The approaching arrival of spring brings excitement for camping, hiking, and experiencing Monongahela National Forest. Preparations are underway to open favorite recreation sites across the landscape. Recreation and getting outside improves one’s moods, relieves stress and makes one a happier person.
Campground and picnic shelter reservations for some sites may be made at www.recreation.gov. Roadside camping, also called dispersed camping or boondocking, is available in many areas of the Forest year-round. Call local offices for details.
Important safety reminder – the lack of cell phone service at Monongahela National Forest is something to consider when trip planning, but with a little preparation, a person can unplug and still have a safe and fun trip. Learn about recreating safely and responsibly on the national forest at https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/responsible-recreation.
The 2024 opening dates for developed recreation sites in the surrounding area are listed. These dates may change based on local conditions. Visit the Mon’s Recreation Conditions Report at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/mnf/recreation for the most current information.
Opening dates for recreation sites on Cheat-Potomac Ranger District (304-478-2000) in the Elkins and Parsons areas are Bear Heaven Campground on April 15, Horseshoe Recreation Area on May 13, Lower Glady Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 162) area opens when snow-free with toilets opening April 15 and Stuart Recreation Area on April 19.
Opening dates for recreation sites on Cheat-Potomac Ranger District (304-257-4488) in the Petersburg and Seneca Rocks areas are Big Bend Campground on April 12, Dolly Sods Picnic Area on April 15 (weather permitting), Forest Road 19 in the Dolly Sods area on April 1 (weather permitting), Forest Road 75 in the Dolly Sods area on April 15 (weather permitting), Gandy Creek Dispersed Camping (County Route 29) opens when snow-free with toilets opening April 15, Gatewood Group Campground on April 19, Jess Judy Group Campground on April 12, Red Creek Campground on April 15 (weather permitting), Seneca Rocks Discovery Center on April 5, Seneca Rocks Picnic Area on April 1, Seneca Shadows Campground on April 12, Spruce Knob Lake is open year-round with toilets opening on April 15, Spruce Knob Lake Campground on April 19 and Spruce Knob Observation Tower area opens when snow-free with toilets opening April 15.
Opening dates for recreation sites on Greenbrier Ranger District (304-456-3335) in the Bartow area are Gaudineer Knob Picnic Area opens when snow-free with toilets opening April 15, Island Campground on April 15, Lake Buffalo is open year-round with toilets opening April 15, Laurel Fork Campground on April 15, Little River Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 17) area opens when snow-free, Middle Mountain Cabins on April 15, Mower Tract Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 227) area opens when snow-free, Old House Run Picnic Area on April 14 and Stonecoal Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 209) is currently closed for construction.
For more information about recreation facilities, contact the district office near the location a person would like to visit. Contact information is listed at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mnf/about-forest/offices.
