The forest is approximately 10 miles west of Chattanooga and is heavily utilized by the public.

It is situated on the scenic Tennessee River Gorge.

The property for Prentice Cooper was acquired by simple purchase between 1938 and 1944.

The site was proclaimed a State Forest in 1945. Sixty-nine percent of the forest is in multiple-use regulated forests and the remainder is in conservation areas.

Approximately 6,939 acres are designated as unregulated scenic zones that protect this view shed and other scenic areas of the forest. Hicks Gap Natural Area (350 acres) also occurs in the forest and was developed to protect the federally endangered Large-flowered Skullcap.

The forest also includes several in-holdings owned by Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and 3 cemeteries.

There are 35 miles of hiking trails, including the south end of the Cumberland Trail State Park.

There also are two designated camping areas.

Hunting has been a traditional use of the forest.

Other recreational activities include OHV use in designated areas, rock climbing, hiking, Mountain biking, horseback riding, bird watching, and camping.