Alerts
Please visit this page for current closures and advisories.
Forest Alerts
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Flash Flood Awareness
Recent heavy rains have saturated the ground and raised water levels in rivers and streams. Flash flooding can occur with little or no warning, especially in low-lying areas, stream channels, and valleys. Conditions may remain hazardous even after rainfall ends.
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CAUTION Waterfall Dangers
While beautiful, waterfalls pose risks to visitors. Each year serious injuries and fatalities occur at Georgia waterfalls.
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Forest Supervisor's Orders, Rules, Regulations, and Guidelines
Please visit this page for Forest Supervisor's Orders about Recreation Rules, Regulations, and Guidelines for Forest Visitors.
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Forest Service 259 Hammond Gap Temporarily Closed
Forest Service Road 259, Hammond Gap, is temporarily closed for public safety.
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Forest Service Road 212B Temporarily Closed
Forest Service Road 213B, Turkey Creek, is temporarily closed to protect the resource and for public safety.
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Forest Service Road 259C Temporarily Closed
Forest Service Road 259C, Cockburn Road, is closed temporarily to protect the resource and for public safety.
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Grassy Gap - Horseshoe Ridge Road FSR 55 Temporary Road Closure - Blue Ridge Ranger District
Forest Service Road 55, Grassy Gap - Horseshoe Ridge Road, located on the Blue Ridge Ranger District, is closed temporar
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Be Bear-Aware!
Camping season is bear-aware season. It's crucial to store food and scented items properly and know what to do if you encounter a bear.
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Narrows Road Maintenance
There is ongoing road maintenance being performed on Narrows Road in the area of Hammond Gap. Please be aware of possible rough road conditions.
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Oconee Ranger District moves to "Scan to Pay" on Recreation Sites
As of today, May 1, 2025, the Oconee Ranger District is now offering forest visitors the option of paying for their day-use recreation site fees with the free, easy-to-use Recreation.gov mobile app and choosing the “scan and pay” option.
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ATV and OHV - Call Before You Haul
Motorized trails close when conditions are wet to prevent trail damage and erosion into streams. Check the status of your favorite trail or Call Before You Haul.
1. Keep It Safe
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CLOSED - Panther Creek Rec Area due to Storm Damage Alert
GAINESVILLE, GA — The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has issued an official closure order for the Panther Creek Recreation Area following significant damage sustained during Hurricane Helene.
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UTV Education for Forest Visitors
Contact(s): Chatsworth 706-695-6736 Blairsville 706-745-6928 Lakemont 706-754-6221 Eatonton 706-485-7110