Jess Judy
4.518 reviewsMONONGAHELA
Jess Judy
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
"Recreation Use Fee: The recreation use fee for group camping is $50 per night during peak season, applicable from April 8, 2025, to October 25, 2025. Additional fees for vehicles beyond the 11th vehicle may apply."
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Monongahela National Forest, Jess Judy Group Campground beckons adventurers seeking an intimate escape along the South Branch of the Potomac River. Just 1.5 miles south of Big Bend, this secluded haven offers groups the perfect basecamp for exploring West Virginia's eastern panhandle wilderness. Whether you're paddling through morning mist, casting lines into pristine waters, or navigating mountain bike trails that wind through ancient forests, this riverside retreat promises memories to last a lifetime. While the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach without on-site drinking water, nearby Big Bend Campground provides this essential resource, ensuring your wilderness experience remains both authentic and comfortable.
The Jess Judy Group Campground is designed for primitive group camping. It offers three reservable sites suitable for up to 40 people each. RV and tent camping are not explicitly mentioned as options.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in mystery and ancient tradition at Smoke Hole Canyon, where centuries of human history have left their mark on these rugged mountains. The evocative name 'Smoke Hole' carries whispers of the past—some say it comes from Native American hunters who once used the canyon's hidden caves as natural smokehouses, their fires sending wisps of smoke curling through the limestone hollows as they preserved meat for winter months. This sacred practice connected indigenous peoples to the land for generations, transforming these caves into vital survival spaces that echo with stories of resourcefulness and deep environmental knowledge.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of West Virginia's changing seasons at Jess Judy, where crisp mountain air and dynamic weather patterns create an ever-shifting outdoor canvas. Winter brings a crystalline landscape with temperatures dipping to 26°F and occasional snow dustings (2.7% chance), while daytime highs reach a comfortable 40°F. Spring awakens the canyon with wildflower blooms and rushing waters, making it prime time for paddling adventures. Summer offers warm days perfect for tubing and riverside relaxation, while autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a spectacular display of gold, crimson, and amber. With only a 12% chance of precipitation and minimal rain (9%) or snow, most days promise clear skies ideal for stargazing and campfire gatherings.
ElevationThe campground's mountain setting provides a natural amphitheater of varying elevations, creating diverse microclimates and ecosystems throughout the camping area.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking splendor of Smoke Hole Canyon, where towering old-growth forests stand as sentinels over the winding South Branch of the Potomac River. This pristine waterway carves its path northward through the canyon, creating a ribbon of blue that reflects the surrounding cliffs and canopy. In autumn, the ancient trees burst into a symphony of colors that rival any artist's palette, while spring brings delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor. Morning mists often drift through the valley, creating an ethereal atmosphere that explains one origin of the canyon's mystical name. From your campsite, watch as eagles soar overhead, deer emerge at twilight to drink from the river, and the interplay of light and shadow transforms the landscape throughout the day.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonders of Smoke Hole Canyon, a dramatic landscape carved over millennia within the greater Monongahela National Forest. Here, the South Branch of the Potomac River has sculpted a masterpiece through ancient limestone and sandstone, creating a canyon that showcases nature's patient artistry. The surrounding old-growth forests cling to steep canyon walls, their roots anchored in soil that tells the story of countless seasons. Whether the canyon earned its name from Native American smoking practices or from the ghostly fog that regularly shrouds the river valley, this geological marvel offers visitors a chance to witness the powerful forces that shaped the Appalachian landscape. Each bend in the river reveals new vistas, from exposed rock faces that chronicle millions of years of Earth's history to hidden grottos where water continues its eternal work of creation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are provided. The group sites are primitive, and the campground overall does not offer advanced accessibility features.
Sites SizeThe campground features three group sites that can accommodate up to 40 people each.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe 'secluded group camping spots' but also mention occasional intrusion by locals.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe campground is recommended for group camping due to its capacity of 40 guests per site. "Nice hike up nearby Eagle Rock" (user review).
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention the campground's secluded and open layout but do not identify specific sites as superior.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
"Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground."
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each group site accommodates up to 40 guests.
Groups
Each of the three group sites can accommodate up to 40 people. User reviews describe the sites as 'secluded' but occasionally disrupted by locals.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three group sites and is designed for large groups up to 40 people per site. "Nice open area."
Open and Closed Season"Season Opens: April 8, 2025; Reservable Start: June 24, 2025; Season Closes: October 25, 2025."
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov and via their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is explicitly stated; reservations are required.
Cancellation Policy"Reservation Rules: Planned changes to your stay should be made as far in advance as possible. Changes require a $10 fee unless minor modifications are made. Cancellations may result in a fee retention, including $10 and the first night's recreation use fee if late."
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Jess Judy Group Campground offers a range of outdoor activities centered around its natural surroundings. Popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, fishing, tubing, and swimming. Scenic trails like the North Fork Mountain Trail are highly recommended for hikers and backpackers. The nearby Eagle Rock hike is also highlighted by users.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity at Jess Judy. Thirty miles of maintained trails are accessible nearby, with mountain biking permitted on most trails. The North Fork Mountain Trail is noted as ideal for hikers and backpackers. User reviews mention the Eagle Rock hike as an attractive nearby option.Fishing
Fishing is permitted on the South Branch of the Potomac River, which runs adjacent to the campground. User reviews highlight the enjoyment of fishing but also warn of hooks in swimming areas.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the river near the campground, but one reviewer warned of hooks left by locals fishing in the same area.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on most local trails. Specific details about trail terrain or difficulty levels are not provided.Boating
Canoeing and tubing are popular activities. One user review described tubing the river from Jess Judy to the parking lot at Big Bend, a loop that takes about 2.5 hours.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned for Jess Judy Group Campground.Water Sports
Water sports like canoeing and tubing are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted on site but firewood from outside the area is prohibited to prevent invasive species. "Don't move firewood."
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity and flash flooding. "Access Road Subject to FLOODING – Roads accessing this recreation area may become impassable due to flash flooding."
Active alerts"Be bear aware." Seasonal flooding can affect the campground's usability.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season dates"Peak Season Pricing: April 8, 2025, through October 25, 2025."
Trash and recyclingIssues with trash management were mentioned in user reviews, noting locals dumping trash in campground bins. Recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the South Branch of the Potomac River. "Great secluded group camping spots along the south branch Potomac." (user review by Erin Graf).
Common complaints"Only problem we had was locals coming in and dumping their trash in camp cans, parking in our sites, and making it a public river access." (user review by Vann C).
Host"The camp host Glenn had the sites in perfect shape and ready for us." (user review by Vann C). "Excellent camp host." (user review by Kevin Moore).
Campground Map
MONONGAHELA
Driving directionsFollow 28/55 from Petersburg, WV, for 8 miles. Turn left onto Smoke Hole Road, Route 28/11, and travel for 13 miles to County Route 2. Turn left onto Smoke Hole Road, County Route 2, and follow for approximately 2 miles. Jess Judy Campground will be on the right.
Road access to the Jess Judy campground is generally straightforward but can be affected by seasonal flooding. "Access Road Subject to FLOODING – Roads accessing this recreation area may become impassable due to flash flooding. Monitor conditions and expect delays in departing until flood waters recede. YOUR SAFETY IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY."Camper Reviews
4.5
8 reviews
Jess Judy is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Jess Judy Group Campground generally praise its scenic location, secluded atmosphere, and proximity to the South Branch of the Potomac River. Positive feedback includes mentions of friendly camp hosts, enjoyable river activities like tubing, and hiking opportunities. However, some concerns were raised about locals using the campground as public river access, parking in reserved spots, and dumping trash.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commend the campground's beauty, seclusion, and recreational opportunities. Highlights include tubing the river, hiking nearby trails, and the friendliness of camp hosts. Quotes include:...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on locals intruding on reserved sites and using campground amenities like trash cans. A user stated, 'Locals think they have the right to come in, park, and fish or swim at the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra tubes for river activities due to sharp rocks and obtaining drinking water from Big Bend Campground as water is not provided at Jess Judy. Be aware of hooks left in...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly differentiate seasonal experiences. However, the campground's popularity for river activities and hiking suggests that late spring, summer, and early fall may be ideal for...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Great secluded group camping spots along the south branch Potomac.' - Erin Graf
- 'AWESOME CAMP GROUNDS!!!! Care takers of the grounds do visit but are very nice so long as you're being...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes mentions of locals disrupting reserved site experiences, particularly at Site B, Loop Jess Judy. One user stated, 'just be prepared to miss the hooks while you swim.'
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility was praised in terms of vault toilets, but the campground overall is described as 'not accessible.'
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025