Outdoor Science and Learning

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest offers a wide variety of nature viewing opportunities, cultural sites and interpretive sites.

Cultural Sites/Exhibits

Relive the events of April 1862 at the Confederate Breastworks Interpretive Site through Captain Shepherd Pryor's letters to his wife. 

Interpretive Areas/Exhibits

Visit the Settlers Museum of Southwest Virginia. Relax on the historic family porch among a 67-acre open air museum and learn the story of the people who settled the area.  

Viewing Wildlife

Lucky visitors might see birds and squirrels along a nature trail, a deer or bear in a meadow, or North American Beaver in a river.  Go to this Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources for more information on wildlife viewing.

Viewing Plants

Plant lovers have much to admire on the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. From lush woods and cold mountain streams to unique mountain tops, over 1.8 million acres of Appalachian forests in Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky are yours to explore. One of the most popular times to view plants is during wildflower season which usually starts in March in the lower elevations and May in the higher elevations. Fall is another good time as the oak, hickory, yellow poplar, maple and other deciduous trees turn to their rich autumn hues.

The USDA Plants Database is a great place to find out more about specific plants - you can search by common or scientific name, or by area.

Viewing Scenery

There are many scenic vistas and overlooks that you can drive or hike to. The views are spectacular!

Visitor Centers

There are three visitor centers in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Green Cove Station Visitor Center, Pat Jennings Visitor Center and Whitetop Station Visitor Center. 

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Recreation Opportunities

Cultural Sites/Exhibits (1)

Interpretive Areas/Exhibits (15)

Viewing Plants (4)

Viewing Scenery (26)

Viewing Wildlife (25)

Visitor Centers (5)

Visitor Programs (2)

Showing: 1 - 10 of 45 results

Bealers Ferry Pond Accessible Fishing Site

Site Open

Off the beaten path, but well worth the trip, Bealers’ Ferry Pond is a refreshing outdoor retreat. Appreciate a quality angling experience that allows one to fish for largemouth bass, bluegill, and…

Birch Knob Observation Site

Site Open

Visitors to the Birch Knob Observation Tower enjoy views stretching from Virginia, to Kentucky, West Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. Hikers are challenged by the Pine Mountain Trail that…

Blue Springs Gap Cabin

Site Open

Located high on a mountaintop near Camp, VA, Blue Springs Gap Cabin seems to be on top of the world. There are three cozy bedrooms, a kitchen, a living room and a wrap around porch with an amazing…

Camp Roosevelt Recreation Area

Site Open

Camp Roosevelt Campground is the site of the first Civilian Conservation Corps Camp in the Nation. Follow the path through the CCC camp and view the foundations where the actual buildings once stood.…

Cliff Trail (Forest Trail #429)

Formerly known as “Lovers Leap” Trail, the Cliff Trail is a moderately difficult scenic hike with an exceptional view. Parking is available on the left side of the road at the Hone Quarry Picnic…

Comers Rock Recreation Area

Site Open

Located on top of Iron Mountain at 3800 feet, a small primitive campground and historic picnic area await the true outdoor enthusiast. The log picnic shelter with large stone fireplace was built by…

Confederate Breastworks Interpretive Site

Site Open

A popular scenic viewing area for fall foliage, this winding 0.5 mile interpretive trail meanders along the top of Shenandoah Mountain. Relive the events of April 1862 through the letters of Captain…

Confederate Breastworks Trail (Forest Trail #472)

This trail is a short hike to a popular scenic overlook and site of a Civil War fortification that contains actual breastworks built by the soldiers.Trail Open To:

Discovery Way Accessible Trail

Come explore this .25 mile paved interpretive trail as you enjoy the magic of the surrounding forest. Discover a toothbrush tree, rock with living skin, and leaves in the shape of a mitten! Treasure…

Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area

Site Open

Elizabeth Furnace Recreation Area offers forested trails, campsites and open grassy picnic areas along the tranquil Passage Creek. Enjoy hiking the Pig Iron and Charcoal trail and learn how iron was…