The Virginia state forest system includes 26 state-managed forests covering a total of . They are managed by the Virginia Department of Forestry. The system was created to manage and maintain forests for wildlife, timber production, recreation, water quality, and aesthetics. The system receives no taxpayer funds, and is self-supported by the sale of forest products. Most Virginia state forests are accessible to the public. Activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, hunting, and fishing are permitted in some state forests; permissible uses vary between individual state forests. Some activities require the purchase of a "State Forest Use Permit" for individuals ages 16 or older. State forests in the Commonwealth of Virginia The following table lists Virginia's 26 state forests . See also List of U.S. National Forests List of Virginia state parks List of Virginia Natural Area Preserves List of Virginia Wildlife Management Areas References External links Virginia Department of Forestry.gov: Virginia State Forests website . Forests of Virginia Protected areas of Virginia Virginia State forests Environment of Virginia