The fourth Saturday of September is designated National Public Lands Day; we will celebrate the public lands that provide spaces for the adventures we love, such as paddling, hiking, and exploring. These lands are the heart of NOC’s mission and essential for outdoor recreation nationwide.
Public lands are the cornerstone of outdoor recreation, encompassing a vast network of protected areas that belong to all of us. From beautiful national parks and scenic rivers to sprawling forests and historic trails, these lands offer a playground for adventure, a sanctuary for wildlife, and a source of inspiration for all. They provide opportunities for hiking, paddling, camping, and countless other activities, fostering a deep connection with nature and promoting the well-being of individuals and communities.
Today, there are approximately 640 million acres of federal public land in the United States.
Beyond National Parks: What Else is Public Land?
You might know national parks are public land, but did you know rivers are too? National rivers, protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, are a critical part of our public lands. They’re preserved for their natural, cultural, and recreational value, ensuring future generations can enjoy them just as we do today. Like parks and forests, national rivers belong to all Americans, offering chances to recreate, learn, and find inspiration. They provide vital habitats, clean water, and showcase our nation’s diverse beauty. Protecting and enjoying these rivers safeguards our natural heritage and ensures everyone can experience their wonder. The Chattooga River, where we operate, is one such treasured Wild and Scenic River.
Check out the Wild and scenic Chattooga: Chattooga River Rafting – SC & GA Whitewater | NOC
The Appalachian Trail: A National Scenic Trail
Stretching 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail, a designated National Scenic Trail, winds through forests and mountains, crossing 14 states, and even passing right through our campus. First proposed in 1921, it wasn’t until 1948 that Army veteran Earl Shaffer made history by completing the first thru-hike in a single season. Today, the AT stands as one of the world’s most celebrated trails, offering hikers a diverse journey through rivers, peaks, and lush forests. As part of the National Trails System, it represents the essence of public lands, providing access to outdoor recreation and safeguarding the natural beauty and resources surrounding the trail for generations to come.
Public Lands by Car or Bike
Public lands aren’t just for hiking and paddling – bikes and cars can help you discover them too! Take the Blue Ridge Parkway, for instance. This 469-mile scenic drive through the Appalachians is known for its stunning mountain views, museums, art centers, and hiking, camping, fishing, and climbing opportunities. It also connects two beloved national parks: Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah.
Blue Ridge Parkway : Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah.
At NOC, we’re committed to protecting these spaces for future generations. Join us in appreciating and giving back to the lands that make our outdoor experiences possible!
Here are five meaningful ways to support National Public Lands Day:
1. Volunteer for a Cleanup: Many public lands host cleanup and restoration projects. Participating in these efforts helps preserve the beauty and accessibility of these natural spaces. Here is our local Volunteer Event
- National Public Lands Day Volunteer Event (nps.gov) – Balsam Mountain Nature Trail in Cherokee, NC.
- If you cannot commit to this weekend, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a list of ways to volunteer throughout the year.
2. Practice Leave No Trace: When visiting public lands, be sure to always follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out your trash, respect wildlife, and stick to designated trails. The first principle is to Plan Ahead and Prepare!
- Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast, and if you’re headed to the river, check the water levels before your trip. Stay updated on changing river conditions. River levels more significant than the indicated levels are unsafe. Check out American Whitewater for any notes, river blockages, etc. Watch the weather closely during your trip. In small creeks and undammed rivers, upstream thunderstorms can cause the river to rise rapidly. American Whitewater is a great resource for river information:
- Be Prepared: Review your gear and review the trip plan. Confirm you have the necessary skills, gear, and equipment for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
3. Donate to Conservation Organizations: Support nonprofit organizations that work year-round to protect and maintain public lands through donations or fundraising efforts. Here are a few of our favorite Public Land Conservancies
- The Chattooga Conservancy’s mission is to protect, promote and restore the natural ecological integrity of the Chattooga River watershed ecosystems; to ensure the viability of native species in harmony with the need for a healthy human environment; and to educate and empower communities to practice good stewardship on public and private lands. Chattooga Conservancy: Home – – Chattooga Conservancy (chattoogariver.org)
- Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC) is the official non-profit friends group for the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, a series of fifteen park units along 48 miles of the Chattahoochee River in Atlanta. Their mission is to build a community of support for the CRNRA and promote stewardship of its natural and cultural resources. Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy – Home (chattahoocheeparks.org)
- Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Park was founded in 1993. Their first project was to fund the reconstruction of the historic Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower in 1995. Photo below. Check out the Friends of the Smokies | Preserve. Protect. Provide.
4. Advocate for Public Lands: Be a Voice for Public Lands: Reach out to your elected officials and support policies that protect and maintain public lands for outdoor recreation, wildlife habitats, and the enjoyment of future generations.
- One crucial example is the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). This act provides full, permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million per year. The LWCF helps improve recreational opportunities, protect watersheds and wildlife, and preserve the benefits of healthy ecosystems for local communities. It also includes the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership program, which focuses on creating more outdoor recreation opportunities in underserved urban areas.
Visit Public Lands Responsibly: Spend time exploring public parks, forests, and rivers while following guidelines, signage, and actions that ensure the sustainability and conservation of these spaces.