Virginia State Forest Use Permit

Since July 1, 2009, a State Forest Use Permit is required for those persons aged 16 or older to practice the following activities on a state forest:

  • ride horses
  • ride mountain bikes
  • hunt
  • fish
  • trap

A valid Virginia hunting license or fishing license in addition to a State Forest Permit ($16 per year) are required for hunting, trapping or fishing on the forest.

A State Forest Use Permit is not required for forest visitors who practice the following activities on a state forest:

  • walking
  • hiking
  • boating

Permits can be purchased two ways

  • Go to any location where you purchase a hunting license. Ask the clerk for the “State Forest Permit” to be added to your license.
  • Use your credit card and purchase a permit online from the Virginia Department Of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) website. After signing in, find “Special Licenses” and then “State Forest Use Permit” $16.

Last modified: Thursday, 09-Feb-2012 10:56:56 EST

Walking, Hiking and Boating
A State Forest Use Permit is not required for forest visitors who walk, hike or boat on a state forest.

Riding Bicycles and Riding Horses
On forests where these activities are allowed, a valid State Forest Use Permit is required for persons aged 16 years-old or older.

Hunting and Fishing
On forests where these activities are allowed, a valid State Forest Use Permit and valid hunting or fishing license are required for persons aged 16 years-old or older in accordance with state regulations.

State Forest Use Permits
Permits cost $16 USD and are valid for one year from date of purchase. Permits can be purchased two ways:

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Native Trees of Virginia
The most common native tree species found in Virginia's forests are described in this handsome 120-page book.The most common native tree species found in Virginia's forests are described with images of leaves, twigs, flowers and/or fruit to aid in identification.

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