George Washington and Jefferson National Forests stretch across 1.8 million acres of the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and into parts of Kentucky and West Virginia. The area contains more than 40 species of trees, and most of them are pines or hardwoods. It is also home to over 2,000 species of plants, 100 species of fish and mussels, and over 200 species of birds. These forests are a great place to go hiking to see the 60 mammals that live in the area. The National Forest Service has administered these two forests as one unit since 1995.
Camping in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Camping is a wonderful way to explore all that George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer. Bringing your RV allows you more time to go hiking, biking, fishing, and stargazing. If you do not have an RV, then rent one on RVshare.com, as you will not want to miss out on a moment of the fun.
-
Hungry Mother State Park Camp Burson
You can camp in units up to 30-feet long at Camp Burson in Hungry Mother State Park. Rent a boat to explore the lake or go swimming and hiking. Rates start at about $35 per night.
-
Hurricane Campground
Camp while surrounded by rhododendron and listening to a mountain stream at Hurricane Campground. This campground within George Washington and Jefferson Forests offers easy access to the Appalachian Trail. Rates start at about $20 per night.
-
Grindstone Campground
Grindstone Campground is tucked away in a quiet spot in the Fairwood Valley area of George Washington and Jefferson National Forests. Each site at this campground near the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers a picnic table and fire ring. Rates start at about $20 per night.
-
Backbone Rock Campground
Backbone Rock Campground in Cherokee National Forest offers easy access to hiking trails leading to Backbone Rock. This campground’s higher elevation means it often stays cooler in the summer. Rates start at about $10 per night.
How to get to George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Address: 3714 VA-16, Marion, Virginia 24354
Fee: Entry fee $0
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Virginia offer tremendous opportunities to go hiking, stargazing, fishing, and see plants and animals. While you can enter many parts of these two locations for free, many day-use areas charge separate fees. A great way to explore these forests and the surrounding towns is in an RV. Pack up your RV and head there soon. You can still enjoy visiting these national forests if you do not have an RV because you can easily rent one on RVshare.com.
Frequently Asked Questions About George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Does George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer free camping sites?
Yes, George Washington And Jefferson National Forests offer free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed in many parts of the forest. Dispersed camping means there are no amenities - campers must pack in and out everything they need for their stay. There are also developed campgrounds available for a small fee.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in George Washington And Jefferson National Forests. Campers are allowed to stay for a maximum of 14 consecutive days in the forest. Bolar Mountain Campground is the only exception, with a 21-day limit.
Is George Washington and Jefferson National Forests open all year round?
Yes, George Washington And Jefferson National Forests are open all year-round. In summer, campers can go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and fishing. In winter, they can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and more.
Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?
Yes, you do need a permit to hunt in George Washington And Jefferson National Forests. If you are 16 or older, you need a fishing license to fish in the forest as well.
What type of wildlife lives in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests?
Wildlife in the George Washington And Jefferson National Forests includes deer, water shrews, rock voles, and several other threatened or endangered species. The forest also has a variety of birds, fish, and reptiles that live within its boundaries.
