In 1891, Shoshone National Forest was established as part of the Yellowstone Timberland Reserve, making it America’s first national forest. Almost two decades later, in 1905, President Theodore Roosevelt created the U.S. Forest Service to oversee the national forests and grasslands.
Today, there are 154 national forests and 20 national grasslands.
I grew up in Jefferson National Forest in Southwest Virginia. My childhood was spent hiking the Appalachian Trail to Mount Rogers, the highest point in Virginia, and driving the winding gravel road to White Top Mountain’s summit, the highest place you can drive in the state.
Some of my earliest camping adventures were in national forest campgrounds at Raccoon Branch and Backbone Rock. I’ve always greatly appreciated national forests more than national parks because of their ease of access, recreation opportunities, and scenic drives.
While so many travel writers, road trippers, and outdoor enthusiasts focus on adventures in the national parks, I invest a good portion of my time exploring the underrated national forests.
National Forests and Grasslands
Learn more about America’s National Forests and things to do. Visit the Destinations page to search for national forests by region or state.
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Road Trip Planning Resources
Travel Articles
Find inspiration for your next national park adventure with one of these travel articles.
These essential guides include information about planning national park trips.
Embark on a road trip through the national parks with one of these itineraries. Visit the Road Trips page to find more road trip itineraries, how-to guides, and resources.
Learn about special topics in the national parks and how to visit them based on themes. Visit the Trip Ideas page to see more ideas for your next vacation.