VDOF manages 26 State Forest totaling 71,972 acres. Most Virginia state forests are accessible to the public. Virginia’s state forests offer abundant passive recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing.
Permissible uses vary among individual forests, so visit the web page for each state forest to find out what is allowed and available.
While you won’t find amenities like cabins, campgrounds, or even restrooms at most state forests, you will find unique opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and observe wildlife and forestry practices in action. A State Forest Use Permit is required for hunting, trapping, fishing, mountain biking, and horseback riding; other appropriate licenses may be additionally required for certain activities (i.e., hunting, trapping, fishing).
Visitors asked to adopt a “leave-no-trace” ethic when visiting the forest, as there are generally no restrooms or trash cans on the forests themselves.
Visitors are expected to observe all signs and state forest regulations. VDOF recommends that all forest visitors wear blaze orange or pink during hunting seasons.
Camping
While camping, either temporary or permanent is not permitted on state forests, the state forest manager may issue special Camping Permits for organized groups or special events, such as Boy or Girl Scout Troops. Contact the state forest headquarters about group Camping Permits.
Hunting
A number of state forests allow hunting. Some state forests offer limited hunting, such as a lottery permit. It is essential that hunters visit the appropriate state forest webpage for information specific to the state forest.
Hunters must obey all signs, respect no hunting safe zones, follow all state hunting regulations, obtain a state forest use permit in addition to required hunting licenses.
Before You Visit
To ensure your safety and enjoyment, please read Before You Visit when planning your trip to a state forest.
Additional Resources
| Image | Title | ID | Description | Content Type | document-category_hfilter | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest Recreation and Trails Map | P00171 | Map introduces recreation and trails, including trail segments, descriptions and distances, located on the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest in Appomattox and Buckingham counties. | Publication | View | state-forests |
 | Cumberland State Forest Recreation and Trails Map | P00170 | Map introduces recreation and trails, including trail segments, descriptions and distances, located on the Cumberland State Forest in Cumberland County. | Publication | View | state-forests |
Contact Us
For more information or questions, e-mail us with “state forest name” in the subject line for specific state forest inquiries or use our contact form.