VIRGINIA
Virginia is a state located in the eastern region of the United States. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and scenic landscapes. From the beaches of Virginia Beach to the rolling hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia has a lot to offer for those who appreciate natural beauty. The state is also home to numerous museums and historical landmarks, including Colonial Williamsburg and Monticello, the former home of Thomas Jefferson. With a population of over 8 million people, Virginia is a bustling state that offers a mix of urban and rural environments.
The national forests in Virginia are known for their scenic beauty, diverse wildlife, and recreational opportunities. These forests offer visitors a chance to hike, camp, fish, and hunt in a natural setting. The forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bear, and many species of birds. Visitors can explore scenic rivers and waterfalls, rugged mountains, and rolling hills. The forests also provide important ecological services, including clean air and water, carbon storage, and habitat for rare and endangered species.
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are two separate national forests located in the Appalachian Mountains of Virginia and West Virginia, but they are managed together as a single unit. Collectively, they cover over 1.8 million acres of land and are known for their lush forests, scenic vistas, and diverse wildlife. The forests offer a range of recreational activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting, as well as scenic drives and interpretive programs. The Appalachian Trail runs through both forests, offering visitors a chance to experience the rugged beauty of the region. Additionally, the forests are home to several unique features, such as the Natural Bridge, a 215-foot limestone arch that has been designated as a National Historic Landmark, and the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, which is home to the highest peak in Virginia. Check out more information here! https://www.fs.usda.gov/gwj
Clinch Ranger District
1700 Park Avenue SW Norton, VA 24273
(276) 679-8370
Eastern Divide Ranger District
110 Southpark Drive Blacksburg, VA 24060
(540) 552-4641
Glenwood-Pedlar Ranger District
27 Ranger Lane Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579
(540) 291-2188
James River and Warm Springs Ranger District
422 Forestry Road Hot Springs, VA 24445
(540) 839-2521
Lee Ranger District
95 Railroad Avenue Edinburg, VA 22824
(540) 984-4101
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
3714 Highway 16 Marion, VA 24354
Toll Free: 1 (800) 628-7202 or Local: (276) 783-5196
North River District
401 Oakwood Drive Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Toll Free: 1 (866) 904-0240 or Local: (540) 432-0187
Vehicle Use Map (George Washington and Jefferson)
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages a small amount of public lands in Virginia, primarily in the southwestern part of the state. These lands are managed for multiple uses, including recreation, energy development, and wildlife habitat conservation. The BLM lands in Virginia offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping. The lands are known for their scenic beauty, diverse ecosystems, and historic sites. The BLM’s Virginia lands are part of the National Conservation Lands, which includes designated wilderness areas, national monuments, and other protected lands managed by the BLM across the country.
The Lower Potomac Field Station, owned and operated by the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, is a research and education facility located on the shores of the Potomac River in southern Maryland. Its 2,650-acre property includes wetlands, forests, and agricultural fields, making it an ideal location for studying the local ecosystems. The facility is equipped with laboratories, classrooms, and housing for researchers and students, as well as boats and other equipment for fieldwork on the river and in the surrounding areas. The Lower Potomac Field Station provides an important resource for scientific research and education, attracting scientists and students from around the world to study topics such as water quality, nutrient cycling, and the impacts of climate change on the environment You can check out more information here! https://www.blm.gov/office/lower-potomac-field-station
Meadowood Special Recreation Management Area
10406 Gunston Road Lorton, VA 22079
703-339-8009
Douglas Point Special Recreation Area
9699 Riverside Road Nanjemoy, MD 20662
Use the Meadowood Special Recreation Area number above to get in contact
There aren’t any grasslands in Virginia!
tips and tricks
Virginia is known as the “Mother of Presidents” because eight U.S. presidents were born there.
Virginia is also known as the “Old Dominion” because it was the first English colony in North America.
Virginia is home to many historic sites, including Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in the Americas, and Colonial Williamsburg, a living history museum that recreates life in colonial Virginia.
When visiting Virginia, be sure to take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, visit the historic Monticello estate, and explore the natural beauty of Shenandoah National Park.
do’s and dont’s
plan ahead for camping and parking spots, especially in popular areas such as Shenandoah National Park.
Be respectful of the environment and wildlife when exploring the state’s natural areas.
Don’t underestimate the weather conditions, as Virginia can experience extreme temperatures and weather events.
Don’t park or camp overnight in prohibited areas, such as private property or national park areas where camping is not allowed.
