Nantahala National Forest
Old Fort Picnic Area -- closed Aug. 28-30, 2026
The Old Fort Picnic Area will be closed starting today through the weekend for paving. The area will reopen for parking Monday, August 31. The parking lot, which was damaged during Hurricane Helene, is being repaved as part of a larger project to restore and improve the picnic area. Due to the…
Commissary Ridge Dispersed Camping Area Temporarily Closed
Due to an increase in bear activity in the dispersed camping area at Commissary Ridge on the Pisgah National Forest near Mt. Mitchell State Park the camping area will be temporarily closed. This measure is to help provide visitor safety and minimize bear encounters.
Croatan Ranger District Office Relocation
Beginning Friday, August 7, 2026, the current Croatan Ranger District Office building will permanently close as North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) begins its US 70 widening project. Until construction of the new Croatan Ranger District is complete, visitor services will operate…
Hurricane Florence Closures- Croatan National Forest
Due to Hurricane Florence the following areas will remain closed on the Croatan National Forest: The Neusiok Trail from Pinecliff Recreation Area Trailhead to Pinecliff Equestrian Trail Detour Fishers Landing Recreation Area Pinecliff Recreation Area Siddie Fields Neuse River Recreation Sites…
Max Patch Restrictions- Appalachian Ranger District
Restrictions on camping, fires, animals, aircraft and bicycles in Max Patch area.
Appalachian Ranger District Office Hours
The Appalachian Ranger District Office will be operating under intermittent in-person business hours due to facility repairs. It is recommended to call the office before visiting. Email and the phone lines are monitored during building closure.
FS Road 225B Closed to All Traffic
The Pisgah Ranger District on Pisgah National Forest is conducting stream improvements for fish passage due to Helene storm damage on Forest Service Road #225B. Improvements include removing culverts to create a natural bottom ford. For public safety the road is temporarily closed to all traffic,…
John Rock Overlook Parking Area Construction
The Pisgah Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest has partnered with The Pisgah Conservancy and the Blue Ridge Parkway on a project to create the Upper Falls Connector Trail— a new 0.9-mile trail originating at the John Rock Overlook parking area to access Graveyard Fields. Graveyard…
Helene Closure Order Shope Creek- Appalachian Ranger District
For the protection of public health and following tropical storm Helene, the following acts are prohibited in the Shope Creek area on the Appalachian Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest:Going into or being in the described closure area. (Prohibition under 36 CFR § 261.53(e))Use by…
Connely Creek Road (NFSR 86) Closure
Connely Creek Road (NFSR 86) on the Nantahala Ranger District will be closed until October 2026 for road improvements. The closure will extend from the intersection of Cowee Bald Road (NFSR 70) to the intersection of Barkers Creek (NFSR 7062). Access to Cowee Bald will only be available from Macon…
Permit Free Firewood Collection- Pisgah National Forest
Hurricane Helene left a significant amount of woody debris across much of Western North Carolina, leaving higher-than-usual levels of fuels on the ground. This creates a heightened risk of wildfire. The public can help mitigate this risk by collecting downed wood to warm their homes during the…
Helene Closure Order Roan Mountain Fire Restriction- Appalachian Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on and within the Roan Mountain area as shown on the attached map, which is part of this Order:Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire, campfire, or stove fire. (Prohibition per 36 C.F.R. § 261.52(a))Fire restrictions apply to all National Forest…
Nantahala and Pisgah Cave and Mine Closure Order
It is prohibited to enter a cave in the Pisgah or Nantahala National Forest.
Helene Closure Order Buzzard Roost I-40 Reconstruction Project- Appalachian Ranger District
For the protection of public health and safety regarding Interstate 40 reconstruction and associated traffic control near Buzzard Roost, the following acts are prohibited in the Buzzard Roost area:Entry into the closure area. (Prohibited under 36 CFR § 261.53(e))Use of roads within the…
Helene Closure Order Ray Mine- Appalachian Ranger District
For the protection of public health and safety following Tropical Storm Helene, the following acts are prohibited in the Ray Mine Area on the Appalachian Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest:Going into or being in the described closure area. Prohibited under…
Pisgah National Forest Driving Safety Alert
Please use caution as you travel in and around the Forest. We have a lot of heavy equipment and repair crews in the area working on roads damaged during Hurricane Helene. Up to 2,000 tons of gravel are being placed EVERY DAY on our Forest Service roads through the summer and fall. That's around 60…
Paint Rock Closure Order- Appalachian Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on all National Forest System lands in the Paint Rock area:Entering or being upon the specified closure area — This includes all forms of presence, whether traveling by foot, vehicle, or any other means.This Order is issued to protect the cultural and natural…
Pisgah Ranger District Dispersed Camping Regulations
The following act is prohibited within 1000 feet of a road open to public vehicle travel on the Pisgah Ranger District in Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, and Transylvania Counties in North Carolina.Camping is prohibited in any area not designated as a campsite depicted on the attached map. This…
Pisgah Ranger District Camping Restrictions Closure Order- Pisgah Ranger District
Camping is not permitted within 1,000 feet of a road open to public vehicle traffic On the Pisgah Ranger District. Camping is only allowed in areas depicted as a campsite on this map. Other areas on the map would be within 1,000 feet of a roadway on the Pisgah Ranger District, and therefore not…
Elk River Recreation Area Prohibitions- Appalachian Ranger District
The following acts or omission is prohibited within the Elk Falls Recreation Area as depicted on attached map in Avery County, North Carolina on the Appalachian Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest.Camping, unless specifically posted as being authorized. 36 CFR 261.58(¢) Possessing a beverage…
Curtis Creek and Wiseman's View Alcohol Restrictions - Grandfather Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the following areas on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest:Possessing a beverage which is defined as an alcoholic beverage by state law. 36 CFR 261.58(BB). This order is for the following areas of the Grandfather Ranger…
Pisgah Ranger District Alcohol Restrictions- Pisgah Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited for the protection of public health or safety on the Pisgah Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest: Possessing a beverage which is defined as an alcoholic beverage by state law. 36 CFR 261.58 (bb) Closure Areas Sycamore Flats Day Use Horsepasture…
Finger Lake Area Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Finger Lake Area on the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest:Possessing a beverage, which is defined as an alcholic beverage by State law. 36 CFR 261.58(bb) Being in the area after sundown or before sunrise. 36 CFR 261.58(1)
Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River Corridor Regulations- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited within the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River Corridor. This order applies to that portion of the Chattooga: National Wild and Scenic River Corridor within the Nantahala National Forest. Entering or being on the waters within the boundaries of the Chattooga…
Alcoholic Beverage Prohibition- Uwharrie National Forest
Alcohol is prohibited in the following areas on Uwharrie National Forest:Arrow Head CampgroundBadin Lake CampgroundBadin Lake Group CampCanebrake Horse CampBadin Horse CampOverflow Horse CampUwharrie Hunt CampFlintlock Valley Shooting RangeKings Mountain Point Day Use SiteRobbins Branch Wilderness…
Alcoholic Beverage Prohibition- Uwharrie National Forest
Alcohol is prohibited in the following areas on Uwharrie National Forest:Arrow Head CampgroundBadin Lake CampgroundBadin Lake Group CampCanebrake Horse CampBadin Horse CampOverflow Horse CampUwharrie Hunt CampFlintlock Valley Shooting RangeKings Mountain Point Day Use SiteRobbins Branch Wilderness…
Alcoholic Beverage Restriction on Fishers Landing- Croatan National Forest
Alcohol is prohibited within the Fishers Landing Recreation Area, specifically 1,500 feet from the shoreline of the Neuse River
Firearms Range- Nantahala National Forest
The following restrictions apply to shooting ranges on the National Forests in North Carolina listed below: Atoah Shooting Range Moss Knob Shooting Range Dirty John Shooting Range Panther Top Shooting Range Possessing a beverage that is defined as an alcoholic beverage by state law within…
ATVs and Motorcycles
The following orders apply to the Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie and Croatan National Forests in North Carolina. This order applies to all motorcycles being driven off of designated roads and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). For the purpose of this order, ATVs are defined as having a seat to be straddled…
Balsam Lake Day Use Area Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Balsam Lake Day Use Area, Jackson County, Nantahala National Forest. Camping within and around the Balsam Lake Day Use Area, the Tom nMalonee Fishing Trail and Wolf Creek Fishing Trail. Building and or maintaining a fire or campfire. Being in the area…
Whiteside Mountain Recreation Area Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Whiteside Recreation Area Falls Recreation Area:Camping or establishing a campsite. Building and or maintaining a campfire.
Whitewater Falls Recreation Area Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Whitewater Falls Recreation Area, Jackson County, Nantahala National Forest. Camping or establishing a campsite within the Whitewater Falls Recreation Area, the Foothills Trail, Whitewater River Corridor from NC Hwy 281 to the South Carolina State Line as…
Wayah Bald Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on the Wayah Bald Observation Area and the Wayah Bald Picnic Area on the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest:Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campstove. 36 CFR 261.52(a) Camping. 36 CFR 261.58(c)
Arrowood Glade Alcohol Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following act is prohibited in the Arrowood Glade Picnic Area, on the Nantahala Ranger District, Nantahala National Forest: Possessing a beverage which is defined as an alcoholic beverage by State law.
Nantahala River Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on the Nantahala River within the boundaries of the Nantahala National Forest:For public health and safety it is prohibited to enter, ride or float the river without properly wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device 36 CFR…
Upper Nantahala River Camping Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on the Upper Nantahala River Area on the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest: Camping in posted and/or maintained wildlife fields. 36 CFR 261.58(c)
Wilson Lick Ranger Station Prohibitions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited at the Wilson Lick Ranger Station on the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest:Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or camp stove. 36 CFR 261.52(a) Camping. 36 CFR 261.58(e)
Nantahala River Launch Site Fire Restrictions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following act is prohibited on the Nantahala River Launch Site on the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire, campfire or stove fire. 36 CFR 261.52 (a)
Coweeta Hydrological Laboratory Fire Restrictions- Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on the Coweeta Hydrologic Laboratory within the Nantahala Ranger District of the Nantahala National Forest: Building, maintaining, attending or using a fire or campstove. 36 CFR 261.52(a) Camping. 36 CFR 261.58(c)
Wayehutta ORV Area Prohibitions - Nantahala Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Wayehutta ORV Parking Area, Jackson County, Nantahala National Forest. Camping or establishing a campsite within 500 feet of the Wayehutta ORV Parking Area. Building and or maintaining a campfire.Possession of an alcoholic beverage as defined by state…
Firearms- Croatan National Forest
Discharging a firearm within the Croatan National Forest is prohibited expect in the lawful taking of wildlife.
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area Permit Requirement- Grandfather Ranger District
The following act is prohibited in the Linville Gorge Wilderness on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest:Camping October 3 In weekends and Federal Holidays during the period of May 1** through * without a permit. Remaining in the Linville Gorge Wilderness for more than…
Table Rock Mountain, The Chimneys and Woodland Mountain Closure- Grandfather Ranger District
It is prohibited to go into or be upon the listed areas for the protection of a threatened, endangered, rare, unique or vanishing species of plants in the following areas: Table Rock Mountain The Chimneys Woods Mountain
Linville Gorge Wilderness Area Camping Restrictions- Grandfather Ranger District
The following act is prohibited on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, at the following trail heads, along the boundary of the Linville Gorge Wilderness Area and Further described on the attached map:Pine Gap Bynum Bluff Cabin Babel Tower Conley Cave Pinch…
Wiseman View Recreation Area Prohibitions-Grandfather Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Wiseman View Recreation Area beginning at the Kistler Memorial Highway on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, and further described on the attached map: Use of vehicles, non- motorized vehicles or wheeled conveyances (bicycles,…
Seasonal Closure of Badin Lake OHV Trails- Uwharrie National Forest
The following acts are prohibited on designated off-highway vehicle (QHV) trails in the Badin Lake Off-highway Vehicle Recreation Area from December 15 through March 31:Possession or use of a motorized vehicle. 36 CFR 261.53 {(b). Riding, hitching, tethering, or hobbling a horse or other saddle or…
Brown Mountain Alcohol Restrictions- Grandfather Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited in the Brown Mountain OHV (off Highway vehicle) area on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest, and further described on the attached map:Possessing a beverage which is defined as an alcoholic beverage by state law. 36 CFR 261.58(bb).
Wilson Creek Prohibitions- Grandfather Ranger District
The following acts are prohibited on the 2.2 mile section of Wilson Creek on the Grandfather Ranger District of the Pisgah National Forest: Possessing a beverage which is defined as an alcoholic beverage by State Law. 36C 261.58(bb). Camping within 500 feet of Wilson Creek. 36 CFR…
Alcohol Restrictions- Nantahala National Forest
Alcohol is restricted on the following locations on the Nantahala National Forest:Wayah Bald Tower and Picnic Area Fire’s Creek Picnic AreaBig Choga Dispersed Camping Sites Fire’s Creek Hunter’s Camp Dry Falls Recreational Area Jackrabbit Recreation Area Whiteside Mountain Recreation…
Metal Detectors Forest Order
Metal detecting is only allowed on the sand area of certain designated locations:King's Mountain Point in Uwharrie National ForestLake Powhatan Recreation Area on the Pisgah Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest Ray Mines on the Appalachian Ranger District, Pisgah National Forest Jackrabbit…
Pisgah Ranger District Bear Canister Requirement- Pisgah Ranger District
Emergency Requirement to Use Bear Resistant Canisters in: Graveyard Fields Vicinity Shining Rock Wilderness Black Balsam Vicinity Sam’s Knob/Flat Laurel Creek Vicinity All persons camping overnight must use bear-resistant canisters for the storage of all food, refuse, and toiletries in…
Graveyard Field Camping Prohibitions- Pisgah Ranger District
Camping is prohibited in the Graveyard Fields Recreation Area vicinity.
General Forest Order on Camping Limits
The following acts are prohibited on the Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie and Croatan National Forests: Camping or maintaining a campsite in excess of 14 days within any 30 day time period, unless the campsite has been posted with different stay limits by the Forest Service. 36 CFR…
Appalachian National Scenic Trail Forest Order
The following acts are prohibited in the areas described in this Order within the following National Forests: Chattahoochee, Nantahala, Pisgah, Cherokee, George Washington, and Jefferson.Staying more than 3 days within a 30-day period at any single Appalachian National Scenic Trail shelters within…
Flintrock Valley Shooting Range Prohibitions- Uwharrie National Forest
Flintrock Valley Shooting Range rules: It is prohibited to be in the Flintlock Valley Shooting Range Area when the gates on access road 576 are closed and when a Forest Service Range Safety Officer is not present. It is prohibited to be in the Safety Zone at any time, for any purpose. The Safety…
Pisgah Ranger District Bear Canister Requirement
The following act is prohibited in the North Mills River Campground, roadside campsites 1-6 on Yellow Gap Road FDR 1206, roadside campsites 1-9 on Wash Creek Road FDR 5000 and roadside campsites 1-6 on Hendersonville Reservoir Road FDR 142 in the Pisgah National Forest as shown on the attached map…
FSR 361 (Bonds Road) closed due to bridge repair
FSR 361 is closed to vehicular traffic between intersection 1069 and E. 164-2 due to a bridge closure. We will update when the repair has been completed.
Buck Hall Campground closing July 15, 2026
Buck Hall Campground on the Francis Marion National Forest will close for renovations starting July 15, 2026. This is part of an effort to address critical deferred maintenance and upgrade the Buck Hall Recreation Area funded by the Great American Outdoors Act. Read more at…
Part of Worthy's Ferry Road (FS301) temporarily closed
Worthy's Ferry Road (FS301) is temporarily closed to motorized vehicles between mile marker 2.11 to 3.15 and FSR 305K for public safety during a stream restoration project.
Clark's Creek Rd and part of Worthy's Rd temporarily closed
The Enoree Ranger District of Sumter National Forest is temporarily closing Forest Service Road (FSR) 301 (Worthy’s Rd) between mile marker 2.11 to 3.15 and FSR 305K (Clark’s Creek Rd) to motorized vehicles for two years to remove bridges for stream restoration.
Garlington School Road closed between FSR 366E and E91-7 (Enoree RD)
Garlington School Road is closed between FSR 366E and E91-7 for needed bridge maintenance. We will update when the bridge has been repaired.
FSR 1047 closed due to culvert failure (Enoree RD)
Forest Service Road 1047 (off Riser Road) is closed at MP 0.841 for public safety due to failed culverts. We will provide an update when the culverts have been repaired.
FSR 520 “White Creek Rd” is closed at MP 0.55 due to a culvert failure.
FSR 520 “White Creek Rd” on the Long Cane Ranger District is closed at MP 0.55 due to a culvert failure.
FSR 509 "Muckaway Rd" is closed at mileposts 2.53 & 3.01 due to a culvert failure at milepost 2.79.
FSR 509 "Muckaway Rd" on the Long Cane Ranger District is closed at mileposts 2.53 & 3.01 due to a culvert failure at milepost 2.79.
Tibwin Plantation occupancy and use restrictions
Closures for special fishing and hunting lottery hunts for youth hunters and hunters with mobility impairments.
Upper Chattooga River Corridor restrictions
Restrictions on activities within the Chattooga National Wild and Scenic River Corridor for the protection of the public and natural resources. This order affects the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina, the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia, and the Nantahala National Forest in North…
Wambaw Trail closure order
Closures of the north and south loops for deer hunting by dog drives on days set by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
John's Creek Lake occupancy and use restrictions
Restrictions on watercraft speed on John's Creek Lake on the Enoree Ranger District.
Occupancy and use restrictions for food storage
Restrictions on food storage while camping on the Andrew Pickens Ranger District.
Camping occupancy and use restrictions
Forest-wide restrictions for camping on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Lick Fork Lake and Parson's Mountain occupancy and use restrictions - fishing
Fishing prohibitions for Lick Fork Lake and Parson's Mountain Lake on the Long Cane Ranger District.
Lick Fork Lake and Parson's Mountain occupancy and use restrictions - alcoholic beverages
Restrictions on alcoholic beverages in the Lick Fork Lake and Parson's Mountain picnic, swimming, and parking areas on the Long Cane Ranger District.
Forest-wide general prohibitions within boundaries
General prohibitions within the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests, with topics including but not limited to camping, prospecting, water activities, as well as regulations for road access, alcoholic beverages, horse and pack animal use, fireworks and more.
Controlled substance prohibitions
Forest-wide prohibitions on controlled substances and paraphernalia for the protection of public health and safety.
Occupancy and use restrictions for rifle ranges
Forest-wide restrictions on all shooting ranges on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Motor vehicle regulations
Forest-wide motor vehicle regulations on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Developed recreation area prohibitions
Prohibitions for all developed or otherwise designated recreation areas on the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Ban on use of metal detectors
Ban on use of metal detectors within the Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests.
Forest Service Road 301 (Worthys Ferry) Closure
Until further notice, Forest Service Road 301 (Worthys Ferry) on the Enoree Ranger District will be closed between the two intersections where FSR 301 meets with FSR 301E (Feltman). Access to Worthys Bottom will remain open through FSR 301E.
FSR 376 Asias Branch Road closed on Enoree Ranger District
FSR 376 Asias Branch Road, located on the Enoree Ranger District, is closed due to a blown-out culvert. We will update when the road is reopened.
Litchfield Bridge Closure on Francis Marion National Forest
Damage from Tropical Storm Debby on the Francis Marion Ranger District led to an indefinite closure of the Litchfield and Lottie bridges for public and employee safety. Lottie Bridge on FSR 251H has reopened but Litchfield Bridge remains temporarily closed.
Candy Branch Rifle Range closed until further notice
The Candy Branch Rifle Range at Sumter National Forest's Long Cane Ranger District is closed until further notice pending safety review and maintenance.
Emergency Bridge Closure off Forest Service Rd. 251H
A Closure Order (see below) has been placed for an emergency closure of a bridge off of Forest Service Road 251H on the Francis Marion National Forest. Francis Marion & Sumter NFs, Forest-Wide Closure - Order Number: FM-14-01Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(a) and (b), the following acts are prohibited…
FSR 374 (Hunting Fork Rd) closed
Forest Service Road 374 near Whitmire, SC (also known as Hunting Fork Road) is closed due to a washed-out pipe. We will update when the road is repaired.
Check the Call Before You Haul hotline before riding our OHV trails
All OHV trails across Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests are subject to closures on short notice due to inclement weather. Before driving to OHV trails, Call 803-561-4025 Before You Haul for the most recent trail status. The hotline is updated when the trail's open or closed status…
America the Beautiful passes unavailable at Supervisor's & Long Cane offices
America the Beautiful passes are temporarily not available at the Supervisor's Office. Passes are available at our other Forest Service offices in South Carolina. Call ahead to confirm availability.Looking to get a pass to skip entrance fees at national parks and other federal lands? America the…
Please be aware of open well hazards on Sumter National Forest
Old home sites exist across many parts of the Sumter National Forest in South Carolina. Many of these sites still include open, hand-dug wells. The Forest is working to address known well hazards. Known well sites are being signed; however, there may be wells not yet discovered.To report an open…
Forest Service Road 76 (Piney Ridge) temporarily closed
Forest Service Road 76 (Piney Ridge) will remain closed temporarily due to a timber sale occurring on the road. An update will be provided for when the road will open.Forest Service Road 76 is seasonally closed from Jan. 14 through Aug. 29.
Prescribed fire at Redlands Dove Fields
The Oconee Ranger District will conduct a prescribed fire at Redlands Dove Fields today. Please use caution along Highway 15 in Greene County, Ga.
Forest Service Roads 207 and 207A (Stover Creek) temporarily closed due to road maintenance.
Forest Service roads 207 and 207A (Stover Creek) are temporarily closed due to road maintenance and for public safety.
Peavine Sheeds Road Closure for repairs
Phase one road construction on Peavine Sheeds Creek Road/FS 221, on the Cherokee National Forest north of the Jacks River bridge into Tennessee will be closed heading west from July 20 – Sept 14. Phase two construction beginning September 15 will close Peavine Sheeds Creek Road/FS 221 east, …
Emery Creek Trailhead – Intermittent Closures Beginning August 5
Emery Creek Trailhead – Intermittent Closures Beginning August 5The Emery Creek Trailhead will experience intermittent closures from August 5 through the end of December while crews work to expand and improve the parking area. Visitors should be prepared for temporary access restrictions during…
Rough Ridge Trail 12 closed (Cohutta Wilderness)
The Rough Ridge Trail (#12) in the Cohutta Wilderness (Conasauga Ranger District) is 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. These combined impacts have…
Old CCC Camp Road / Forest Service Road 18 – Temporary Closure Beginning September 8
Road paving crews will be working through November to pave the section of roadway that runs directly alongside Holly Creek. This project will help reduce ongoing erosion and protect water quality in one of the state’s most important aquatic habitats.
Forest Service Road 205, Taylor Ridge temporarily closed.
FS 205 Taylor Ridge has been graded and the recent rains have left some slick areas. In the interest of public safety and to protect the resource, the road will be temporarily closed until gravel has been applied.
Heavy Equipment on Forest Service Roads 201, 205 and 630.
Be prepared to meet heavy equipment grading these roads on the Conasauga Ranger District: FS 201 Jenkins Gap, FS 205 Taylor Ridge, and FS 630 Mill Creek.
Temporary Closure of Swords Parking Lot for Line-painting
The Oconee Ranger District has temporarily closed the Swords Recreation Area parking lot to allow repainting of parking space lines.Visitors are asked to avoid closed areas until July 3, 2026.For more information, contact the Oconee Ranger District.
Heavy Equipment on Forest Service Roads 17, 64, and 22.
Be prepared to meet heavy equipment grading West Cowpen (FS 17) ,Three Forks (FS 64), and Tumbling Creek (FS 22).
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 streambeds. Stay…
Campground Updates: Low Gap now OPEN and Water System Changes at Upper Chattahoochee & Andrews Cove
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 has reopened, following replacement of the restroom facilities.Drinking water is unavailable…
14 Day Camping Limit
Camping or maintaining a campsite on National Forest System lands within any area of the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest exceeding an aggregate of 14 days in any 30-day period is prohibited. Once a combination of any 14 days has been reached, individuals must remove their property and leave…
Duncan Ridge Road reopens following culvert replacement project
The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has reopened Duncan Ridge Road (FSR 39) following completion of culvert replacement work at Mulky Creek on the Blue Ridge Ranger District. The project replaced an aging culvert at the creek crossing to improve long-term road reliability, protect water…
Forest Service Road 816 / Tooni Gap Road to Swinging Bridge Temporary Closure - May 18-21
The Blue Ridge Ranger District will temporarily close Forest Service Road 816 / Tooni Gap Road to the swinging bridge over the Toccoa River on Monday morning, May 18th, to allow district staff to implement the next phase of the parking lot project.Experienced crews from the Forest Service and…
Campfire restriction lifted on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest
Campfire restrictions on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest have been lifted effective May 4, 2026. Recent weather conditions have improved enough to reduce wildfire risk across the Forest. Visitors may resume campfires in designated areas and should always use established fire rings where…
Spring 2026 Forest-wide Fire Restrictions
The purpose and need of this Fire Restriction Closure Order is to prohibit activities relating to building, maintaining, or attending a fire (including charcoal fires) within unauthorized areas on the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests comprising the Blue Ridge Ranger District, Chattooga River…
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.
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,…
CAUTION Waterfall Dangers
While beautiful, waterfalls pose risks to visitors. Each year serious injuries and fatalities occur at Georgia waterfalls.
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, Georgia All visitors and users of the National Forests are subject to Federal Regulations. The…
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
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.
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…
Campsite limitations
Specific Camping prohibitions1. Camping for more than 14 days in developed and dispersed areas. Camping in anylocation is limited to 14 consecutive days. On the 14th consecutive day, the camper andparty must leave that area/campground for a minimum of seven days before returning foranother stay. If…
Citico Creek Flood Closure
Significant flood occurred in the Citico Creek watershed, Tellico Ranger District. Large potions of road is washed out and the route is currently closed from Indian Boundary to approximately Camp 11. The road is impassable and access is currently closed to motorized vehicles. NFSR 35-1 Citico…
Peavine Sheeds Road Closure for repairs
Forest Service begins phased construction to Peavine Sheeds Road, FS 221, south of Parksville Lake in the Ocoee Ranger District. Phase 1 will disrupt access beginning July 16 from 35.0072,-84.6889 to 34.9889, -84.6339 as depicted in the graphic. Major repairs will address storm damage. Marked…
Emergency road closures due to storm damage
The Cherokee National Forest has enacted emergency closures to Hurricane Gap Road (NFSR 31) Closed on Rollins Chapel Road side from Mile Post 1.116 to Mile Post 1.665Dick Creek Road (NFSR 307)In addition HWY 395 is now closed blocking Unaka Mnt. access from Indian Gap.
One Unaka Ranger District Campgrounds now closed due to storm
Recent weather caused significant damage to key routes on the Unaka Ranger District causing two campgrounds to close. Paint Creek and Horse Creek campgrounds were closed. Horse Creek is now reopened.
Warden Field (Citico Campsite #14) Limited to day use
Warden Field on the Tellico Ranger District is now limited to day use only. It is unlawful to enter or remain at Citico Campsite #14 (Warden Field) during the night period from 10p.m. to 6a.m. of every day during the time period of the 12th of May, 2026 through the 8th of September, 2026.
Little Milligan Boat Launch Re-opens
Little Milligan Boat Launch is scheduled to reopen June 27 for the 2026 boating season. A safety closure disrupted access while loggers salvaged downed timber from Hurricane Helene. Downed timber from Hurricane Helene poses an ever- increasing wildfire risk. Thank you for your patience.
Camping not permitted within 300 feet of the Cherohala Skyway
Camping restricted along Skyway to beyond 300 yards.
motorboats restricted on Forest Service Lakes
Possession or operating a vessel powered by an internal combustion engine of any size or propelled by any other machinery rated greater than 5 horsepower is prohibited on McKamy Lake, Indian Boundary Lake, and Allen Branch Pond.
Roan Mountain Fire Restrictions
Fire Restrictions Continue Along the Appalachian Trail
Closure order prohibiting protected areas pertaining to Paint Rock
Going into or being upon or in the area of closure (this includes all forms ofpresence, including as a pedestrian or by any and all other means)
Wilderness Closure Orders
This Forest Order is associated with Wilderness Areas limitations concerning stay duration, group size limits, mechanized equipment, camping and camping equipment.
Donley Cabin Camping Limitations
Limits to Donley Cabin exist to preserve small group opportunities in a remote setting. No overnight occupancy by more than 6 persons. No stays in the area except for 6 person limit authorized between sundown and sunrise. No discharge of firearm, air rifle, or gas gun within 500 feet of Donley…
Equestrian animals prohibited around Citico Creek
Equestrian animals are prohibited from going into or being upon the critical habitat portion of Citico Creek for the protection of threatened and endanger species.
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