West Virginia / Grant County / Monongahela National Forest / Potomac Wildlife Management Area / Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks National Recreation Area

Big Bend

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from early April through late October. Camping is prohibited within 300 feet of the South Branch Potomac River corridor between US Highway 220 and Big Bend Campground, except at developed campgrounds.

About

Big Bend Campground is a family-oriented destination nestled along a bend in the South Branch Potomac River within the dramatic Smoke Hole Canyon. Located in the northern portion of Monongahela National Forest, the campground sits at the end of County Route 2, approximately 10 miles southwest of Petersburg, West Virginia. The river runs just 200 feet from the campground, creating an ideal setting for fishing, swimming, tubing, and non-motorized boating. The campground is divided into River Loop sites closer to the water and Upper Loop sites (13-30) on higher ground. A one-mile nature trail circles the campground, following the river bend for most of its length. Beyond the immediate area, campers have access to 60 miles of backcountry trails in the nearby Seneca Creek Backcountry and throughout Smoke Hole Canyon, with mountain biking permitted on most trails. The surrounding forest features beautiful old growth trees that burst into vibrant color each fall. Smoke Hole Canyon itself bears a name of uncertain origin. One theory suggests Native Americans used caves in the gorge for smoking meat, creating "smoke holes," while another holds that misty fog often rises from the river in what resembles smoke ascending from a hole. The canyon and river corridor offer a remote and scenic camping experience despite being within driving distance of major cities like Washington, D.C., and Pittsburgh.

Directions

Follow US Route 28/55 from Petersburg, WV, for 8 miles. Turn left onto Smoke Hole Road, Route 28/11, and travel for 13 miles to County Route 2. Turn left onto Smoke Hole Road, County Route 2, and follow approximately 3 miles to Big Bend Campground. Alternative: Follow US Route 220 from Petersburg to the Upper Tract Bridge at County Route 2, turn right at the bridge, and follow County Route 2 for 10 miles.

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