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Recreation

From lush woods and cold mountain streams to unique mountaintop balds, over 1.8 million acres of Appalachian forests in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky are yours to explore.

Hiking

Persons feet with brown hiking boots on a dirt path

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest has hundreds of miles of trails for hikers. From a smooth path through the deep forest to a challenging ascent of the Appalachian Trail. 

Biking

A person ride a mountain bike on a rocky trial

Whether you are looking for an easy afternoon ride or a challenging chain-breaking opportunity, explore George Washington National Forest on your e-bike, mountain or road bike. 

Horse Riding and Camping

A woman is riding her horse through Manzanita brush surrounded by the forest. She is traversing down a rocky narrow trail.

Enjoy the trails on a horse for the day or stay longer in one of many George Washington and Jefferson's many horse camps. 

Hunting, Fishing and Shooting

Fishing fly rod rests on a boat that is surrounded by a lake with a view of trees in the background at sunrise

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests provide multiple opportunities to hunt, fish and engage in shooting sport activities in a safe environment. 

Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV)

Side by side Off Highway Vehicle with two riders, one female and male on a dirt road with a forest behind them.

Off-Highway Vehicle recreation, including All-Terrain Vehicle and motorcycle use, is just one of the many uses allowed on National Forest lands.

Outdoor Science and Learning

A group of people sit along the rocks at the crest of a mountain beside a wooden building.

Outdoor learning interpretive sites on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest are varied, and each offers a unique insight to the National Forest. 

Picnicking

A picnic table with grassy open space in the background lining with trees.

Picnic areas abound on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. From lakeside beaches to high-Appalachian Mountain views, whether it's a picnic table or a grassy landscape. 

Water Activities

View of a lake with cloudy skies and green hills in the background. A waist high wooden fence in the foreground separates the viewer from the water.

The cool, clean lakes, rivers and streams of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest can be a welcome relief from the heat and sun of the Virginia's summers. 

Winter Sports

Two people cross country skiing in a snow blanketed forest setting

Winter snowstorms to the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests bring multiple opportunities to enjoy cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

Recreation

Showing: 11 - 20 of 243 results

Bath County Shooting Range

Site Open
Hunting/Shooting
This site contains both 50 yard and 100 yard, rifle and handgun shooting ranges. Shooting lanes include a covered bench.

Batzell Boat Launch

Site Open
Water Activities Fishing
Batzell Boat Launch sits perched on the riverbank where stunningly clear water laps down the river. The boat launch allows easy access to the South Fork of the Shenandoah River. Relish the fishing…

Bealers Ferry Boat Launch

Site Open
Water Activities Fishing
Surrounded by a spectacular nature setting, sits the secluded Bealers Ferry Boat Launch. Find pleasure in the convenient facility that allows one easy access to the South Fork of the Shenandoah…

Bealers Ferry Pond Accessible Fishing Site

Site Open
Water Activities Outdoor Science and Learning Fishing
Off the beaten path, but well worth the trip, Bealers’ Ferry Pond is a refreshing outdoor retreat. Appreciate a quality angling experience that allows one to fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, and…

Bear Wallow Run Trail (Forest Trail #601)

Walk through the gate and follow the old tram logging road through scenic woods and along Bear Wallow Run. Enjoy the variety of plant and animal life found in this unique Special Management Area. The…

Beards Mountain (Forest Trail #459)

Hiking
This trail climbs to the top of Beards Mountain, and provides spectacular views of Warm Springs Mountain and the Cowpasture River Valley. The south end of the trail ends on the boundary line between…

Beartree Lake Trail (Forest Trail #4563)

Fishing Hiking Water Activities
This paved and gravel-surfaced trail encircles Beartree Lake, an area popular for fishing and swimming. Fishing platforms and a beach area are also provided at the Beartree Recreation Area.Trail Open…

Belfast Trail (Forest Trail #9)

Hiking
The Belfast Trail begins after crossing the foot bridge over East Fork Elk Creek. A short distance ahead the trail passes stone pillars, announcing Camp Powhatan, a former Boy Scout camp, with only…