Big Bend Campground

Big Bend Campground – Monongahela, WV

Located in the stunning Monongahela National Forest, Big Bend Campground provides a perfect escape for nature lovers and families. Nestled along the South Branch Potomac River in the picturesque Smoke Hole Canyon, this campground is surrounded by beautiful old-growth trees that Africanize with vibrant colors in the fall. With easy access from metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C. and Pittsburgh, it offers a remote yet accessible outdoor adventure.

Available Campsites

Big Bend features a total of 46 campsites spread across two loops, the River Loop and the Upper Loop. 18 sites are non-reservable, and the campground has first-come, first-serve availability for visitors. The sites are well-equipped with:

Picnic table
Fire ring
Lantern holder

Twelve sites on the river loop come with dedicated tent pads, making it an excellent choice for tent camping and enjoying the waterfront. There are no electric hookups at this facility, focusing on a rustic outdoor experience.

Amenities and Facilities

Big Bend Campground ensures a comfortable stay with several key amenities:

Drinking water accessible throughout the campground
Two pit toilets located within the campground
One shower house for refreshing during your stay
Flush toilet restrooms in each loop
Dump and fill station for RV usage

Keep in mind that a fee will be charged for additional vehicles, and make sure to park only in developed areas.

Recreational Activities

The prime location along the South Branch Potomac River makes Big Bend Campground a hub for various water activities. Visitors can enjoy:

Fishing in the river
Swimming in designated areas
Tubing and kayaking for leisurely exploration

The campground is also adjacent to the Big Bend Loop Trail, a scenic one-mile nature trail that offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding forest.

Nearby Attractions

For those looking to venture beyond the campground, several attractions are worth exploring:

Highland Scenic Highway – A scenic drive through steep valleys and rolling mountains, showcasing areas like the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area and the Falls of Hills Creek.
Thirty miles of maintained trails for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts.

The nearby Smoke Hole Canyon presents a unique history and landscape resembling its name, with theories about its origin rooted in Native American culture.

Safety and Guidelines

Your safety is a top priority at Big Bend Campground. Here are a few important tips:

Be bear aware: keep all food out of sight and stored in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle.
Monitor the weather as access roads may be subject to flooding. Expect delays until floodwaters recede.
It is advised not to move firewood from outside the area to prevent the spread of invasive pests. Obtain firewood locally and burn it on-site.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the campground with respect to the natural environment while enjoying a range of recreational activities. Big Bend Campground is not just a place to stay; it’s an experience to cherish amidst the natural beauty of West Virginia.