George Washington & Jefferson National Forests

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests

From lush forests and cold mountain streams to unique mountaintop balds, over 1.8 milllion acres of Appalachian forests in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky are yours to explore.

Explore Your Forest

Visitor Map

Carry a map with you when you head out into the woods. Explore recreation opportunities on our interactive visitor map and download a map to carry with you.

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Passes & Permits

Some activities require a permit or recreation pass. Check out out your annual recreation pass options and learn about permits for forest products like firewood.

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Forest Health

The Forest Service manages the national forests for multiple uses. We aim to protect, restore, and enhance forest ecosystems.

Resource Management

Know Before You Go
Know how to keep yourself safe and care for the land you love. Contact the local district office for current information on conditions and restrictions.

Recent News

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Forest Service Announces Bolar Flat Day Use Area at Lake Moomaw Closed for Public Health and Safety
Release Date: May 23, 2022
Forest Service partners with Appalachian Conservation Corps and Virginia Environmental Endowment to host all-female youth crew
Release Date: May 23, 2022

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Spotlights

Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership funds awarded

Two people walk in a grassy opening in a forest

We are working to restore forest health. The Eastern Divide Restoration Project will be funded over the next 3 years through the Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership.

Volunteers & Service Leadership award

Photo of a woman holding a skill saw. USFS Award Recipient. Leadership

Forest Service announces 2021 Volunteers & Service award winner, Janida Bonham, long-term Mount Rogers National Recreation Area volunteer.

Partnership mitigates climate change impacts in Virginia Wilderness streams

A trout rests among the rocks of a streambed

With funding from the National Forest Foundation, the Forest Service is working with multiple partners to reverse acidification in the streams of Saint Mary's Wilderness.

Implementing the North Shenandoah Mountain Restoration Project

We are working to improve forest health in the North Shenandoah Mountain project area. See 2021 accomplishments funded by the Joint Chief's Landscape Restoration Partnership.