Bolar Mountain Recreation Area Campground: Your Virginia Outdoor Escape

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area Introduce

Welcome to the breathtaking Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, a premier outdoor destination nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Virginia. Located on the northern end of the magnificent Lake Moomaw, this campground offers Virginia residents and visitors alike an unparalleled opportunity to disconnect from the daily grind and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature. As part of the sprawling George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, Bolar Mountain is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a gateway to adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable family memories along the beautiful Jackson River.

Known for its pristine waters and wooded shoreline, Lake Moomaw is the centerpiece of the area, providing a serene backdrop for all your recreational pursuits. The area is intentionally remote, meaning cell service is often limited or non-existent, offering a genuine chance to unplug and appreciate the natural beauty of Western Virginia. With a commitment to preserving the environment and providing quality facilities, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area stands out as a top-tier choice for camping and outdoor activities in the Commonwealth.

The campground is designed to cater to various styles of camping, from those seeking a rustic, back-to-nature experience to those who prefer the comforts of an RV with modern amenities. You'll find a welcoming atmosphere and a range of facilities that ensure a comfortable stay while keeping the focus squarely on the great outdoors.

### Location and Accessibility

The Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is situated in a scenic and relatively secluded part of Virginia, making the journey part of the adventure. While the address is listed for Alleghany, the area is commonly associated with the nearby towns of Warm Springs and Covington, lying within the larger George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. This location places it perfectly for residents across Virginia looking for an authentic mountain and lake escape.

The physical address for the area is: 756 Twin Ridge Dr, Alleghany, VA 24426, USA. However, visitors should note that the most direct routes may involve winding, scenic roads, and it is highly recommended to finalize your route and directions before leaving an area with reliable cell service, as reception diminishes considerably closer to the recreation area. The surrounding forest roads lead you directly to the campgrounds and day-use areas, where you’ll find ample parking for vehicles and RVs.

The campground itself is thoughtfully laid out across four distinct camping areas: Sugar Ridge, Campground 1, Campground 2, and Campground 3. This segmented layout helps manage traffic and provides different experiences, from "Prime" sites with direct lake access to those offering greater seclusion among the trees. The location on the northern shore of Lake Moomaw ensures that the stunning 2,530-acre reservoir is always within easy reach for all visitors.

For those traveling with large recreational vehicles, Bolar Mountain offers big-rig friendly sites with various hookup options. The accessibility of a boat ramp at the nearby Bolar Flat Marina, which features a modern dock and boat slips, makes it especially easy for watercraft enthusiasts to launch and enjoy the lake.

### Services Offered

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area strives to provide a comprehensive range of services and facilities to enhance the camping experience for all visitors. These services cater to both tent campers and RV users, ensuring a comfortable and well-supported stay.

Campsites with Utility Hookups: Several sites, particularly in Campground 1, offer electric hookups (up to 50 amp) to accommodate RVs, with partial or full hookups available in different sections.
Restrooms and Showers: Modern facilities are provided, including flush toilets and hot showers, which are a welcome amenity after a long day of hiking or swimming.
Potable Water: Taps for drinking water are conveniently located throughout the individual camp loops.
Dump Stations: Two sanitary dump stations are available for RV waste tanks (one at Campground 1 and another at Campground 2).
Camp Host: A dedicated camp host is generally present in each camp loop to assist with questions and minor concerns.
Individual Site Amenities: Every individual campsite is equipped with essential features for a comfortable outdoor meal and evening, including a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill.
Bolar Flat Marina: This nearby facility offers a modern boat ramp and dock with boat slips for easy lake access.
Picnic Areas: Designated areas for single or group picnicking are available, including a group picnic shelter at the Bolar Mountain Day-Use Area.

### Features / Highlights

What truly sets Bolar Mountain Recreation Area apart are its distinctive natural features and the wealth of recreational opportunities they support. Lake Moomaw and its surroundings create an idyllic setting that appeals to a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Moomaw Access: This large, man-made lake covers 2,530 acres with 43 miles of wooded shoreline, providing ample space for water-based fun. It is one of the second largest impoundments in Western Virginia.
Boating and Water Sports: The lake is perfect for motorized boating, canoeing, kayaking, and even water skiing. The Bolar Flat Marina offers excellent launching facilities.
Designated Swimming Beaches: Visitors can enjoy refreshing dips during warmer months at the dedicated swimming beaches.
Exceptional Fishing: Anglers flock to Lake Moomaw for the opportunity to fish for species including brown trout, rainbow trout, bass, and crappie, either from the shore, a boat, or the designated fishing pier.
Extensive Hiking Trails: The Bolar Mountain area boasts approximately 11 miles of hiking trails. These trails, such as the Bolar Loop Trail, offer varying degrees of difficulty and lead to stunning destinations.
Scenic Overlooks: Key highlights of the hiking network are the Islands Overlook Spur and Grouse Point Overlook, which provide magnificent panoramic views of Lake Moomaw and the dense George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
Primitive Camping Options: For the truly adventurous, sites accessible only by hike or boat are available at Greenwood Point for a dispersed, more secluded camping experience.
Wildlife Viewing: Situated within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, the area is home to an incredible diversity of life, including 40 tree species, 60 species of mammals, and 200 species of birds, offering fantastic opportunities for nature observation.
Family-Friendly Recreation: On-site recreation options include a playground for younger children and a volleyball court, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome in the recreation area and campgrounds, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under physical control, in compliance with federal regulations.

### Contact Information

While the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is remote, there are dedicated offices for assistance and reservations. Since cell service is limited at the campground, visitors are advised to save this information beforehand.

Address (Physical Location): 756 Twin Ridge Dr, Alleghany, VA 24426, USA

General Contact (Warm Springs Ranger District Office):Phone: 540-839-2521(The office is typically open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and is closed on federal holidays.)

Reservations:Campsites can be reserved in advance through the national reservation service, Recreation.gov, or by contacting the local forestry office. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for peak season weekends and sites with electric hookups.

### What is Worth Choosing

For residents across Virginia and the surrounding states, the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area represents a truly exceptional value in outdoor recreation. What makes it a standout choice is the unique combination of the stunning, large-scale Lake Moomaw and the extensive, well-managed camping facilities nestled within the vast expanse of a National Forest.

The opportunity to stay at a site with a view or direct access to one of Western Virginia's largest and most beautiful lakes is a significant draw. Whether you're an avid angler hoping to catch trout, a family looking to spend a day swimming on a designated beach, or a hiker eager to conquer 11 miles of scenic trails leading to breathtaking overlooks, Bolar Mountain provides the perfect basecamp. The availability of electric hookups, hot showers, and a camp host ensures that you can enjoy the wilderness without sacrificing essential comforts.

Furthermore, its remote nature forces a true disconnection, allowing you to fully engage with your companions and the natural environment—a rare and valuable commodity in today's fast-paced world. For a diverse, amenity-rich, and authentically wild Virginia mountain and lake camping experience, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is a destination that should be at the very top of your list. It offers a genuine slice of Appalachian beauty and a chance to create lasting memories.