George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
Hurricane Helene Information
The following areas remain closed:
- Virginia Creeper National Recreation Trail (Forest Service Trail #4575) is closed from Trestle #17 in the Town of Damascus east to Whitetop Station and the North Carolina line (Mount Rogers National Recreation Area)
- Bark Camp Lake Day Use Area is now open. Some area remain still sectioned off for public safety as we continue our post-Hurricane Helene clean up efforts. The public is urged to note flagging and signs.
Explore your forests
From lush woods and cold mountain streams to unique mountaintop balds, over 1.8 million acres of Appalachian forests in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky are yours to explore.
Highlights
Recent News
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Forest Service Conducts Prescribed Burn on South Zone
Release Date: Mar 19, 2025
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Forest Service Schedules Prescribed Burn along Coal Road in Augusta County
Release Date: Mar 18, 2025
Spotlights
Resource Advisory Committee (RAC)

The RAC works with the forest and partners to improve conditions via projects that provide local jobs, restore landscapes, enhance recreation, combat invasive species and engage youth.
Forest Health

The Forest Service manages the national forests for multiple uses. We aim to protect, restore, and enhance forest ecosystems.
The Flatwoods Job Corps Civilian Conservation Center is a valued partner

We host the Flatwoods JCCC, a career training program where young people can complete their high school education, train for meaningful careers, and gain assistance obtaining employment.
Chesapeake Forest Restoration

The Appalachian mountains host the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Forest restoration supports healthy communities and ecosystems throughout the watershed.