Safety

Preparation and safety are of utmost importance while recreating in the national forest.  Please observe safety alerts and notices before your excursion to the forest.  Simply knowing the current conditions, closures and alerts prepares you for a pleasurable outdoor visit, free from any surprise that could deter your fun!

Controlled Burns Alerts

During the winter through spring seasons, we conduct prescribed (controlled) burns throughout the national forests. The controlled burns are used to improve natural plant and animal communities and reduce the accumulation of fuels, which may feed catastrophic wildfires. Controlled burn maps are located under the "Know Before You Go" page.

Wildfire Alerts and Closures

The Know Before You Go report gives visitors information on trail, road and site closures due to emergencies or wildfires in the area.  Being informed will prepare you for any altered travel plans, any prohibited areas or methods of travel, and warnings about any closures.

Rules and Closure Orders

A vital part of planning a trip to our Alabama’s national forests is to know the Rules for Forest Visitors (pdf).  In order to ensure the health and safety of forest visitors now and in the future, we ask you to follow the guidelines established to protect the forest and the natural environment. Closure orders are posted on the website, posted on bulletin boards or located in the district or supervisor’s office.

Travel Management Tips

Forest officers are empowered to enforce federal regulations and rules. Please take time to read and understand closure orders and motorized vehicle maps. Our travel management tips highlight designated roads and trails for motorized vehicles. Travel management tips answer questions about designated roads and trails open to motorized vehicles. Feel free to email us additional questions.

Our forests are natural treasures, please follow leave no trace ethics that encourage planning ahead, staying on the marked trails, placing trash in receptacles, picking up pet waste and leaving the recreational area as you found it. Additional outdoor ethics are to be careful with fire, stay away from wild animals, maintain control of your pet and be kind while sharing the trail with other visitors.

Maps

Need a Mobile Map? Get the App! Keyword - National Forests in Alabama. Category - Parks, Forests and Grasslands

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Weather Conditions

Please be aware that even though a trip to the forest is appealing and a great source of outdoor fun, weather conditions are continually changing.   Check the forecasts on the links listed below before planning your outdoor activities.

National Forests in Alabama - Supervisor's Office in Montgomery, AL
Bankhead National Forest - Bankhead RD in Double Springs, AL
Conecuh National Forest - Conecuh RD in Andalusia, AL
Talladega National Forest - Oakmulgee RD in Brent, AL
Talladega National Forest - Shoal Creek RD in Heflin, AL
Talladega National Forest - Talladega RD in Talladega, AL
Tuskegee National Forest - Tuskegee RD in Tuskegee, AL

Check Alabama Roads Before You Travel

You may view the Alabama road closures through the following Department of Transportation links.

ALDOT Road Conditions

Alerts


View More Alerts

Closures


Public Notices

Bankhead National Forest Public Notification

The increasing popularity of Caney Creek Falls has resulted in overcrowding and parking access challenges.