George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
Trout Pond Recreation Area boasts two beautiful lakes: Rock Cliff Lake and Trout Pond. Relax on a sandy mountain beach or fish for stocked trout while kids splash in the cool waters of Rock Cliff Lake. Trout Pond, home to native Brook trout, is the only natural lake in West Virginia. Note: Trout Pond water levels vary throughout the year. Please check our website for up-to-date conditions. A designated swimming area, and easy lakeside trails make this a perfect family destination.
Trout Pond Recreation Area is open from April - December and offers boating, fishing, picnicking, and swimming opportunities for Forest users. Note: Bathrooms, running water, and the campground are only available mid-May to October.
The day pass is only good for the day purchased and only permits the use of the beach and day use amenities.
The $8 day pass can be purchased on-site using a credit or debit card through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Once on-site, follow the posted Scan & Pay instructions. You will need to download the free Recreation.gov mobile app prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited or no cellular service. Visitors are also able to pay with cash (no change available) and checks using the fee envelopes provided at the check-in gate. For more information about paying on-site, click here: How Do I Use a Scan & Pay QR Code to Purchase an Activity Pass?
Please have the Recreation.gov app downloaded prior to arrival. Once purchased please write down confirmation number on provided envelope and post in vehicle dashboard.
This pass does not guarantee parking availability. For your safety, please remember that parking outside of designated areas is discouraged and visitors who park illegally may be fined and towed. This pass is valid until 11:59 PM of the date listed on the pass, and only for the date and vehicle specified for this pass.
America the Beautiful Passes: Senior, Access, Military, Gold Star, Veteran, and Golden Age Senior/Access area DO NOT apply to day use fees.
Passes are non-transferrable between operators, non-refundable, not replaceable if lost or stolen, and are void if altered or reproduced.
Cell phone connectivity on the forest is not available, plan ahead.
Site accepts Scan & Pay, cash, or check. Please bring exact change if your are planning to pay with cash.