The national forests in North Carolina offer a wide variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Discover hiking trails, biking opportunities, OHV riding and more! 

Hurricane Helene dramatically impacted the mountains of Western North Carolina including National Forests system lands. 

Visit our permitting page to learn more about foraging, mineral collection, special events, commercial purposes and other uses.

Passes are needed for OHV trails as well as some campsites and day use areas.

Whether you seek the solitude of a backcountry camping site or a convenient place for you and your family to pitch a tent or park an RV, there are plenty of places to camp in the National Forests in North Carolina. 

Explore classic Pisgah scenery with waterfalls and swimming holes following the Davidson River. Drive through windy roads and expansive overlooks along the Blueridge Parkway, leading to miles of trails and exploration. 

Enjoy iconic hikes in Linville Gorge, sweeping waterfall views like Catawba Falls, and relaxing day use areas along mountain creeks. 

Explore high elevation trails and unique mountain habitats in Roan Mountain, or take in sweeping views from the grassy bald at Max Patch with waterfalls close by.  

Find adventure in Panthertop Valley, referred to as the Yosemite of the east. Or, spend the day amongst towering mountains like Whiteside Mountain, or gushing waterfalls like Dry Falls and white Water Falls. 

Escape to peaceful forests with towering trees in the Joyce Kilmer Area and scenic recreation areas right on the lake. 

Discover remote wilderness in Joyce Kilmer, winding mountain roads and rugged trails in this quiet corner of the forest. 

Settle into an ancient forest of long leaf pines, multi-use trails and mix of recreation in North Carolina's central forest.

Experience coastal forests, pocosins, and estuaries shaped by fire, water and wildlife. 

Know before you go!