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Camping areas closed in several north Georgia counties due to coronavirus

GAINESVILLE, Ga. — The Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests is temporarily shutting down all dispersed camping corridors, day-use areas, trailhead facilities and other recreation sites on the Blue Ridge Ranger District to protect public health and safety.

The decision aligns with state and local measures to stop the spread of COVID-19, and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

[RELATED: North Georgia Officials: Visitors are not welcome in the mountains this weekend]

“We continually consult with local leaders in our communities, in order to be in alignment with local decisions that protect human health and safety,” said Edward Hunter, Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests’ acting forest supervisor. “The health and safety of our employees and the public remain our top priority,” FEMA officials in Fannin County said.