3/21/20
(Gainesville)- The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest has announced they are indefinitely closing camping and group recreation sites in response to the spread of coronavirus. Effective Saturday, March 21, this includes picnic pavilions and restrooms – even those at the trailheads.
This includes such well-known areas as Anna Ruby Falls, Lake Winfield Scott, the visitors center at Brasstown Bald and others.
In a press release Saturday, Acting Forest Supervisor Edward Hunter says that health and safety is their number one priority. “We are committed to continuing to support our communities and fulfill our mission as we all work together to minimize the impacts and spread of COVID-19.”
Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest are also closed and all staff is working remotely as much as possible. Customers needing information, permits, and maps are encouraged to visit the website or call the nearest office during regular business hours for assistance.
They are not closing trails for public use, but are asking the public to be responsible with outdoor recreation and to continue social distancing even when outside. They are also discouraging any dangerous activities that increase a chance of injury, such as rock climbing, as search and rescue operations may be limited during this time, as well.
