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.
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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.
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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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Recreation sites open for the 2022 summer season on the Clinch Ranger District
Release Date: May 12, 2022
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Repairs scheduled for Jacob's Ladder Trail in Poverty Creek Trail System, Montgomery County, VA ; Trail will be temporarily closed May 14-15, 2022
Release Date: May 10, 2022
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Forest Service to hold Kids Fishing Derby Saturday, May 7 at Pandapas Pond
Release Date: May 6, 2022
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Forest Service reschedules Cave Mountain Lake Kids Fishing Day for Saturday, May 14
Release Date: May 5, 2022
Spotlights
Joint Chiefs’ Landscape Restoration Partnership funds awarded

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.
Pandapas Pond Project: GAOA in Action!

The Pandapas Pond Project on the Eastern Divide Ranger District is one of the first Great American Outdoors Act projects to be completed in Region 8. Read more about this exciting project!
Partnership mitigates climate change impacts in Virginia Wilderness streams

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.