McLaughlin Recreation

For West Virginia locals who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and serene solitude of our Mountain State, McLaughlin Recreation offers an authentic outdoor experience. Located along the picturesque Williams River in Cowen, WV, these campsites are part of the vast and magnificent Monongahela National Forest. This isn't your typical commercial campground with bustling amenities; instead, it provides a more rustic and immersive connection to nature, perfect for those seeking peace, excellent fishing, and access to miles of hiking trails.

McLaughlin Recreation refers to a collection of scattered, individual campsites found along the Williams River Road (designated as Forest Roads 86 and 216). Many of these sites are nestled close to the river, making them particularly popular with anglers and anyone who enjoys the soothing sounds of flowing water. For generations, West Virginians have sought out these types of hidden gems to escape the everyday and truly embrace the "wild and wonderful" spirit of our state. This article will guide you through what to expect at McLaughlin Recreation, providing essential details on its location, the services it offers, and what makes it an ideal choice for your next true West Virginia outdoor adventure.

McLaughlin Recreation is located along Williams River Rd, Cowen, WV 26206, USA. This places it deep within the Monongahela National Forest, renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities. For West Virginia locals, reaching Cowen is typically a straightforward drive through scenic mountain roads. From Cowen, you'll follow State Route 46 to the start of Williams River Road (Forest Road 86), with the first campsites appearing about 10 miles upstream from Cowen.

The Williams River Road itself runs for a considerable length, with campsites scattered along its course. Twenty-one sites are administered by the Gauley Ranger District, located up to the Highland Scenic Highway bridge (State Route 150). Ten additional sites, administered by the Marlinton Ranger District, are found upstream from State Route 150, where Williams River Road becomes Forest Road 216. While offering a remote feel, the access via well-maintained (though unpaved in sections) forest roads makes it manageable for most vehicles. However, campers should be prepared for a journey into a less developed area, ensuring their vehicles are suitable for gravel roads. Its immersion within the National Forest makes it truly accessible to the expansive trail systems and natural wonders that define West Virginia's central highlands, offering an authentic wilderness experience right in our backyard.

McLaughlin Recreation focuses on providing essential amenities for rustic camping, catering to those who appreciate a more natural setting.

• Rustic Campsites: There are 30 separate, rustic campsites available. These sites are designed for both tent and trailer camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Campfire Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire ring, complete with a grill, perfect for cooking over an open flame and enjoying campfires.
• Lantern Posts: A convenient lantern hanger is provided at each site.
• Waste Receptacles: To help keep the forest clean, each campsite has a waste receptacle. However, guests should be "Bear Aware" and keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside their vehicle, and remove all food from the area after eating.
• Vault Toilets: Several vault (pit) toilets are spaced along the Williams River Road for convenience. It's important to note that these toilets are closed in winter.
• No RV Hookups: These are rustic campsites, and therefore, no RV hookups (electric, water, or sewer) are available directly at the sites.
• Dump Station Access (Off-site): While there are no on-site dump stations, information indicates that dump stations and water fill are available in Richwood at Four Seasons Outfitter and Adventure Sports, and also in Marlinton. Cranberry Campground also has a donation-based dump station.
• Water: There is no direct water hookup at the campsites. Guests should plan to bring their own water or be prepared to obtain it from nearby sources as advised by forest service regulations.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted.

• Prime Fishing Destination: The Williams River is renowned for its excellent fishing, particularly trout, smallmouth bass, and other species. Many campsites are located "close to the river," making McLaughlin Recreation a top choice for anglers.
• Immersive Wilderness Experience: Located deep within the Monongahela National Forest, the campground offers a genuine wilderness experience. It's an ideal spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the natural sounds and sights of West Virginia's forests.
• Access to Extensive Hiking Trails: These campsites are conveniently located near the Tea Creek area and Cranberry Wilderness, providing access to over 100 miles of diverse hiking trails. This is a significant draw for hikers and backpackers of all skill levels.
• Wildlife Viewing: The dense forest environment makes it an excellent location for wildlife viewing. Visitors may spot various bird species, deer, and other forest animals.
• Remote and Peaceful Setting: Because sites are scattered along the river road and are rustic, McLaughlin Recreation generally offers a more peaceful and private camping experience compared to larger, more developed campgrounds.
• Scenic Beauty: The natural beauty of the Williams River and the surrounding Monongahela National Forest is a major highlight, offering picturesque views and a refreshing escape.
• Dog-Friendly: Dogs are permitted at the campsites, provided they are kept on a leash (6 feet or shorter) at all times, making it a great option for those who want to bring their furry companions.
• Close to Other Recreational Areas: Beyond the immediate vicinity, the campground is a short distance from other popular recreation spots like the Cranberry Wilderness, and the scenic Highland Scenic Highway (State Route 150), offering additional exploration opportunities.

As a collection of rustic, first-come, first-served campsites within a National Forest, McLaughlin Recreation does not typically offer traditional promotions or special offers in the way a commercial campground might. The fees for these sites are generally standardized and set by the Forest Service.

Current public information indicates that there are self-service stations located near the vault toilets where fees are collected. The focus is on providing an accessible and maintained natural camping experience at a consistent, often nominal, fee. Any fee changes or specific operational details would be posted on bulletin boards at the self-service stations within the campground or communicated through the Monongahela National Forest's official channels. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees and regulations, it's always best to consult the information provided by the U.S. Forest Service or check the bulletin boards upon arrival.

Since McLaughlin Recreation consists of dispersed campsites managed by the U.S. Forest Service, there isn't a direct phone number specifically for "McLaughlin Recreation campground" that handles reservations or daily inquiries in the same way a private campground would. Instead, inquiries would go through the relevant Ranger Districts of the Monongahela National Forest.

• Address: 3311 Williams River Rd, Cowen, WV 26206, USA (This address serves as a general geographic reference for the area along Williams River Road where the campsites are located.)
• For information regarding sites #1-20 (administered by the Gauley Ranger District):
  • Phone: (304) 846-2695 (Gauley Ranger District, Richwood, WV)
  • Mailing Address: 932 North Fork Cherry River Road, Richwood WV 26261
• For information regarding sites #21-30 (administered by the Marlinton Ranger District):
  • Phone: (304) 799-4334 (Marlinton Ranger District, Marlinton, WV)
  • Mailing Address: PO Box 210, Marlinton WV 24954

It's important to remember that these are administrative offices for the National Forest and not a direct line to the campground itself. They can provide general information about regulations, conditions, and what to expect.

For West Virginia locals, McLaughlin Recreation offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the true essence of our state's wild and wonderful outdoors. Its location along the pristine Williams River, nestled deep within the Monongahela National Forest, means you're stepping into a genuinely untamed landscape that is both accessible and immensely rewarding. This isn't about luxury glamping or crowded resort-style camping; it's about reconnecting with nature in its purest form.

The emphasis on rustic campsites, complete with fire rings and picnic tables, appeals directly to those who cherish traditional camping, offering a simple yet profound escape. The abundant opportunities for fishing in the Williams River – a favored local spot – and direct access to over a hundred miles of hiking trails in the Cranberry Wilderness and Tea Creek area make it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a place where you can truly unplug, listen to the sounds of the forest, and breathe in the clean mountain air.

By choosing McLaughlin Recreation, West Virginians are embracing the authentic spirit of our state – its natural beauty, its peaceful solitude, and its endless possibilities for adventure. It's a convenient, budget-friendly, and profoundly rewarding option for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the wild heart of West Virginia, making it an ideal local choice for your next true camping expedition.

McLaughlin Recreation

3311 Williams River Rd, Cowen, WV 26206, USA