Spring has sprung in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest

Spring has sprung in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest! That means recreation season is officially here. Trails, campsites, and day-use areas are open across all 4 ranger districts in the Forest.

This year, visitors are encouraged to go online to Rec.gov or download the Recreation.gov mobile app, where they can peruse trails and activities and make reservations for campsites and day-use areas. The app also allows visitors to easily purchase day or annual passes for the Forest and pay for parking right from their phones.

“The website and app provide up-to-date information about recreation adventures in your backyard and across the nation,” said Forest Recreation Program Manager Karen Larsen. “They’re a great tool to use when planning your visit and can lessen the need to carry cash while traveling.”

Larsen advises visitors should download the app in advance of their trip, because mobile connectivity is not reliable across the Forest. Campsite reservations are not yet available for the Oconee Ranger District.

Ensure a smooth visit by purchasing a recreation pass in advance. The Forest offers multiple options for whatever your needs may be. Purchase a day pass to a specific site, an annual pass for the entire Forest, or a nation-wide recreation pass to access even more public lands. Learn more about recreation pass options and make purchases online at Recreation.gov.

No matter how they enjoy the outdoors, visitors are encouraged to educate themselves on safe recreation in the Forest. Remember to follow best safety practices, observe all posted rules, and check for alerts and closures before visiting.

Safety Officer Matt Rushton reminds visitors to match their activity with their ability when planning an outing.

“We offer a spectrum from 100% accessible, paved areas, to arduous hikes in the wilderness,” Rushton said. “Tailor your activity based on your experience and skill level.”

All Forest visitors should be sure to check weather forecasts in advance, pack extra food and water, and let someone know when to expect them home. Rushton also recommends becoming familiar with potential risk factors like yellow jackets and poison ivy.

“Situational awareness is key, so learn more about local hazards and ensure that you are prepared,” Rushton said. “It’s those little things that ultimately make us have a safe and fun experience.”

Woodsy Owl would like to remind visitors to the Forest to Leave No Trace along their journey. Some advice from our wise owl friend:

Looking for firewood? Gather fallen sticks and logs from the ground, but do not cut down standing trees or snags without a permit. These are important habitat features for our Forest friends!

Pack it in, pack it out – take all your trash with you on your way out of the Forest. Or as I like to say, “Give a hoot, don’t pollute!”

When visiting cultural heritage sites, tread lightly and do not touch or remove any artifacts you may find.

Following these tips, and all other posted guidelines, will help us keep the Forest safe and healthy for generations to come. Visit our website to learn more about outdoor ethics.

Along with spring comes fire season. As Smokey Bear likes to say, only you can prevent wildfires! Ensure that campfires are extinguished and cold before leaving them and remember that all fireworks are prohibited in the Forest.

“It’s a fact that the majority of our wildfires are human-caused,” said Forest Fire Management Officer Mike Davis. “We ask our Forest visitors to practice fire safety and realize that it is critical to extinguish campfires upon departing an area.”

This time of year, the Forest conducts prescribed burns which support conservation efforts and help prevent wildfires. Follow along online and subscribe to #BurnAlerts to keep up with burn-related closures. Learn more about good fire on our website.

“There’s an adventure to be found for everyone here on your beautiful National Forest lands,” Larsen said. “Whether you’re a first-timer or an old friend, we hope you have a safe and enjoyable visit!”