Search
Search
« Back to Previous

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest - Wildlife

Click image for larger view
Details 
Map 
Amenities 
Yelp 

Located near Roanoke, VA, George Washington and Jefferson National Forest offers unparalleled wildlife viewing and birding opportunities. Spanning over a million acres, this diverse wilderness boasts prime habitats for observing Virginia's native fauna and flora.

Birdwatchers flock to the forest to spot a myriad of avian species, from colorful warblers to majestic raptors. With designated trails and viewing areas, both novice and experienced birders can enjoy optimal vantage points for observing and photographing these winged wonders.

Beyond birds, the forest is home to a variety of mammals, including white-tailed deer, black bear, and elusive bobcats. Patient observers may also catch sight of smaller creatures like Eastern cottontail rabbits and Eastern gray squirrels.

Whether strolling wooded trails or quietly observing from scenic overlooks, the forest's diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity make it an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts. So grab your binoculars and camera, and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the natural wonderland of George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.

  • Map View:
Directions
Recreation
Directions
  • Directions: The George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is located north of Roanoke and runs parallel to Interstate 81.
  • Major Access Routes: I-81
Recreation
  • Additional Information: We feature hundreds of hiking trails, ranging from all levels of difficulty. With few exceptions, the forest is open 24 hours a day. Fees are charged for various uses in developed areas such as campgrounds, group picnic facilities and the swimming area.
  • Friday Hours: Open
  • Monday Hours: Open
  • RV Parking:
  • Saturday Hours: Open
  • Sports: Hiking, Biking, Swimming, Hunting, Horseback Riding
  • Sunday Hours: Open
  • Thursday Hours: Open
  • Tuesday Hours: Open
  • Wednesday Hours: Open
Driving Distances
  • Atlanta
    430 miles
  • Baltimore
    281 miles
  • Charleston, WV
    180 miles
  • Charlotte
    194 miles
  • Columbia
    284 miles
  • Greensboro
    104 miles
  • Lexington
    356 miles
  • Pittsburgh
    340 miles
  • Raleigh
    167 miles
  • Richmond
    164 miles
  • Virginia Beach
    295 miles
  • Washington, DC
    251 miles
  • View Maps
Sitemap

Want the latest on Virginia’s Blue Ridge? Securely sign up for our FREE e-newsletter:

Map
›
Sitemap
›
Visitor's Guide
›
Newsletter
›
About Us
›
Contact Us
›
Partners
›
Privacy Policy
›
Partner Extranet

Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge 101 Shenandoah Avenue NE Roanoke, VA 24016 (540) 342-6025 (800) 635-5535

Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge is committed to cultivating an atmosphere that welcomes and celebrates the unique backgrounds, abilities, passions, and perspectives of our vibrant community. As our region’s only destination marketing organization, we have a responsibility to showcase the best the Roanoke Region has to offer, and those assets and strengths come in varied forms. We embrace differences in race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, language, visible and invisible disabilities, and all the intersecting identities that make Virginians and visitors alike so unique. We believe our differences make us stronger– and better.