Craig Creek Recreation Area

About

Craig Creek Recreation Area is a rustic group camping destination in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, located about 11 miles east of New Castle, Virginia. The campground occupies a large open field in a narrow valley flanked by National Forest land, with mature shade trees edging the camping area. The real draw here is Craig Creek itself, which features a swimming hole that has been popular with families for generations. The creek is stocked with trout, making it a solid fishing spot, and canoeists can use the area as a put-in or take-out point. A two-mile loop trail winds through the recreation area for easy day hiking. Facilities are primitive: vault toilets, picnic tables, a group fire ring, and an entrance gate with a code provided upon reservation confirmation. There is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. The adjacent day-use area is free and open sunrise to sunset but overnight camping there is prohibited.

Directions

From I-81 exit 141, take SR 419 north to SR 311. In New Castle, turn right onto SR 615 and go 11 miles to SR 817 in Oriskany. Turn right on SR 817, go 0.5 mile, then turn right at the sign for Craig Creek. Veer right for the camping area gate. Total distance from I-81 is 31 miles, approximately 50 minutes.