West Virginia / Randolph County / Monongahela National Forest / Otter Creek Wildlife Management Area

Stuart Recreation Area

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens mid-April (typically April 18) and operates through October 13. Reservations available via Recreation.gov.

About

Stuart Recreation Area is a well-established campground nestled along a bend in the Shavers Fork River within Monongahela National Forest, approximately 6 miles northeast of Elkins. Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, this facility combines a developed campground with extensive day-use amenities. The campground features 25 single-unit sites and 1 double site, all with electric hookups, fire rings, lantern posts, picnic tables, and paved spurs. Most sites and facilities are ADA accessible. A separate group campground accommodates up to 40 people but does not have electricity. The facility includes flush restrooms with showers and vault toilets, potable water, and an RV dump station. The Shavers Fork River, a tributary of the Cheat River, is regularly stocked with trout and provides excellent fishing opportunities. A river beach area offers swimming, though there is no lifeguard. The 2-mile River Loop Trail follows the river and is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. The adjacent day-use area features three reservable pavilions, maintained fields, volleyball, and numerous picnic facilities spread across five parking areas. A historic cabin added for the 2025 season is now available for rent. Located in the Allegheny Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 4,863 feet, the recreation area sits within the Otter Creek Wildlife Management Area in Randolph County. The town of Elkins, which hosts the annual Mountain State Forest Festival each October, is just a 14-minute drive away. Note that the recreation area may flood during high water events, and entrance gates are locked from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Directions

From Elkins, take US Route 33 east for approximately 4 miles. Turn north on WV 33/8 (old US Route 33) and follow signs. Turn north on WV Route 6 and drive 0.5 miles to the entrance.

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