Welcome to the National Forests in North Carolina

Explore Your Public Lands

The Pisgah, Nantahala, Uwharrie, and Croatan National Forests. Hike one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. Explore the only coastal national forest in the eastern U.S.

Plan Your Adventure

North Carolina is home to 4 national forests: Croatan, Uwharrie, Pisgah, and Nantahala National Forests. These forests are located in all three regions of North Carolina, providing visitors with unique landscapes. Terrain varies from rugged mountains, to gentle rolling hills, to sandy beaches, with ample recreation opportunities.

  • Camping

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    Remote wilderness, roadside camping, family friendly campgrounds, and more. To reserve campsites and more in North Carolina visit recreation.gov

  • Passes & Permits

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    Passes and permits are needed for a variety of activities, such as accessing some day use areas, collecting firewood, and commercial filming and events.

  • Maps and Publications

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    We offer a variety of map products including paper and digital visitor maps, Motor Vehicle Use Maps, and digital downloads of topographic maps and GIS information.

Features

Nantahala Mountains Project

The Nantahala Mountains Project will improve wildlife habitat, forest health, and diversity across about 1050 acres of mixed hardwood forest west of Franklin, North Carolina.

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2023 Recreation Resource Advisory Committee Outreach Website

2023 Recreation Resource Advisory Committee Outreach Website 

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