George Washington & Jefferson National Forest Virginia

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest Overview

George Washington and Jefferson National Forests encompass nearly 1.8 million acres of public land stretching across the Appalachian Mountains in western Virginia, eastern West Virginia, and a small portion of Kentucky. These adjoining national forests offer some of the most scenic mountain landscapes in the eastern United States, featuring rugged ridges, deep valleys, clear streams, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife habitats.

The forests provide year-round opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, boating, mountain biking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, hunting, and scenic driving. Visitors can explore portions of the famous Appalachian Trail, which traverses the forests and offers access to spectacular overlooks and wilderness areas. Popular destinations include Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, Virginia’s highest peak, as well as numerous scenic byways and mountain lakes.

George Washington and Jefferson National Forest – Camping

Camping is one of the most popular activities in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests. The forests offer a wide variety of camping experiences, from developed campgrounds with modern amenities to primitive backcountry sites.

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Amenities

• BBQ Grills
• Boat Ramp
• Campground Host
• Campsite Tables
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Fair
• Drinking Water
• Equestrian trail
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Firewood Available
• Golden Age & Access Passports accepted
• Grills
• Pets OK
• Picnic Tables
• Trash Collection

Activities

• ATVing
• Backpacking
• Biking
• Bird Watching
• Boating
• Canoeing
• Cross Country Skiing
• Fishing
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Horseback riding
• Hunting
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• OTV Trails/Riding
• Paddle boarding (SUP)
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Rock Climbing
• Snowmobiling
• Snowshoeing
• Stargazing
• Swimming
• Water Sports
• Wildlife Viewing