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Welcome to the Prescott National Forest!
Where the Desert Meets the Pines
The Prescott National Forest is guardian of 950 miles of scenic trails and more than 100,000 acres of wilderness. With a mild climate and proximity to Phoenix, you can visit year-round.
From picnicking, developed campsites and gentle trails to rock climbing, bouldering, dispersed camping and rafting on more than a million acres of incredible landscapes, there's something for everyone to see and do!
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Recreation
Camping. Hiking. Climbing. Rafting. Fishing. Beauty. Nature.
Fun! Adventure! Relaxation! Bliss!
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Find Your Way
Maps for every need, the way you want them: Interactive, Printed, Downloadable
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Passes/Permits
Purchase your passes and permits online or at your destination.
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Caring for the Land
The Prescott National Forest manages public lands brimming with natural resources and diverse wildlife. We work to protect at-risk species, protect watersheds, ensure forest health through safe logging practices, and restore and maintain critical ecosystems.
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History
The Prescott Forest Reserve was established by the General Land Office on May 10, 1898. It was transferred to the U.S. Forest Service in 1906 and became a National Forest on March 4, 1907. Just a year later, the Prescott expanded with the inclusion of the Verde National Forest on July 1, 1908. The final area was defined on October 22, 1934, when the Tusayan National Forest was merged.
Recent News
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Prescott NF offices closed Monday July 4 in observance of Independence Day
Release Date: Jul 1, 2022
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Bald Eagle Closures at Lynx Lake and Verde River being lifted later this week
Release Date: Jun 29, 2022
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Visitors Asked to Stay on Existing Trails and Help Prevent Damage to Trails During the Monsoon Season
Release Date: Jun 28, 2022
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Temporarily Closure of Forest Road 103 for Repairs on the Bradshaw Ranger District
Release Date: Jun 28, 2022
Features
Aldo Leopold 1920 Report on the Prescott National Forest
A historic report witten by Aldo Leopold in 1920 about the condition of the Prescott National Forest and its management.
Spotlights
Prescribed Fire
After 100 years of actively suppressing fire in our forests, the clinical report is in. Our forests are unhealthy and the prescription for getting them back to a healthy state is -- fire.
Verde River Guide (7,928 KB PDF)
Please plan ahead, be prepared, and practice Leave No Trace ethics to leave the Verde just as you find it for those who come after.
Alerts & Warnings
- STAGE 2 FIRE RESTRICTIONS IN EFFECT; RESTRICCIONES DE FUEGOS ETAPA 2 EN EFECTO
- Fossil Creek & Forest Road 708 Closed until 12/31/22 for public health and saf
- Target Type restrictions implemented across the Prescott NF
- Temporary Camping Restrictions along Highway 260 and Salt Mine Road Corridor
- Drones Use on Forest Service Lands
