George Washington & Jefferson National Forests
Explore Your 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.
-
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 on your phone.
-
Passes & Permits
Some activities require a permit or recreation pass. Check out your annual recreation pass options and learn about permits for recreation activities including OHV/ATV permits for special trail systems and forest products like firewood.
-
Forest Health
The Forest Service manages the national forests for multiple uses. We aim to protect, restore, and enhance forest ecosystems.
-
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
-
USFS Reopens North Fork of Pound Boat Launch in Clinch Ranger District
Release Date: Aug 5, 2022
-
Storm hazards close road and recreation sites on Clinch Ranger District
Release Date: Jul 29, 2022
-
Saint Mary’s River Trail will be intermittently closed in August and September during trail improvement projects
Release Date: Jul 28, 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.
Chesapeake Forest Restoration

The Appalachian mountains host the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Forest restoration supports healthy communities and ecosystems throughout the watershed.
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.
Alerts & Warnings
- Some recreation sites in SW Virginia temporarily closed due to storm impacts
- North Fork of Pound Boat Launch reopens
- Saint Mary’s River Trail will be intermittently closed in August and September
- Current Lake Moomaw Information
- Effective July 1, 2022, Virginia law permits hunting on Sunday
- Grindstone camping limited in 2022
- Temp Closure: Rocky Run ATV trail, Second Mountain, Long Run Road
- Some roads and trails closed in Rockingham County VA and Pendleton County WV