Recreation.gov is your premier online portal to explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities offered by the National Forest Service across the United States. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil camping getaway, an invigorating hike through ancient forests, or the perfect spot to reconnect with nature, the National Forest Service, in partnership with Recreation.gov, provides access to unforgettable experiences. Start planning your adventure today and create lasting memories in America’s treasured national forests.
Unveiling the Wonders of the National Forest Service
The National Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public lands, encompassing national forests and grasslands, offering a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the serene lakes of the Midwest and the lush forests of the East Coast, each National Forest Service site boasts unique ecosystems and recreational activities. Recreation.gov serves as your central hub to discover these incredible destinations and plan your perfect escape into nature.
Explore Destinations and Activities in National Forests
Imagine waking up to the crisp mountain air in a National Forest Service campground, spending your day hiking scenic trails surrounded by towering trees, or casting a line in a pristine river teeming with fish. With the National Forest Service and Recreation.gov, these experiences are within reach. You can explore a wide array of activities, including:
- Camping: Discover campgrounds nestled in picturesque National Forest Service locations, from developed sites with amenities to more remote, primitive camping experiences.
- Hiking and Backpacking: Traverse thousands of miles of trails within National Forest Service lands, catering to all skill levels, from leisurely nature walks to challenging multi-day backpacking trips.
- Water Activities: Enjoy swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing in the lakes and rivers managed by the National Forest Service.
- Wildlife Viewing: Observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats within the protected ecosystems of National Forest Service areas.
- Scenic Drives: Explore breathtaking landscapes and panoramic vistas along designated scenic byways and roads within National Forest Service forests and grasslands.
- Ranger Programs: Engage with knowledgeable National Forest Service rangers and participate in educational programs and guided tours to deepen your understanding of the natural world.
- Special Use Permits: For activities like Christmas tree cutting, events, or research within National Forest Service lands, Recreation.gov provides access to necessary permits.
Find Your Ideal National Forest by State
Recreation.gov simplifies your search for the perfect National Forest Service destination by allowing you to explore by state. Whether you’re planning a local getaway or a cross-country adventure, you can easily browse National Forest Service options in each state:
Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming
Popular National Forest Destinations
Discover some of the most sought-after National Forest Service destinations across the country. These locations offer a glimpse into the diverse beauty and recreational opportunities within National Forest Service lands:
Allegheny National Forest Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests Pawnee National Grasslands Ashley National Forest Bighorn National Forest Bitterroot National Forest Black Hills National Forest Boise National Forest Caribou-Targhee National Forest Cherokee National Forest Chugach National Forest Cleveland National Forest Coconino National Forest Recreation Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Custer Gallatin National Forest Custer National Forest Daniel Boone National Forest Deschutes National Forest Dixie National Forest Eldorado National Forest Flathead National Forest George Washington & Jefferson National Forest Gifford Pinchot National Forest Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest Hiawatha National Forest Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest Headquarters Huron-Manistee National Forests Idaho Panhandle National Forests Inyo National Forest Kaibab National Forest Los Padres National Forest Manti-La Sal National Forest Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest Mt. Hood National Forest National Forests in Florida National Forests in North Carolina Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest Plumas National Forest Prescott National Forest PSICC Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest Salmon-Challis National Forest San Bernardino National Forest San Juan National Forest Sawtooth National Forest Sequoia National Forest Shasta-Trinity National Forest Sierra National Forest Siuslaw National Forest Stanislaus National Forest Superior National Forest Tahoe National Forest Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Umpqua National Forest Wallowa Whitman National Forest White Mountain National Forest White River National Forest Willamette National Forest
Plan Your National Forest Adventure
Recreation.gov provides the resources you need to meticulously plan your National Forest Service adventure. From securing campsites and permits to discovering hidden gems and insider tips, we empower you to create a seamless and enriching outdoor experience.
Camping and Day Use in National Forests
Return to your beloved National Forest Service campground or venture into a new one that perfectly suits your needs. Recreation.gov simplifies the reservation process for campsites and day-use areas within National Forest Service locations, ensuring you have a guaranteed spot to enjoy the great outdoors.
Interagency Passes: Your Gateway to Federal Lands including National Forests
Maximize your access to National Forest Service sites and other federal lands with Interagency Passes, available through Recreation.gov. These annual or lifetime passes cover entrance and amenity fees at thousands of federal recreation sites, making exploring National Forest Service areas and beyond more affordable and convenient.
Tours and Tickets for Unique National Forest Experiences
Enhance your National Forest Service visit by reserving tours and tickets for special events and experiences offered within select locations. These could include guided cave tours, historical site visits, or exclusive ranger-led programs, providing deeper engagement with the natural and cultural heritage of National Forest Service lands.
Christmas Tree Permits from National Forests
Embrace a cherished holiday tradition by cutting your own Christmas tree from a National Forest Service forest. Recreation.gov is your official source for obtaining Christmas tree permits online. Gather your loved ones, venture into a participating National Forest Service location, and create lasting memories while selecting your perfect tree.
Learn More about Christmas Tree Permits
Gear Rentals for Your National Forest Trip
Planning your National Forest Service adventure is made even easier with convenient gear rental options available through Recreation.gov. Whether you need an RV for comfortable travel or essential camping and hiking equipment, you can find reliable rental services to equip you for your outdoor pursuits.
Inspiration and Information for Exploring National Forests
Dive into our extensive library of articles, travel guides, and visitor stories for inspiration and valuable information to plan your National Forest Service trips. Discover insider tips, hidden trails, and breathtaking viewpoints within National Forest Service forests and grasslands, ensuring you make the most of your time in nature.
What’s New in National Forests on Recreation.gov
We are constantly expanding our offerings to include new National Forest Service locations and activities on Recreation.gov. Stay updated on the latest additions and discover even more opportunities to explore the wonders of the National Forest Service.
View all of the new locations on Recreation.gov
Stay Connected with National Forest Service and Recreation.gov
Keep informed about the latest news, events, and updates from Recreation.gov and the National Forest Service. Download the Recreation.gov mobile app, follow us on social media, and stay engaged with the community of outdoor enthusiasts passionate about exploring National Forest Service lands.
Camp, RV, and Explore the National Forests
Recreation.gov is your ultimate gateway to discovering and experiencing the unparalleled beauty and recreational opportunities within America’s National Forest Service lands. We provide the tools, resources, and inspiration to plan unforgettable trips, connect with nature, and create lasting memories in the heart of our national forests. Begin your National Forest Service adventure with Recreation.gov today!
