Blue Bend Campground

For West Virginia locals who cherish genuine outdoor experiences, away from the hustle and bustle of commercialized recreation, Blue Bend Campground offers a truly authentic escape. Nestled within the expansive and breathtaking Monongahela National Forest near Frankford, WV, this recreation area is renowned for its iconic "swimming hole" on Anthony Creek and its inviting, rustic charm. It's a place where generations of West Virginians have come to cool off, cast a line, and reconnect with the unspoiled beauty of our Mountain State.

Blue Bend is more than just a campground; it’s a full-fledged recreation area providing opportunities for both campers and day visitors. Established with a rich history by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, it retains a rustic appeal that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Visitors consistently praise the clear waters of Anthony Creek and the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to pitch a tent, park a smaller camper, or simply spend a day enjoying the water and trails, Blue Bend provides a welcoming environment. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to what makes Blue Bend Campground a cherished local gem, from its unique features to its essential amenities, helping you plan your next memorable visit.

Blue Bend Campground is located in Frankford, WV 24938, USA. Specifically, it's part of the Blue Bend Recreation Area within the Monongahela National Forest, situated along State Route 16, near Alvon, West Virginia. For West Virginia locals, this location offers a manageable drive into the heart of the forest. It’s approximately 8 miles north of White Sulphur Springs on State Route 92, then about 4 miles west on State Route 16 into the recreation area.

The drive to Blue Bend is scenic, winding through the beautiful landscapes that define this part of West Virginia. While it offers a remote and natural feel, access is generally straightforward via paved state routes. This means it’s accessible for most vehicles, including RVs and trailers, though campers should always be prepared for mountain roads. Its immersion in the National Forest means you're immediately surrounded by extensive hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it an ideal base for exploring the region's natural wonders. The convenience of being located near communities like White Sulphur Springs means essential supplies are within a reasonable distance, balancing seclusion with practicality, which is often a key consideration for West Virginia residents planning outdoor trips.

• Campsites (21 total): Blue Bend Campground offers 21 individual campsites. These sites are suitable for both tent and smaller trailer camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor dining and meal preparation.
• Fire Grates/Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire grate or ring, often with a grill, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying a traditional campfire experience.
• Waste Receptacles: Each site has a waste receptacle for convenient trash disposal, encouraging a "Leave No Trace" approach.
• Lantern Posts: A lantern post is provided at each site for hanging lights.
• Flush Toilets and Running Water (Seasonal): During the summer months, flush toilets with running water are available in the camping areas, providing a more comfortable experience.
• Vault Toilets (Spring & Fall): In the spring and fall seasons, when flush toilets may be closed, vault toilets are available for use.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at Blue Bend, often from various water fountains throughout the area. However, be aware that running water systems may be seasonal, with hand pumps available in spring and fall.
• Limited Electric Hookups: Only a very limited number of sites (Site 13 and 15, one double electric, and one single electric) have electric hookups. Most sites are non-electric.
• No Water or Sewer Hookups at Sites: There are no direct water or sewer hookups at individual campsites.
• No Dump Station: Blue Bend Campground does not have an on-site dump station. Campers will need to plan accordingly for waste disposal.
• Group Picnic Shelters: Two rustic picnic shelters with fireplaces are available, including a large shelter that can be reserved for group outings and family reunions. These are connected by a swinging bridge across Anthony Creek.

• The "Swimming Hole" on Anthony Creek: A standout feature and a local favorite, Anthony Creek offers an "authentic swimming hole" with clear, refreshing water. This is a major draw, especially during warmer months, and is typically "not too crowded."
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Anthony Creek is also a great spot for fishing, particularly for trout, making it popular with anglers.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: The recreation area provides access to a network of hiking trails, including the popular 5-mile Blue Bend Loop Trail which offers "three scenic overlooks" and has been recently cleaned up for easier navigation. Other trails like the Anthony Creek Trail follow the creek through rhododendron-filled valleys.
• Historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Design: The campground and recreation area were planned and developed by the CCC in the 1930s, lending a unique historical and rustic charm to the facilities, including log picnic shelters.
• Peaceful and Uncrowded Atmosphere: Compared to more popular and larger hiking spots, Blue Bend is noted for offering more "seclusion," making it ideal for those seeking a quieter outdoor experience.
• Diverse Wildlife: Situated within the Monongahela National Forest, the area is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, wild turkeys, deer, and various bird species, offering great opportunities for nature viewing.
• Day Use Area: Beyond camping, Blue Bend is also a fantastic spot for day visitors to picnic, swim, and hike. Individual picnic sites are available.
• Proximity to Greenbrier River Trail: The area provides access to other notable regional features, including the Greenbrier River Trail, which is excellent for biking and longer hikes.

As a campground operated by the U.S. Forest Service within the Monongahela National Forest, Blue Bend Campground typically operates with standardized fee structures rather than promotional offers or discounts in the traditional commercial sense. The fees are set to support the maintenance and operation of the recreation area.

Based on available information, camping fees range from approximately $16.00 to $40.00 per night, depending on the type of site (e.g., standard, electric, or double electric). Any changes to these fees, or specific information regarding passes (such as interagency passes that might offer discounts at federal recreation sites), would be communicated through official Forest Service channels, such as Recreation.gov, or posted on-site at the campground. It is always advisable to check the most current information directly via the Forest Service website or Recreation.gov when planning your trip to confirm current rates and any applicable fee policies.

For inquiries about Blue Bend Campground and the Blue Bend Recreation Area, as it is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Monongahela National Forest, you would typically contact the relevant Ranger District office.

• Address: Frankford, WV 24938, USA (This address provides a general geographical location for the campground.)
• For direct inquiries or specific questions:
  • Phone: (304) 635-3961 (This general phone number for the Monongahela National Forest can direct you to the appropriate Ranger District if needed, often the White Sulphur Springs Ranger District).
  • For more direct information, specifically regarding the White Sulphur Ranger District which manages Blue Bend: (304) 536-2144.

Additionally, booking for many National Forest campgrounds can be done through Recreation.gov. While some sites might be first-come, first-served, it's noted that Blue Bend sites are often reservable up to 6 months in advance via this platform. Checking Recreation.gov is also an excellent way to see site-specific details, availability, and confirmed pricing.

For West Virginia locals, Blue Bend Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's a quintessential slice of our state's natural heritage. Its location within the magnificent Monongahela National Forest near Frankford makes it an accessible yet deeply immersive outdoor destination. We know the value of a true "swimming hole," and Anthony Creek at Blue Bend delivers, offering a refreshing and authentic experience that has been enjoyed by generations of West Virginians.

This campground is ideal for those who appreciate rustic camping and direct access to pristine natural environments. It caters to a range of interests, from the avid angler seeking trout in Anthony Creek to families looking for a safe and clean place to swim, or hikers eager to explore the diverse trails that meander through the surrounding forest. The manageable size and often quieter atmosphere, especially compared to more heavily trafficked areas, provide the perfect setting for genuine relaxation and reconnection with nature.

Choosing Blue Bend means supporting our National Forests and preserving these precious natural resources for future generations. It offers a chance to escape the everyday without traveling far from home, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty, tranquility, and recreational opportunities that make West Virginia truly "wild and wonderful." For a real taste of authentic Mountain State outdoor living, Blue Bend Campground is a local treasure waiting to be explored.

Blue Bend Campground

Frankford, WV 24938, USA