and laurel wilt disease.
Visitor Safety
There are many elements of nature that are not as hospitable as the people of the South. Many of these elements are unseen or unknown until the unthinkable happens. Know Before You Go!
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Weather Safety
Weather in the Southern Region varies widely across the area, and can include everything from tornadoes to hurricanes to extreme winter weather conditions.
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Water Safety
There are inherent risks associated with water recreation and outdoor sports. Know before you go to keep you and your family water safe!
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Wildlife Safety
Snakes, Ticks, and Black Bears! Oh my!
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Safety in the Woods
What should you do if you get lost? Or if you slip and fall? Check out the safety checklists for these potential emergency situations and more!
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Safety Around Others
Protect yourself and your valuable before venturing out! Simple tips, and what to do ahead of time to keep yourself and your family safe can be found here.
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Outdoor Ethics
We are all stewards of the environment. Make sure those who visit these special places after you have their own experiences!