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Welcome
National Forests in North Carolina
The Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Croatan National Forests. Hike one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. Explore the only coastal national forest in the eastern U.S.
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Camping
Remote wilderness, roadside camping, family friendly campgrounds, and more. To reserve campsites and more in North Carolina visit recreation.gov
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Passes & Permits
Most of the forest is free to recreate in, but some activities may require a permit.
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Maps
Always have more than one way to navigate.
Features
Mortimer Trails Project
The Mortimer Trails Project, planned in coordination with local partners, will increase the sustainability of the trail system and add 10 additional miles of mountain biking and hiking trails to the Wilson Creek Area in Caldwell and Avery Counties.
Shared Stewardship
The National Forests in North Carolina have a rich history of working with partners to accomplish cross-boundary landscape level restoration and conservation objectives.
Spotlights
Buck Project Fact Sheet
Information on the Buck Project on the Nantahala National Forest.
Hiking Basics
How to find a hike, what to bring, and other considerations.
Mortimer Bridge improves habitat of Thorps Creek
The bridge replaces a low-water ford, which was a barrier to the movement of fish and a recurring public safety hazard during flood events.
Road maintenance
In maintaining National Forest System roads, we consider access for public and forest management activities, environmental impacts, and budget.
Alerts & Warnings
- Point Lookout Trail will temporarily close for repairs beginning August 8, 2022
- Linville Gorge Camping Permits Required for Summer Weekends
- Be Bear Aware
- Catawba Falls Trail (TR 225) Closed
- Camping and other restrictions now in effect at Max Patch
- Nantahala RD: Multiple areas under construction
- Appalachian RD: NCDOT construction near Harmon Den may affect Forest access
- Grandfather RD: Old House Gap Rd (FS192) temporarily closed
- Recreate responsibly
- Joyce Kilmer Trail Lower Loop Closed due to rain damage
- Target Shooting prohibited on Croatan National Forest
