Alerts
Please visit this page for current closures and advisories.
Forest Alerts
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Campground Updates: Low Gap Temporary Closure and Water System Changes
Visitors to the Chattooga River Ranger District should be aware of several campground updates as the Forest Service completes facility improvements and transitions aging infrastructure. Low Gap Campground is temporarily closed while restroom facilities are replaced. The campground was taken… -
New phone number for Blue Ridge Ranger District
The main phone line for the Blue Ridge Ranger District has been changed to 706-745-6928. -
Temporary Closure on Portion of Duncan Ridge Road (FSR 39) Beginning March 9
UPDATE, 30 March 2026:The bridge is out over Mulkey Creek along FS-39 (Duncan Ridge Rd), and FS-4 (Mulkey Gap Rd) is inaccessible via FS-39. Exercise caution and avoid traveling too far down the road where vehicles are unable to safely turn around.__________________________The Chattahoochee-Oconee… -
Residual Impacts from Recent Winter Storms
Recent winter weather events affected portions of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. While crews have made significant progress clearing hazards and restoring access, visitors may still encounter downed trees, debris, or minor damage on some forest roads, trails, and recreation… -
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest begins prescribed fires
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has begun prescribed fire operations, pending all required approvals. We estimate this work to continue through May as weather conditions allow. We use prescribed fires to help reduce overgrown vegetation to help protect local communities, infrastructure and… -
Temporary Road Closure Alert – Chattooga River Ranger District
UPDATED: April 16, 2026Due to land slides, the following National Forest System roads are temporarily closed for public safety and will remain closed until further notice. At this time, there is no estimated reopening date. We understand these closures may disrupt travel plans and access to the… -
Temporary Closure of Hidden Creek Roads 955E, 955B, 955D
Road repair work is being done in the Hidden Creek area over the next several months. Currently, 955E, 955B and 955D are closed to vehicle traffic. Roads will be reopened when repairs are complete, and they are safe to drive. -
Wildfire Prevention
Wildfire activity has picked up across north and central Georgia over the past couple of weeks, and conditions remain dry. As you enjoy your time on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest, a few small choices can make a big difference in preventing human-caused fires. • Keep campfires small,… -
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. Avoid riverbanks and… -
CAUTION Waterfall Dangers
While beautiful, waterfalls pose risks to visitors. Each year serious injuries and fatalities occur at Georgia waterfalls.The best way to enjoy a waterfall is from a safe distance. Heed posted warning signs indicating danger and stay on established trails. Never climb on or around waterfalls and… -
Forest Supervisor's Orders, Rules, Regulations, and Guidelines
Please visit this page for Forest Supervisor's Orders about official Recreation Rules, Regulations, and Guidelines for Forest Visitors.Rules for Visitors to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests, GeorgiaAll visitors and users of the National Forests are subject to Federal Regulations. The… -
Hickory Ridge #71 and Rough Ridge #12 Trails closed (Cohutta Wilderness)
The Hickory Ridge (#71) and Rough Ridge (#12) trails in the Cohutta Wilderness (Conasauga Ranger District) are temporarily closed for public safety. Hurricane Helene’s high winds and heavy rainfall have compounded ongoing changes to the Wilderness resulting from the 2016 drought and wildfires.… -
Forest Service Road 212B Temporarily Closed
Forest Service Road 213B, Turkey Creek, is temporarily closed to protect the resource and for public safety. -
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 temporarily to protect the resource and for public safety. -
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.  Bears are curious, hungry, and have a keen sense of smell, so they are attracted to food, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. To reduce the odds of having a bear… -
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.To use “scan and pay” in lieu of other traditional… -
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  - Wear proper safety gear.  - Maintain a safe speed.  - Stay alert.2. Keep It Legal  - Know where… -
UTV Education for Forest Visitors
Contact(s): Chatsworth 706-695-6736 Blairsville 706-745-6928 Lakemont 706-754-6221 Eatonton 706-485-7110Before riding your UTV, Educate Yourself! Obtain a map (motor vehicle use map) of your destination and determine which areas are open to UTVs. Respected Access is Open Access! By practicing…