Embark on a journey through America’s most densely wooded states! From the towering pines of Maine to the lush forests of Washington, discover the perfect destination for nature lovers and tree enthusiasts alike. Here, we’ve ranked the some U.S. states with the most forested land, listing them from least wooded to the most in terms of millions of acres.
10 U.S. States with the Most Forest Land
Forested land in a state fluctuates over time due to factors like urbanization, agriculture, natural disasters, and climate change. These forces can lead to deforestation or alter forest composition, often with lasting consequences. However, conservation and reforestation efforts can help counterbalance these impacts, promoting sustainable forest management and ecosystem protection.
The following list talks about how much forested land 10 of the 50 U.S. states has, and lists them in order from the least amount of forest land to the most.
10. Florida
- Forested: 14.5 million acres
Florida is a haven for tree enthusiasts, with around 50% of its land covered in forests. The state’s diverse ecosystems range from tropical hardwood hammocks to dense pine flatwoods.
Explore the vast Everglades National Park, where you’ll find a unique blend of wetlands and forests, or venture into the enchanting Osceola National Forest, home to longleaf pines and a variety of wildlife. Eighty percent of Florida’s forests are in the northwest part of the panhandle.
9. Pennsylvania
- Forested: 16.6 million acres
Pennsylvania is a treasure trove for nature lovers, boasting dense forests that covers over 50% of the state. The Appalachian Mountains stretch across the region, providing a diverse range of tree species. Hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Pocono Mountains or explore the vast Allegheny National Forest to get a true taste of the Keystone State’s verdant beauty.
8. Washington
- Forested: 21.3 million acres
Washington’s lush, green landscape is also home to an impressive 50% forest cover. The state is renowned for its temperate rainforests, such as those found in Olympic National Park, where ancient trees draped in moss create a magical atmosphere. Mount Rainier National Park is another must-see destination, with its breathtaking subalpine meadows and old-growth forests.
7. Idaho
- Forested: 21.4 million acres
Idaho’s diverse ecosystems are home to a variety of tree species, including majestic Western White Pines and towering Douglas Firs. There are lush forests in the Idaho Panhandle or the impressive Sawtooth National Forest, which boasts over 2.1 million acres of wooded land by itself.
Plus the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the largest contiguous wilderness area in the lower 48 states. Forests cover about 40% of the state.
6. Montana
- Forested: 22.5 million acres
Montana’s vast, rugged landscape is brimming with forests that cover nearly 30% of the state. Glacier National Park, with its pristine forests and soaring mountain peaks, is a must-visit destination for any nature lover. Explore the Bitterroot National Forest, where you’ll find miles of wooded trails and an abundance of wildlife.
5. Georgia
- Forested: 24.8 million acres
With over 67% of its land covered by trees, Georgia is a paradise for forest aficionados. The state is home to the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest and the lush Okefenokee Swamp, which provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Don’t miss the Blue Ridge Mountains, where you’ll find a colorful display of foliage in the fall.
4. Oregon
- Forested: 30.5 million acres
The breathtaking state of Oregon is famous for its dense, verdant forests that cover about 48 percent of the land. From the temperate rainforests of the Pacific Northwest to the high desert Ponderosa pines, Oregon’s forests showcase a wide variety of tree species.
Be sure to visit the iconic Crater Lake National Park, which offers scenic views and old-growth forests, and explore the lush Willamette Valley, where you’ll find over 300 miles of wooded trails.
3. California
- Forested: 33 million acres
While California may be best known for its sandy beaches and Hollywood glamour, the state also boasts an impressive array of forests that cover about a third of the state. The Redwood National and State Parks are home to the tallest trees on Earth, there’s also the ancient groves of the Sequoia National Park.
In the Sierra Nevada mountains, you’ll find the amazing and unique Yosemite National Park, offering a range of wooded landscapes to explore.
2. Texas
- Forested: 63 million acres
Though often associated with vast plains and deserts, Texas boasts a surprising number of wooded areas. The East Texas Piney Woods region is home to the largest contiguous forest in the state, featuring towering pine trees and verdant landscapes.
The Big Thicket National Preserve offers a unique blend of ecosystems, with dense forests, bayous, and swamps that are perfect for exploring. About 38 percent of Texas’ land is covered in forest.
1. Alaska
- Forested: 126 million acres
Topping our list as the most densely wooded state in the US is Alaska, with forests covering an astounding 35% of its land area. The state’s vast, pristine wilderness offers a breathtaking array of landscapes, from the rainforests of the Southeast to the boreal forests of the Interior.
Experience the majesty of the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, or venture into the remote Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, where you’ll find a stunning array of flora and fauna.