Below are the 2025 opening dates for developed recreation sites on the Monongahela National Forest.
The information is intended to be effective through Memorial Day, May 26, but may change based on local conditions or new information. We expect to have an updated schedule of open recreation sites in early June that will cover site operations through the end of July.
Please visit the Mon’s Recreation Conditions Report at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recmain/mnf/recreation for the most current information. Campground and picnic shelter reservations for some sites may be made at www.recreation.gov.
Dispersed camping opportunities are not included in the information, below, but are available in many areas of the Forest year-round. Visitors can contact ranger district offices listed for details.
Important safety reminder – the lack of cell phone service on the Monongahela National Forest is something to consider when trip planning, but with a little preparation, you can unplug and still have a safe and fun trip. Learn about recreating safely and responsibly on your national forest at https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/responsible-recreation.
Opening dates for recreation sites on the Marlinton-White Sulphur Ranger District (304-536-2144) in the White Sulphur Springs area:
- Anthony Creek Dispersed Camping (State Route 21/2) – Area opens when snow-free
- Blue Bend Recreation Area – Campground and small pavilion opens April 18. Large Pavilion opens May 17.
- Blue Meadow Group Campground – May 23
- Hopkins Mountain Fireman’s Cabin – April 11
- Lake Sherwood Recreation Area boat ramp and trailhead – open year-round
- Lake Sherwood Recreation Area entrance road dispersed camping (State Route 14) – opens when snow-free
- Lake Sherwood Recreation Area West Shore Camping Loop – May 19
- Lake Sherwood Recreation Area remaining campground loops, group camping, picnic area, picnic pavilion and swimming beach – May 20. Day Use fee will be charged beginning May 19.
Opening dates for recreation sites on Greenbrier Ranger District (304-456-3335) in the Bartow area:
- Gaudineer Knob Picnic Area – Area opens when snow-free; toilets open April 15
- Island Campground – April 15
- Lake Buffalo – Lake open year-round; toilets open April 15
- Laurel Fork Campground – April 15
- Little River Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 17) – Area opens when snow-free
- Middle Mountain Cabins – April 15
- Mower Tract Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 227) – Area opens when snow-free
- Old House Run Picnic Area – April 15
- Stonecoal Dispersed Camping (Forest Road 209) – Currently closed for construction.
For more information about recreation facilities, contact the District Office near the location you would like to visit. Contact information is listed at https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mnf/about-forest/offices. USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.
