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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.
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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 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.
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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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Partnership helps Forest Service reopen High Knob Recreation Area
Release Date: Jun 27, 2022
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Forest Service invests $574,900 for improvements in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Release Date: Jun 23, 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
- Bolar Mountain Recreation Area Summer Schedule Delayed
- Effective July 1, 2022, Virginia law permits hunting on Sunday
- Offices on George Washington and Jefferson National Forests Open to the Public
- Bolar Flat Day Use Area at Lake Moomaw Closed for Public Health and Safety
- 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
