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.

Recreation Guide

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.

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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.

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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Partnership helps Forest Service reopen High Knob Recreation Area
Release Date: Jun 27, 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.

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.