Monongahela National Forest Guide
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The Monongahela National Forest has 919,000 acres of varied habitats that are located in 10 counties of the highlands of West Virginia. The national forest is one of the more diverse national forests, mostly because of the opposing patterns of precipitation caused by the large differences in elevation inside the preserve that ranges from 1,000 feet at the lowest elevation to an elevation of 4,863 feet at the top of Spruce Knob. The western side receives an average of 60 inches of rain annually whereas the eastern side of the mountains receives roughly half that amount. The resulting biological variety is reflected by the wide variety of plants and wildlife. Of these plant and animal species, eight are listed as endangered. Inside the park, you will find a network of multi-use road and trail systems that contain miles of railroad grades, and hunting and fishing are popular activities throughout the national forest.
Camping in Monongahela National Forest
Visiting a large national forest like Monongahela National Forest is much easier to plan when utilizing an RV from RVshare for your trip. Driving an RV will enable you to get around to all your desired sites with a minimum of fuss and effort.
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Spruce Knob Campground
The Spruce Knob Campground affords you the chance to stay near the highest peak in West Virginia, Spruce Knob, which is 4,863 feet above sea level. Every site at this campground in the Monongahela National Forest offers access to hiking up Spruce Knob, and you can also hike on other trails in the 60-mile trail system in the area as well as fish at Spruce Knob Lake. Spruce Knob Tower is an observation tower on the top of Spruce Knob, and it provides everyone with a clear view of the forests below. The Whispering Spruce Trail encircles the tower and has several interpretive signs that describe the local plants, geology, and wildlife.
Number of sites: 42
Rates: Call for rates
Type of hookup: Non-electric
Wi-Fi: No
Pool or hot tub: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Showers: No
Laundry: No
Other amenities: Potable water, vault toilets
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Seneca Shadows Campground
The Seneca Shadows Campground is inside the Monongahela National Forest and sits below the Seneca Rocks, a 900-foot natural wall of rocks. This is a newer, more modern campground that is ADA-accessible. It's framed by mountains on the east and west ends and has paved roads, street lights, restrooms, and showers. The North Fork South Branch Potomac River is nearby and offers excellent fishing. Within the park, there are hiking trails, a learning center, and a swimming beach.
Type of sites: Pull-in sites with a maximum length of 90 feet
Type of hookup: Electric on Loop C and non-electric on Loops A and B
Amps: 30 amps
Wi-Fi: No
Pool or hot tub: No
Pet-friendly: Yes
Showers: Yes
Laundry: No
Other amenities: Dump station, potable water
RV Rentals Near Monongahela National Forest
Monongahela National Forest Hiking Trails
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North Fork Mountain Trail
The North Fork Mountain Trail is an in-and-out trail located near Riverton, WV, that runs alongside a river for a portion of the trail. The views of North Fork Mountain are highly rated, and you can camp along the trail. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
Length: 17.7 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Red Spruce Knob
Red Spruce Knob is an in-and-out trail located near Marlinton, WV, that features beautiful wildflowers, plenty of green mosses, and stands of trees. The trail goes to the top of Spruce Knob, where hikers can stop and take in the view. The path itself has spongy peat moss and lots of roots, and hikers should watch their steps. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
Length: 3.1 miles
Intensity: Easy
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Hoye Crest
Hoye Crest is an in-and-out trail located near Eglon, WV, and features a "logging" area where hikers can stop and log their personal experiences while on the trail. It's fun to read others' logs as you write your own. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Cheat Junction and High Falls
Cheat Junction and High Falls is an in-and-out trail located near Huttonsville, WV, that has a waterfall. The trail follows an old railroad bed for most of the path, which begins near private land but is then inside the national forest. The last portion of the trail to High Falls is actually near a live portion of train track, so be careful when walking in this area, and watch for trains. When you reach High Falls, there are areas where you can swim. Many hikers camp overnight while on the trail. Dogs are allowed on leashes.
Length: 10-12 miles
Intensity: Moderate
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Table Rock
Table Rock is an in-and-out trail located near Davis, WV, that has lots of wildflowers during the spring and early summer months. The trail is a short one and is suitable for a family outing. However, the trail is not well-marked, so it should be hiked during daylight hours. Dogs are allowed if leashed.
Length: 2.3 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Activities in Monongahela National Forest
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Nature Watching
There are many recreational opportunities for everyone in the Monongahela National Forest. You will be able to see more than 75 species of trees, 225 bird species, and many other types of wildlife that include black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, rabbits, woodcock, grouse, and whitetail deer.
Red spruce, northern hardwood, oak, and hickory line the high peaks of the mountain ridges, and blueberry and blackberry plants crowd the ground. There are 60 non-game fish and 12 game fish species in the rivers and lakes.
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Stargazing
The park offers great views of the night skies on clear nights.
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Geocaching
There are plenty of geocaches you can explore in the forest.
How to get to Monongahela National Forest
Address: 200 Sycamore Street, Elkins, WV 26241
Fee: Entry fee $0
The Monongahela National Forest contains a vast number of diverse and beautiful habitats that include mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and meadows. In order to see all that this natural wilderness has to offer the outdoor enthusiast, driving an RV is the most economical and practical way to experience your road trip. Start planning your Monongahela National Forest trip now for a wonderful time in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Monongahela National Forest
What is the closest town to Monongahela National Forest?
Mill Creek is one of the closest towns to Monongahela National Forest. You'll find grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, and campgrounds nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or stock up for a camping trip.
Can you kayak, canoe, or raft in Monongahela National Forest?
Yes, you can kayak and canoe in the Monongahela National Forest. Lake Sherwood is the largest lake in the forest, and it allows a variety of water activities including paddling. There are also several rafting outfitters in the area that offer whitewater rafting trips.
How many hiking trails does Monongahela National Forest have?
Monongahela National Forest has over 800 miles of trails in the forest. There are trails for every level of hiker, from beginners to experienced outdoorspeople. Regardless of your ability, you're sure to find a trail in the forest that suits you.
Is Monongahela National Forest open all year round?
Yes, Monogahela National Forest is open year-round. Certain recreation areas and other parts of the forest may be closed for the winter, or for safety reasons. However, dispersed camping and other activities are available in the forest year-round.
Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Monongahela National Forest?
Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Monongahela National Forest. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 days in their campsite before they must move on.
