Geneva State Forest

Geneva State Forest (GSF) is Alabama’s largest state forest. Managed by the Alabama Forestry Commission encompassing 7,120 acres of predominately longleaf pine Geneva State Forest provides the state of Alabama with one of the most valuable natural resources, timber. Fishing is available in the 100-acre lake. Primitive roads throughout the forest provide a scenic view for trail rides. The longleaf forests provide ample habitat for viewing many native wildlife species including: deer, turkey, quail, rabbit, fox, bobcat, squirrel, and non-game species as well. The Alabama Hiking Trail Society has established and maintains a hiking trail around the lake. Each of these recreational activities requires a daily permit which can be obtained at Geneva State Forest Lake.

Controlled burning is an effective forest management tool used at Geneva State Forest, so check with staff about trail opportunities in advance. Annually, one-third of the work units are burned in a controlled manner. Controlled fire provides necessary conditions for natural regeneration of longleaf pine; it improves forage for wildlife, and provides many other benefits to other species of the longleaf pine ecosystem.

The primary objective of GSF is timber and secondary are wildlife and recreation. Management of the forest requires sound guidance. Every five years a detailed plan is prepared to utilize while conserving the native forest ecosystem at Geneva State Forest. The plan subdivides the forestland into workable units. Planned tasks are developed to enhance primary and secondary objectives. Afterwards, these tasks are completed by AFC personnel.

In a cooperative agreement with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources the Geneva State Forest Wildlife Management Area provides large and small game hunting to the public. All hunting will be in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Geneva State Forest Wildlife Management Area.