Jess Judy
Jess Judy is a group camping facility located on the South Branch of the Potomac River, in West Virginia;s eastern panhandle, about 1.5 miles south of Big Bend. Canoeing, fishing and hiking are popular activities.
About 1.3 million visitors come to the Monongahela National Forest each year, and it's no surprise why. The forest is a drivable distance from cities like Washington D.C. and Pittsburgh, yet the density of flora, fauna and picturesque mountains seem like a world away from any city.
The campground has three primitive group sites that can accommodate up to 40 people each. No drinking water is available, so please bring your own supply. Accessible vault toilets are provided.
Need to Know
- Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from the area after eating
- A daily fee will be charged for each extra vehicle beginning with the 11th vehicle
- No electric site hookups at this facility
- Click here to learn more about the Monongahela National Forest
- Don't move firewood: To limit the spread of invasive tree-killing pests, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Some states have quarantines and may confiscate your firewood. Please help protect our forests from invasive species by obtaining your firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Visit dontmovefirewood.org for more information.
Access Road Subject to FLOODING – Roads accessing this recreation area may become impassable due to flash flooding. Monitor conditions and expect delays in departing until flood waters recede. YOUR SAFTETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILTY
Natural Features
Jess Judy is situated in the northern portion of the Monongahela National Forest, on the western banks of the river. The region boasts beautiful old-growth forests that become vibrant with color in fall.
the South Branch of the Potomac River runs north through Smoke Hole Canyon, which bears a name of uncertain origin. One theory is Native Americans once used the caves in the canyon for smoking meat, which created "smoke holes." Another is that misty fog often lies along the river and ascends in what looks like smoke from a hole.
Nearby Attractions
Traverse through narrow, steep valleys and over rolling, tree-topped mountains on the Highland Scenic Highway. This 43-mile drive includes highlights like Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Summit Lake, and the Falls of Hills Creek.
Recreation
Visitors enjoy canoeing and fishing on the river, and hiking on local trails. Thirty miles of maintained trails can be found nearby and mountain biking is permitted on most of them. One highly recommended trail for hikers and backpackers is the North Fork Mountain Trail.
Contact Information
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MONONGAHELA WV
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 304-358-3253
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Follow 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 for approximately 2 miles. Jess Judy Campground will be on the right.
Available Campsites
- Site A, Loop JESS JUDY , Type Group Standard Area Nonelectric
- Site C, Loop JESS JUDY , Type Group Standard Area Nonelectric
- Site B, Loop JESS JUDY , Type Group Standard Area Nonelectric
