The Angeles National Forest covers a total of 700,176 acres, protecting large areas of the San Gabriel Mountains and Sierra Pelona Mountains. It is located just north of the densely inhabited metropolitan area of Greater Los Angeles.

While primarily within Los Angeles County, a small part extends eastward into southwestern San Bernardino County, in the Mount San Antonio ("Mount Baldy") area, and a tiny section also extends westward into northeastern Ventura County, in the Lake Piru area.

Location: California

Angelina National Forest

Angelina National Forest is a United States National Forest, one of four located in the piney woods region of Texas. The 153,180-acre Angelina National Forest is located in East Texas in parts of San Augustine, Angelina, Jasper and Nacogdoches counties. It is managed together with the three other National Forests in Texas (Davy Crockett, Sabine, and Sam Houston) from Forest Service offices in Lufkin, Texas. There are local district offices located in Zavalla. The forest lies in the Neches River Basin and on the north and south shores of Sam Rayburn Reservoir. Longleaf pine is the predominant cover type in the southern portion of the forest, while loblolly and shortleaf pine are dominant species in the northern portion and abundant throughout.

Location: Texas

Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest

The Apache–Sitgreaves National Forests are two 2.76-million-acre National Forests which run along the Mogollon Rim and the White Mountains in east-central Arizona and into the U.S. state of New Mexico. Both forests are managed as one unit by USDA Forest Service from the forests Supervisors Office in Springerville, Arizona. Apache–Sitgreaves has over 400 species of wildlife[citation needed]. With its high elevation and cool summer breezes it is a popular weekend destination from the hot desert for Phoenix, Arizona, residents. The forest is divided into 5 Ranger Districts (Clifton, Alpine, Springerville, Lakeside, and Black Mesa) that span almost 300 miles from Clifton, Arizona in the east-central portion of Arizona to the eastern boundary of the Coconino National Forest in north-central Arizona.

Location: Arizona

Arapaho National Forest

The forest is located in the Rocky Mountains, straddling the continental divide in the Front Range west of Denver. It was established on July 1, 1908, by President Theodore Roosevelt and named for the Arapaho tribe of Native Americans which previously inhabited the Colorado Eastern Plains. The forest includes part of the high Rockies and river valleys in the upper watershed of the Colorado River and South Platte River. The forest is largely in Grand and Clear Creek counties, but spills over into neighboring (in descending order of land area) Gilpin, Park, Routt, Jackson, and Jefferson counties. There are local ranger district offices located in Granby and Idaho Springs.

Location: Colorado

Ashley National Forest

Occupying a large piece of Ashley National Forest are the Uinta Mountains. With a main crest stretching more than 60 miles and surrounded by massive secondary ridges extending north and south, this mountain range is the largest alpine area located in the Intermountain west. This mountain range also contains Kings Peak, the highest peak in Utah at 13,528 feet. Hundreds of lakes, streams, and meadows can be found within the many basins located in the mountain range. The Uinta Mountains are also the home to many different types of wildlife including, elk, moose, mule deer, coyotes, black bears, ptarmigan, several raptor species, beavers, marten, river otters, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, cougars, pikas, and marmots. The mountains also contain 16 designated trails (545 miles) for visitors to explore from June to September.

Location: Utah

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

The largest of the national forests in Montana, the Beaverhead-Deerlodge covers 3.35 million acres and lies in eight Southwest Montana counties: Granite, Powell, Jefferson, Deer Lodge, Silver Bow, Madison, Gallatin and Beaverhead.

The forest provides timber, minerals, and grazing lands. It also offers breath-taking scenery for a wide variety of recreational pursuits. Whether it's wilderness trekking in the Anaconda-Pintler or Lee Metcalf wildernesses, driving the Gravelly Range Road or Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, or camping in one of the 50 small to medium-sized campgrounds in the forest, the Beaverhead-Deerlodge has it all.

Location: Montana

Bitterroot National Forest

Bitterroot National Forest comprises 1.587 million acres in west-central Montana and eastern Idaho, of the United States. It is located primarily in Ravalli County, Montana (70.26% of the forest), but also has acreage in Idaho County, Idaho (29.24%), and Missoula County, Montana (0.49%).

Founded in 1898, the forest is located in the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains with elevations ranging from 2,200 feet along the Salmon River in Idaho to 10,157 foot Trapper Peak. Roughly half the forest (743,000 acres) make up part or all of three distinct Wilderness areas. These areas include the Anaconda-Pintler, Selway-Bitterroot and Frank Church River of No Return Wildernesses. The distinction is that in wilderness areas, no roads, logging, mining or other construction is permitted and all access must be done either on foot or horseback; even bicycles are not permitted. Hunting, however is allowed forest-wide including wilderness areas.

Located in: Montana

Black Hills National Forest

The Black Hills, in western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, consists of 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains, approximately 110 miles long and 70 miles wide.

The name "Black Hills" comes from the Lakota words Paha Sapa, which mean "hills that are black." Seen from a distance, these pine-covered hills, rising several thousand feet above the surrounding prairie, appear black.

Millions of visitors come to the Black Hills each year to experience the rich and diverse heritage.

Location: Wyoming

Boise National Forest

The Idaho Batholith underlies most of Boise National Forest, forming the forest's Boise, Salmon River, and West mountain ranges; the forest reaches a maximum elevation of 9,730 feet on Steel Mountain. Common land cover includes sagebrush steppe and spruce-fir forests; there are 9,600 miles of streams and rivers and 15,400 acres of lakes and reservoirs. Boise National Forest contains 75 percent of the known populations of Sacajawea's bitterroot, a flowering plant endemic to Idaho.

Location: Idaho

Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Caribou and Targhee National Forests were combined from original forest lands created in 1891. Two designated wilderness areas are located in the easternmost sections of the forest, bordering on National Park lands. The 123,451-acre Jedediah Smith Wilderness is adjacent to Grand Teton National Park on the western slope of the Teton Range. Known for karst limestone formations, the wilderness has many caves and provides excellent views of the less often seen west face of the Teton peaks. The smaller 10,715-acre Winegar Hole Wilderness borders Yellowstone National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, and was set aside primarily to protect prime grizzly bear habitat.

While western sections of the forest have a mixture of sagebrush and grasses, the higher elevations in the east support lodgepole pine, and numerous species of spruce and fir. In addition to grizzlies most of the major megafauna associated with Yellowstone National Park can be found in Caribou–Targhee National Forest. Mammalian species of black bear, wolf, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, cougar, and pronghorn have all been seen by visitors on forest lands. An active peregrine falcon recovery program was begun to return this bird species to some of their ancestral range. Cutthroat trout, brook trout and pike are found in the streams and lakes and the forest is considered one of the best fishing areas in the world for cutthroat trout.

Located in: Idaho

Chequamegon National Forest

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest covers more than 1.5 million acres of Wisconsin's Northwoods. The USDA Forest Service manages the land for multiple uses including forestry, wildlife habitat, recreation, harvesting of forest products, fisheries, and wilderness and natural areas.

The Chequamegon side of the forest covers about 858,400 acres in Ashland, Bayfield, Sawyer, Price, Taylor, and Vilas counties, while the Nicolet side of the forest covers nearly 661,400 acres in Florence, Forest, Langlade, Oconto, Oneida, and Vilas counties.

Located in: Wisconsin

Chugach National Forest

This stunning landscape stretches across south-central Alaska, from the salty waters and snowy peaks of Prince William Sound to the fabulous salmon and trout streams of the Kenai Peninsula, covering an area the size of New Hampshire. It is one of the few places left in the world where glaciers still grind valleys into the hard rock of the earth.

A tapestry of land, water, plants, and animals.

Its geographic diversity is unique among national forests. The three distinct landscapes of the Copper River Delta, the Eastern Kenai Peninsula, and Prince William Sound are destinations for adventurers and nature enthusiasts the world over and are once-in-a-lifetime destinations for a million visitors each year. You’ll find a special place here, camping with family and friends, cruising the Sound, or watching a million shorebirds. You’ll see Alaskans living and working in the national forest. They are guiding visitors on kayak adventures, working gold claims, commercial fishing for Copper River reds, following a traditional way of life.

Located in: Alaska

Chippewa National Forest

The Chippewa National Forest, located in the heart of northern Minnesota, is a celebration of seasons, culture and environment. Come explore the big lakes, big pines and all the Forest has to offer.

The Chippewa National Forest was the first national forest established east of the Mississippi River in 1908. Originally known as the Minnesota National Forest, the name was changed in 1928 to honor the original inhabitants. Today, the Forest and Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe share goals and offer visitors a chance to experience Anishinabe culture and learn about the past from prehistory to the early logging-era and Civilian Conservation Corps days.

Located in: Minnesota

Cibola National Forest

The Cibola National Forest and National Grasslands encompasses 1.9 million acres. The 4 “sky island” ranger districts: Sandia, Mountainair, Magdalena, and Mt Taylor cover more than 1.6 million acres in New Mexico with elevations range up to 11,301 ft. The Cibola also has four wilderness areas: Sandia Mountain, Manzano Mountain, Withington and Apache Kid and administers four National Grasslands: Black Kettle, McClellan Creek, Kiowa and Rita Blanca covering 263,261 acres in northeastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma and northern Texas.

Located in: New Mexico

Clearwater National Forest

From the dry, rugged canyons of the Salmon River to the moist cedar forests of the Selway drainage to the rolling uplands of the Palouse, the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests offers something for everyone. This vast, diverse area is managed to provide a variety of goods and services including breathtaking scenery, wilderness, wildlife, fisheries, timber harvest, livestock grazing, mining, pristine water quality and a wide array of recreation opportunities. The Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests is best known for its wild character. Nearly half of the forest is designated Wilderness. They also sport three rivers popular with thrill-seeking floaters—the Selway, the Lochsa and the Salmon.

Located in: Idaho

Cleveland National Forest

Cleveland National Forest encompasses 460,000 acres, mostly of chaparral, with a few riparian areas. A warm dry mediterranean climate prevails over the forest.

Located in: California

Coconino National Forest

One of the most diverse National Forests in the country with changing landscapes and activities around every corner. Explore mountains and canyons, fish in small lakes, and wade in lazy creeks and streams. Bring your camera and don't forget your swim suit, hiking shoes, and fishing pole... Come and see!

Located in: Arizona

Colville National Forest

Presently, the Colville National Forest has 1.5 million acres in north eastern Washington and includes the Kettle River, Selkirk mountain ranges, and the upper reaches of the Columbia River. The forest has four ranger stations and a supervisor's office that govern the forest's five districts: Three Rivers Ranger Station in Kettle Falls, Republic Ranger Station in Republic, Tonasket Ranger Station in Tonasket, Newport-Sullivan Lake's Station in Newport, and Newport-Sullivan Lake's Station in Metaline Falls.

Located in: Washington

Coronado National Forest

The Coronado National Forest spans sixteen scattered mountain ranges or "sky islands" rising dramatically from the desert floor, supporting plant communities as biologically diverse as those encountered on a trip from Mexico to Canada.

Located in: Arizona

Croatan National Forest

Welcome to the Croatan National Forest, one of four National Forests in North Carolina and the only true coastal forest in the East. The Croatan National Forest's 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps called pocosins. Bordered on three sides by tidal rivers and the Bogue Sound, the forest is defined by water.

All this water provides a variety of recreation and diversity of wildlife- from deer, black bears and turkeys to wading birds, ospreys and alligators. Canoeing and fishing are popular on blackwater creeks and saltwater marshes. The Croatan is also home to the carnivorous Venus fly-trap, sunder and pitcherplant.

The Croatan National Forest has one Ranger District, the Croatan Ranger District. Please contact the District for more information.

Located in: North Carolina

Delta National Forest

Seen from the air, the Delta National Forest glimmers like a great, green jewel surrounded by lazy rivers and spreading agricultural fields. Delta is a large, contiguous block of bottomland hardwood forest, seasonally flooded timber, and small sloughs draining into the Big and Little Sunflower Rivers in the Yazoo Basin of the Mississippi River. It is the only bottomland hardwood ecosystem in the National Forest System.

The Delta National Forest is an important partner in the Lower Mississippi Valley Joint Venture, one of the emphasis areas of the North American Waterfowl Management Plan, providing important habitat to wintering, migrating, and resident birds.

The Delta National Forest contains over 60,000 acres of bottomland hardwoods and associated wetlands. On an annual basis the Forest manages about 10,000 acres of forested wetland habitat for primarily for wintering waterfowl; maintains a recreation program with 57 campsites, 2 recreation areas and over 45 miles of ATV or multiple use trails; and harvests over 3 million board feet of timber.

Located in: Mississippi

Deschutes National Forest

The Deschutes National Forest encompasses nearly 1.6 million acres, offering year-around recreation opportunities.

Located in: Oregon

Eldorado National Forest

Thousands of visitors are drawn each year to the Eldorado National Forest’s rivers, lakes, and streams alive with fish; mountains and meadows for alpine and nordic skiing; campsites and picnic areas in alpine backcountry and dense forests. Four hundred miles of hiking trails pass through all kinds of terrain, from gentle oak foothills on the west to the 10,000-foot crest of the Sierra Nevada. Two major highways - Highway 50 and Highway 88 - run through the Forest, making it an easy drive from Sacramento and the San Francisco Bay Area.

The Forest Service is committed to nurturing and managing the National Forests in order to ensure the health of the land. As we respectfully use and play in these precious public lands, we are taking part in a shared vision for the future.

Located in: California

Flathead National Forest

In the Rocky Mountains of Northwest Montana, just south of the Canadian border and Glacier National Park, lies the 2.4-million acre Flathead National Forest. With lakes galore, rugged wilderness, wild rivers, over 2,000 miles of trail, campgrounds, ski areas, and year-round beauty, this forest is a premiere natural landscape of the American West.

Located in: Montana

Fremont-Winema National Forest

The Fremont-Winema National Forest occupies the heart of south central Oregon, from the eastern slope of the Cascade Range to the rugged desert landscape of Oregon's Outback.

Located in: Oregon

Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Gifford Pinchot National Forest includes over 1.3 million acres of forest, wildlife habitat, watersheds & mountains, including Mt. Adams & Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.

Located in: Washington

Grand Mesa National Forest

Scenery and an abundance of opportunities for access draw you in and trails lead the way to the rugged canyons, vast mountains, wildlife and history of the GMUG. Over 3,000 miles of trails and routes provide access to areas of rugged beauty and solitude. The topography allows the forest to provide trails—beginner to extreme—all year. The mountains, plateau and mesa that make up the forest will always provide a scenic backdrop and a unique experience.

Located in: Colorado

Green Mountain National Forest

The Green Mountain National Forest is located in southwestern and central Vermont. This Forest is a four season recreation experience. The most popular season is autumn when the mountains are ablaze with color.

The Forest's diverse landscapes range from the rugged, exposed heights of the Green Mountains to the quiet, secluded hollows in the Wilderness. The Forest is within a day’s drive of 70 million people.

Today, the nearly 400,000-acre Green Mountain National Forest contains more than 2000 archaeological and historic sites spanning the history of Vermont. Of interest are Native American sites, the remains of colonial-era subsistence farmsteads, and evidence of the technologies of the industrial period. Other sites include the roads, structures and facilities built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's.

Located in: Vermont

Gunnison National Forest

It shares the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness with the White River and San Isabel National Forests, and the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness Area with the San Isabel National Forest.

The forest was created by Theodore Roosevelt on June 13, 1905 as the Cochetopa Forest Reserve, and named after explorer John W. Gunnison. Today it is administered jointly with the Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre National Forests from offices in Delta. There are local ranger district offices located in Gunnison and Paonia.

Located in: Colorado

Hiawatha National Forest

Located between three of the Great Lakes, within the central and eastern portion of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, lies the Hiawatha National Forest. Rolling hills forested with northern hardwoods, white pine and hemlock, flatland covered by red pine, jack pine and aspen, and large open and tree covered wetlands form the 879,000 acres of the Hiawatha National Forest.

Located in: Michigan

Homochitto National Forest

You will find nature at its finest throughout the Homochitto National Forest. Spend hours hiking along the many creeks and trails that thread this enchanting woodland. The Clear Springs Recreational Area consists of a man-made lake, campground, picnic grounds, swim area, and two hiking trails. The longer of the two trails in the Recreation Area, Clear Springs Trail, is developing a reputation as one of the top three mountain-bike trails in Mississippi. Most campsites are secluded and either overlook the lake or are within an easy walk of the lake. Two CCC constructed pavilions on either side of the lake provide a comfortable place to enjoy the surrounding beauty and watch the wildlife. With a nice assortment of car, tent, recreational vehicle (RV), and motorhome-friendly camping, Clear Springs offers a diverse collection of activities that will keep all entertained, perfect for a family camping vacation.

Located in: Mississippi

Humboldt–Toiyabe National Forest

The Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest’s spectacular 6.3 million acres make it the largest National Forest in the lower 48 states. The Forest does not resemble most other National Forests in that it has numerous fairly large but non-contiguous sections scattered across most of the state of Nevada and a portion of eastern California. Forest offices are located in Austin, Carson City, Elko, Ely, Las Vegas, Sparks, Tonopah, Wells, and Winnemucca in Nevada and Bridgeport in California.

Located in: Nevada, California

Inyo National Forest

With over two million acres, the Inyo National Forest is home to many natural wonders, including Mt. Whitney, Mono Lake, Mammoth Lakes Basin, and the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, as well as seven Congressionally-designated Wilderness areas.

Located in California's beautiful Eastern Sierra, the Inyo National Forest offers clean air, crystal blue skies, mountain lakes and streams, challenging trails, high mountain peaks, and beautiful views.

The name "Inyo" comes from a Native American word meaning "dwelling place of the great spirit." It was used by local Native Americans to describe the local mountains, now known as the White/Inyo Range, to early settlers of the area.

The Inyo National Forest is divided into the North and South zone, with two Ranger Districts in each. This link will take you to a description of each location.

The seven Wilderness areas span over 650,000 acres of land. The John Muir Wilderness encompasses a 100-mile stretch of typical Sierra Nevada peaks and valleys, including the tallest peak in the lower 48 states, Mount Whitney (14,496 feet). It is one of the most heavily visited wildernesses in the nation.

Located in: California

Kootenai National Forest

The Kootenai National Forest is located in the extreme northwest corner of Montana, bordered on the north by Canada and the west by Idaho. Ranges of high, craggy peaks mark the Forest with 8,738 feet. Snowshoe peak in the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness reaching the highest point. The Whitefish Range, Purcell Mountains, Bitterroot Range, Salish Mountains and Cabinet Mountains are all part of the rugged terrain radiating from the river valleys. In the north-central part of the Forest, the land is more open, with gently rolling hills and plains lying in the shadows of the Whitefish Range. Alpine meadows, streams and lakes dot the backcountry. The Forest is dominated by two major rivers, the Kootenai and Clark Fork, along with several smaller rivers and their tributaries. The wildlife and bird life are abundant. There are 191 species of birds that have been recorded. Elk, whitetail and mule deer, mountain goats and bighorn sheep, moose, black bear, mountain lion and grizzly bear roam the forest. Also to be found are coyote, weasel, mink, beaver, otter, squirrel, bobcat, lynx and other smaller mammals. The Kootenai is heavily forested with a large selection of native trees. Hundreds of plant species have been identified in the Forest ranging from cactus to fairy slipper orchids. Wildflowers abound including favorites such as columbine, violets, phlox and Indian paintbrush.

Located in: Montana

Lassen National Forest

The Lassen National Forest lies at the heart of one of the most fascinating areas of California, called the Crossroads. Here the granite of the Sierra Nevada, the lava of the Cascades and the Modoc Plateau, and the sagebrush of the Great Basin meet and blend.

Within the Lassen National Forest you can explore a lava tube or the land of Ishi, the last survivor of the Yahi Yana Native American tribe. Watch wildlife as pronghorn antelope glide across sage flats or osprey snatch fish from lake waters. Drive four-wheel trails into high granite country appointed with sapphire lakes or discover spring wildflowers on foot.

The Lassen National Forest offers a wide array of recreational opportunities and adventures. Fishing, hunting, camping, hiking, bicycling, boating, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and exploring and learning about nature are among the many popular pastimes.

Lassen National Forest offers a number of recreation facilities designed with accessibility in mind for persons with disabilities. Accessible fishing piers, paved trails, specially designed campsites, and accessible picnic tables are all available.

Located in: California

Lolo National Forest

Located west of the continental divide, the Lolo National Forest is influenced by both continental and maritime climates, which provide for a wide range of environmental gradients producing a forest of high diversity.

The diverse ecosystems of the Lolo are home for 17 conifer and 5 hardwood tree species, more than 300 bird species, at least 20 fish species, more than 60 mammal species and an estimated 1,500 plant species, including 250 non-native plant species. Within the Lolo NF, are record-sized trees, the Montana Champion ponderosa pine located in the Fish Creek drainage and a national co-champion western larch near Seeley Lake.

Elevation ranges from less than 2,400 ft. on the Clark Fork River below Thompson Falls to many peaks higher than 7,000 ft. and topping out at over 9,000 ft. at Lolo Peak near the town of Lolo and Ptarmigan Point near Seeley Lake. The highest point is Scapegoat Mountain within the Scapegoat Wilderness.

Water is plentiful within the Lolo, producing more than 100 named lakes and nearly 1,000 named streams including five major rivers.

Located in: Montana

Los Padres National Forest

Located in the beautiful coastal mountains of central California, lies the Los Padres National Forest encompassing nearly two million acres. Stretching almost 220 miles from the Carmel Valley area to the western edge of Los Angeles County, the forest provides the scenic backdrop for many communities including Big Sur, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ojai. While many of the campgrounds and picnic areas are easily reached by vehicle, much of the forest is remote and unroaded, with excellent opportunities for primitive backcountry recreation.

Located in: California

Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests

The Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests extend from north central Colorado to central Wyoming.

These forests encompass portions of many mountain ranges including the Gore Range, Flat Tops, Parks Range, Medicine Bow Mountains, Sierra Madre, and Laramie Range.

The Forests provide year-round recreation opportunities for thousands of people. They also provide wildlife habitat, natural resources, timber, forage for livestock, and are a vital source of water for irrigation, domestic use, and industry.

The topography varies greatly within the Forests due to the large geographic area encompassed. Elevations range from 5,500 feet to 12,940 feet. The climate of the Forests ranges from semi-arid at low elevations to cold and humid in the high country. Frost may occur at any time, and visitors to the higher elevations should be prepared for harsh weather, including snow and high winds, even during the summer months.

The Thunder Basin National Grassland is located in northeastern Wyoming in the Powder River Basin between the Big Horn Mountains and the Black Hills. The Grassland ranges in elevation from 3,600 feet to 5,200 feet and the climate is semi-arid. The Grassland provides unique opportunities for recreation, including hiking, sightseeing, hunting, and fishing. There are no developed campgrounds; however, camping is allowed.

The Grassland abounds with wildlife year-round, provides forage for livestock, and is underlain with vast mineral resources. Land patterns are very complex because of the intermingled federal, state, and private lands. The Douglas Ranger District administers the Grassland.

Located in: Wyoming

Mount Baker–Snoqualmie National Forest

The Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in Washington State extends more than 140 miles along the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains from the Canadian border to the northern boundary of Mt. Rainier National Park.

The Forest covers portions of Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, King, and Pierce Counties. Together, with the other central Puget Sound counties, 62% (3.63 million people) of the State's population lives within a 70-mile drive of the Forest. Another 1.5 million in the Vancouver, British Columbia metro area are also within easy reach of the northern part of the Forest.

The large population factor, coupled with easy road access, makes the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest one of the most visited National Forests in the country.

Located in: Washington

Mount Hood National Forest

Mount Hood National Forest, mountainous, heavily forested region in northwestern Oregon, U.S. The forest starts about 20 miles (32 km) east of Portland and extends southward along the Cascade Range from the Columbia River for more than 60 miles (100 km). It covers some 1,667 square miles (4,318 square km) of scenic mountains, lakes, and streams.

A large forest reserve was created in the Cascade Range in 1893, and a portion of that, called Oregon National Forest, was carved out of it in 1908. The name was changed to Mount Hood National Forest in 1924. The forest provides timber, water, forage, wildlife habitats, and recreation. It is drained by the Columbia, Sandy, Clackamas, Hood, and White rivers and their tributaries. Douglas fir is the dominant tree species. Mount Hood 11,239 feet near the center of the forest, is Oregon’s highest point.

Human action has triggered a vast cascade of environmental problems that now threaten the continued ability of both natural and human systems to flourish. Solving the critical environmental problems of global warming, water scarcity, pollution, and biodiversity loss are perhaps the greatest challenges of the 21st century. Will we rise to meet them?

Multnomah Falls at the Cascade River Gorge, northwestern Oregon, U.S.

Features of the national forest include Mount Hood Wilderness Area and seven smaller wilderness areas, Timberline Lodge (built 1937 on Mount Hood), Multnomah Falls (single drop of 620 feet; overall drop of 850 feet , Austin and Bagby hot springs, Timothy Lake, portions of the Oregon Trail, and Eagle Creek Trail, leading through a region of waterfalls. Hiking, mountain climbing, and skiing are three of the many activities available to visitors. Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail traverses the forest from north to south. The Warm Springs reservation of the Paiute, Wasco, and Warm Springs Indians adjoins the forest on the southeast, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area runs along its northern border. Headquarters for the national forest are at Sandy.

Located in: Oregon

Nantahala National Forest

The Nantahala National Forest anchors the far southwestern corner of North Carolina with over 528,000 acres of protected forest and high mountain wilderness. Within the National Forest, the Nantahala River flows through a gorge so lush that it only gets direct sunlight at mid-day. Nantahala is Cherokee for “land of the noonday sun.”

Adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Nantahala National Forest is the largest of the four National Forests in North Carolina. Within its boundaries are three designated Wilderness Areas and two Wild and Scenic Rivers.

Much of the Nantahala National Forest can be enjoyed from the highway. Both the Waterfall Byway and the Cherohala Skyway wind through its hardwood forests, across mountain ridges, and alongside river gorges.

The Nantahala River provides excellent rafting, canoeing, and kayaking and is one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the country. Three picturesque reservoirs are nestled among the mountains in the Nantahala National Forest, offering boating, water-skiing, fishing, swimming, and camping.

Hikers can enjoy miles of developed trails, including the Appalachian Trail and the Bartram Trail, as well as backpacking in the wilderness. Horseback riding and mountain biking are also popular.

Located in: North Carolina

Ocala National Forest

Encompassing more than 600 square miles in North Central Florida, Ocala National Forest is bursting with adventure.

Hike the Florida Trail, camp in the deep woods, spend a lazy day at a cool, bubbling spring, paddle a spring run, a lake or a river. There are more than 600 springs, lakes and ponds in this forest.

Even if you are just out for a Sunday drive, Ocala National Forest will satisfy the urge to explore new destinations. Ramble forest roads, stop anywhere and take a hike.

From vast Florida sand pine flatlands and cypress-studded wetland prairies to densely wooded oak hammocks and colorful palm-shaded subtropical oases, the variety of eco-systems to explore is mind-blowing.

There are things to do every day of the year in Ocala National Forest.

Located in: Florida

Osceola National Forest

Nearly two hundred thousand acres of the original Florida are waiting to be explored in the Osceola National Forest. These forested woodlands and swamps provide many opportunities for a wide range of visitor experiences such as camping, hiking, swimming, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing and many more. Some recreational activities require a pass or permit.

This "flatwoods" forest is a mosaic of low pine ridges separated by cypress and bay swamps. Visitors enjoy quiet, peaceful woodlands named in honor of the famous Seminole Indian warrior, Osceola.

Created by Presidential proclamation July 10, 1931, this new "forest" had been cutover and heavily burned. A management plan was developed that focused on establishing new growth through reforestation. Fire controls were implemented to ensure the survival of the young trees. During the 1940's a new concept, prescribed burning, was developed, and managed fires began to be used to reduce the fuels and lessen the threat of wildfire. In the 1960's, management in the USDA Forest Service national forests was expanded from managing primarily for timber production to include managing for range, water, recreation, and wildlife, with an emphasis on the "multiple use" of forest resources. Wise stewardship has left the Osceola National Forest with an abundance of natural and cultural resources. Today the forest is managed for multiple uses on an ecological basis with the mission of "Caring for the Land and Serving People."

Located in: Florida

Payette National Forest

The Payette National Forest spans 2.3 million acres of some of west-central Idaho's most beautiful and diverse country. In one day you can travel from hot desert grasslands through cool conifer forests to snow-capped peaks.

The Payette National Forest offers the visitor over 2.3 million acres to enjoy. Everything from the deep recesses of Hell's Canyon to peaks reaching elevations of almost 9,500 feet - the ecology of the Payette is fascinating.

Dry desert grasslands compliment heavily forested acres. Gateways to the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness lead the visitor to experience the solitude of seldom traveled trails.

Come visit the Payette National Forest spring, summer, autumn, or winter as a wide range of recreational activities abound during any of the four seasons: hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, skiing, snowmobiling. You can find a spot on the forest to indulge your recreational interest.

The Payette's five Ranger Districts offer a variety of camping opportunities. Deep, low-elevation canyons and high peaks can keep the more adventurous camping almost year round. Campground information is divided by ranger district. The Payette also hasnumerous trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and motorized use.

Located in: Idaho

Plumas National Forest

Situated in the Sierra Nevada, just south of the Cascade Range, the Plumas National Forest is versatile in its land features and enhanced by a pleasant climate.

Outdoor enthusiasts are attracted year round to the Plumas National Forest's many streams and lakes, beautiful deep canyons, rich mountain valleys, meadows, and lofty peaks.

The Middle Fork of the Feather River was one of the first nationally-designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. Any part of the river in this canyon may be rugged and difficult to access. In the wild zone, precipitous cliffs, waterfalls, and huge boulders discourage most people trying to float or hike. While the scenic zones are less rugged, they still require great preparation and caution.

The Feather River Scenic Byway is a treasure awaiting discovery. This 130-mile route features incomparable natural beauty and diversity in terrain, landscape, and wildlife habitat. The canyon is an awesome gorge carved by the river through granite, into conifer trees, and high mountain meadows.

Feather Falls National Recreation Trail and Campground is a wonderful destination for camping, hiking, and enjoying the beauty of the Falls.

The Plumas National Forest offers a vast array of recreational activities and close to 300 miles of trails suited for every taste and ability. The Forest offers handy recreation guidesto plan and enjoy your visit.

Camping options range from lakeside campgrounds to remote mountain stream hideouts. Campground elevations vary from a couple thousand feet above the valley floor to more than 7,000 feet in elevation. Particular caution with weather should be taken for sites above 4,000 feet in elevation.

Located in: California

San Isabel National Forest

The Pike and San Isabel National Forests, Cimarron and Comanche National Grasslands (PSICC) areas are perhaps the most diverse of all National Forests. The Cimarron is located in Kansas and the others are in Colorado.

These diverse Forests and Grasslands range from the short grass prairies of the eastern grasslands to the alpine tundra of the northern districts, and all of the variety in between.

This Forest complex celebrates a wealth of significant experiences from historic cabin rentals to the birthplace of developed recreation on the San Carlos Ranger District. The Comanche Ranger District lays claim to the internationally-known dinosaur trackway at Pickewire Canyon. And on the South Platte Ranger District, you'll find the historic Devil's Head Lookout Tower.

There are six Ranger Districts: Leadville, Pikes Peak, Salida , San Carlos, South Park, South Platte. Check out the site for the District you plan to visit for more information.

There are nine Wilderness Areas, numerous Scenic Byways and a full spectrum nonrecreational and camping opportunities. There are Off-Highway Vehicle trails on the Pike and San Isabel National Forests and the Cimarron National Grassland.

The Comanche and Cimarron Grasslands provide access to some remote backcountry that promises interesting geological, historical and cultural sites. Reminders of ancient life that existed in the area, both reptilian and Homo sapiens, pervade the grassland. Solitude is guaranteed in most areas of the grasslands.

Located in: Colorado

San Juan National Forest

The San Juan National Forest covers more than 1.8 million acres in Southwest Colorado. It’s most noted for its staggering San Juan Mountains, some of the steepest in the state. The views here are spectacular, so all the recreation is first-rate.

Camping or hiking, you’ll have the adventure of a lifetime in the San Juans; it’s an outdoor paradise, with huge alpine peaks and endless forests. With routes like the San Juan Scenic Byway to soak it all in, it’s a delight exploring this stunning part of Colorado.

The San Juan National Forest covers the southern half of the massive and complex San Juan Mountains. There are numerous peaks, rivers, lakes, and remote stretches in the forest, including the Weminuche Wilderness, the largest in the state. Parts of the forest are accessible from Cortez, Durango, Pagosa Springs, Silverton, Telluride, and Ouray.

Located in: Colorado

Six Rivers National Forest

Six Rivers National Forest lies just south of the Oregon border in northern California, stretches southward for about 140 miles, and is best known for its lush forests and excellent recreation.

Six Rivers National Forest in northern California is part of a vast network of mountainous wildlands made up of several state and national forests and parks. At more than a million acres, the National Forest encompasses four Wilderness areas and offers plenty ofoutdoor activities. You can even rent an old fire lookout tower and stay for up to four days with panoramic mountain views!

Water gives this forest its identity. Some areas averages up to 200 inches of rain per year, and the forest's 1,500 miles of permanent streams supply about nine percent of California's total runoff. As well, the six rivers that give this forest its name - the Smith, Klamath, Trinity, Mad, Van Duzen, and Eel Rivers - offer incredible scenery and recreational opportunities.

Forest managers are constantly working to steward the forest, focusing on invasive species issues and improving the local economy.

Located in: California

Stanislaus National Forest

Located in central California, lies the Stanislaus National Forest. You can fish in over 800 miles of rivers and streams, enjoy a comfortable cabin, stay in a campground, or hike into the backcountry seeking pristine solitude. You can swim near a sandy beach or wade into cold clear streams cooling your feet while lost in the beauty of nature, raft the exciting and breath-taking Tuolumne River, or canoe one of the many gorgeous lakes. You can ride a horse, a mountain bike or a snowmobile. Clearly the choice is yours in the special places of the Stanislaus National Forest.

Located in: California

Tongass National Forest

The Tongass is the nation’s largest national forest and covers most of Southeast Alaska, surrounding the famous Inside Passage and offers unique chances to view eagles, bears, spawning salmon, and the breath-taking vistas of “wild” Alaska. Hike or take a sled-dog ride on a glacier, stroll along boardwalk trails, learn about fisheries management, fish in streams or the ocean, or relax at a remote cabin. If spying some truly wild wildlife is on your bucket list, visit the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Steep Creek Bear Viewing area in Juneau, Anan Wildlife Observatory in Wrangell, Fish Creek Bear Viewing Area in Hyder, or Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area on Admiralty Island, or immerse yourself in native culture at the stunning Southeast Alaska Discovery Center, located just steps away from the cruise ship docks in downtown Ketchikan.

Located in: Alaska

White River National Forest

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, the 2.3 million acre White River National Forest is one of the largest and most scenic sections of the National Forest System.

Home to world-renowned ski resorts and the birthplace of designated Wilderness Areas, the White River National Forest has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

With 10 peaks over 14,000 feet, and eight Wilderness Areas encompassing more than 750,000 acres, the Forest is world-reknowned for its scenery.

There are eight Wilderness areas in Colorado which are managed by the White River National Forest: Collegiate Peaks, Eagles Nest, Flat Tops, Holy Cross, Hunter-Frying Pan, Ptarmigan Peak, Maroon Bells-Snowmass, and Raggeds.

With eight "fourteeners" (peaks exceeding 14,000 feet in elevation), Collegiate Peaks Wilderness probably possesses the highest average elevation of any Wilderness in the Lower 48.

Hundreds of miles of trails are available to to hikers, equestrians, and mountain bikers. Off-Highway Vehicle users will find many opportunities for off-road enjoyment in the White River National Forest.

The Forest has many developed facilities including family and group campgrounds and picnic areas.

There are seven Ranger Districts: Aspen/Sopris, Blanco, Dillon, Eagle/Holy Cross, and Rifle. Each Ranger District offers an extensive listing of recreation activities within its District, so make sure you visit the links above to learn more!

Located in: Colorado

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