Devil’s Backbone State Forest

 

Overview

Devil’s Backbone State Forest covers 705.5 acres in Shenandoah County. Management focuses on demonstration of scientific forest management, applied forest research, development of diverse wildlife habitat, watershed protection, forest management to develop diverse timber stands that support biological diversity, and passive outdoor recreation.

The ridge on the top of the state forest is approximately 7,000 feet in length and 180 feet wide. The terrain in this stand is quite rough due to the 35% to 70% slopes, rock outcrops, and heavy underbrush. The top of the mountain is narrow in most places; however, broad flats occur periodically along its summit. Several intermittent and perennial streams exist on the property.

×To ensure your safety and enjoyment, please read Before You Visit when planning your trip to a state forest.

At a Glance

Access Status: Open to the Public
Hours: Open daily from dawn until dusk

MAP

Physical Address:
Latitude/Longitude:
39° 3′ 1.3″, -78° 26′ 24.2″

Parking/Access: Access from Brocks Lane off Route 621
Parking area on Brocks Lane
Brocks Lane past the parking area is not accessible for public use.

Restroom Facilities: None

Visitors are asked to adopt a “leave-no-trace” ethic when visiting the forest, as there are no restrooms or trash cans on the forest itself. ​ ​

Other Facilities: None
Seasonal Closures: None

DOF recommends that all forest visitors wear blaze orange or pink during hunting seasons.

Forest History

By conveyance of title, John L. Hoffman and Bernice I. Hoffman deeded by gift 537.048 acres to the Virginia Department of Forestry between 1995 and 2013. 85.736 acres was purchased from the Hoffman Estate in 2016. Mrs. Judith Dyke by conveyance of title gifted 44.171 acres in 2002. An additional 26.627 acres was acquired through quitclaim deed in 2008.

Forest Management

Management objectives for the Devil’s Backbone State Forest have been developed to achieve multiple-use benefits, including watershed protection, forest management, wildlife habitat, forest recreation, education and research activities.

Upland hardwood silviculture is of primary importance on the forest. Intensive forest management on the existing loblolly stands is leading to their conversion to shortleaf pine or upland hardwoods as they reach rotation. Prescribed fire is used when appropriate to improve wildlife habitat. Research sites and demonstration areas may be developed in the future.

Recreational Opportunities

Recreational uses of the Devil’s Backbone State Forest include hiking, biking, limited hunting, and wildlife watching. Hiking is the most common recreational use with many visitors.

Visitors are asked to adopt a “leave-no-trace” ethic when visiting the forest, as there are no restrooms or trash cans on the forest itself.

ATV/ORV use, camping, and swimming are prohibited on all State Forests.

A State Forest Use Permit* is required for individuals aged 16 and older to hunt, fish, trap, horseback ride, or mountain bike on state forest lands. The permit can be purchased online or where hunting licenses are sold.

Trails and Roads

  • 2 miles of gated forest roads (no vehicles)
  • No driving past forest gates.
  • No developed trails on the forest. Future plans include developing a hiking trail to the summit.

Hiking

Hiking is permitted on all forest roads.

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is permitted on all forest roads.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is limited to forest roads.

State law requires that visitors carry a copy of a negative Coggins test report with each horse on state lands.

Fishing and Boating

None

Hunting and Trapping

Archery and black powder hunting are permitted with a valid State Forest Use Permit and valid hunting license in accordance with state regulations. Note that some regulations may be different than on private land, so check Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources Hunting Regulations for specific state forest details.

Other Recreational Opportunities

Other passive recreational opportunities, such as wildlife watching and nature photography, are available.

Educational Opportunities
  • Self-learning opportunities are available.

Explore tree and wildlife identification, study rock formations, or simply observe nature. The forest demonstrates forest management, harvesting techniques, and best management practices to landowners, loggers, and industry professionals.

Local schools can use the state forest for educational purposes.

Contact Us

For more information or questions, e-mail us or use our contact form.

State Forest Main Office
Located at Cumberland State Forest
751 Oak Hill Road, Cumberland, VA 23040-2511
E-mail | (804) 492-4121

Local Contact
Jack Kauffman, Forest Manager
900 Natural Resources Drive, Suite 800, Charlottesville, VA 22903
E-mail | (540)395-1226

Maps and Additional Resources
ImageTitleIDDescriptionContent TypeViewhf:tax:document-categoryhf:tax:Media
Devil's Backbone State Forest – General Map
Devil’s Backbone State Forest – General Map

General map of Devil’s Backbone State Forest. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, please read Before You Visit when planning your trip to a state forest. Download or print this state forest map – many state forests are remote with limited cell phone service. These maps will work with Avenza Maps™, a mobile map app that allows you to track your movements offline on your iOS and Android device without the need for cell service or internet connection. A free version of this app can be downloaded to your device through your app store.

Viewstate-forestsmap
Devil's Backbone State Forest – Hunting Map
Devil’s Backbone State Forest – Hunting Map

Hunting map of Devil’s Backbone State Forest. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, please read Before You Visit when planning your trip to a state forest. Download or print this state forest map – many state forests are remote with limited cell phone service. These maps will work with Avenza Maps™, a mobile map app that allows you to track your movements offline on your iOS and Android device without the need for cell service or internet connection. A free version of this app can be downloaded to your device through your app store.

Viewstate-forestsmap
Devil's Backbone State Forest Hunting Season Brief
Devil’s Backbone State Forest Hunting Season Brief

This information sheet provides a brief summary about hunting season in Devil’s Backbone State Forest, including various hunting seasons, dates and times. Visit Department of Wildlife Resources for full hunting regulations and seasons.

Viewstate-forestsdocument