Hiking Organizations

Cherokee Hiking Club
American Lung Association of Georgia
Benton Mackaye Trail Association
Georgia Appalachian Trail Club
Georgia Pinhoti Trail Association
Pine Mountain Trail Association



Miscellaneous Information Permits:   No permits are required to use most trails on the Chattahoochee or Oconee National Forests. Only Coosa Backcountry Trail, which begins at Vogel State Park and meanders onto the National Forest, requires a permit. Get a free permit at the Vogel State Park Visitor Center.

Camping:   Camping is permitted anywhere on the Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests unless posted otherwise. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A fee is charged for camping in developed recreation areas. Dispersed, primitive camping is free. Hikers are encouraged to camp away from trails and at least 100 feet from stream banks to reduce environmental damage.

Vehicles:   The Chattahoochee and Oconee National Forests are closed to off-road vehicle use except in designated areas or on designated trails specifically marked for ORV use. From time to time, ORV trails and roads may be closed to allow recovery from overuse, so check with the district ranger before you travel to these areas.

Horses:   For your safety, horse use is prohibited on the Appalachian Trail and on many hiking trails, including several within the Cohutta Wilderness. Be sure to check with the local Forest Service office before taking horses on any trail. Caution is urged on all trails because narrow clearing widths and steep grades often make horseback riding dangerous.

Fires:   You do not need a permit for a campfire. However, you are legally responsible for any damage caused by your fire. Only dead or down wood may be used to build campfires. Make sure your fire is dead-out before you leave!

Hunting and Fishing:   Hunting and fishing are allowed only under State regulations. Many trails are within wildlife management areas where firearms are prohibited except during hunting season. For licenses, regulations, and season dates, check with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Game and Fish Division, Floyd Towers East, 205 Butler St., S.E., Atlanta, GA 30334. Telephone (404) 656-3522.

Fords:   During periods of wet weather or immediately after a heavy rain. avoid trails with fords such as the Jacks and Conasauga River Trails in the Cohutta Wilderness. Even short rains can raise river levels enough to make fording dangerous.