Stuart Recreation Area

4.21

154 reviews

CHEAT RANGER DIST PO BOX 368

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds West Virginia Swimming Camping West Virginia Fall Camping West Virginia +4 more

Quick Facts

2,372 ft

Price

$33 - $150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

The campground opera...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Cheat Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

2,372 ft

Price

$33 - $150/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

The campground opera...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Cheat Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Stuart Recreation Area

$33.00 - $150.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fees range from $33 for standard electric sites to $150 for cabin rentals. Other options include group shelters ($55-$130) with varied amenities....

Standard Site Fee$33.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$70.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

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What Campers Say

4.21

Satisfactory

Based on 154 reviews

169 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanspaciousfriendly

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Stuart Recreation Area are generally positive, highlighting spacious and private campsites, friendly hosts, and well-maintained facilities. However, some reviews mention issues with water availability, restroom cleanliness, and noise from nearby highways or dogs."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

CHEAT RANGER DIST PO BOX 368

Stuart Recreation Area

CHEAT RANGER DIST PO BOX 368

Driving directionsFrom Elkins, West Virginia: Take Highway 219 to Highway 33. Travel east for approximately 4 miles, turn north on old Route 33 and travel for 2 miles. Turn left at Highway 6 (at the Stuart Recreation Area directional sign) and drive .25 miles to entrance.

The campground is easily accessible from US Highway 33 via paved roads and is well-marked. Some user reviews mention the need for better signage at the entrance to the camp along Old Route 33.

Nearby places

Elkins, WV - approximately 14 minutes by car.

Best Time to Camp at Stuart Recreation Area

Experience nature's air conditioning in the Allegheny Mountains, where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cooler than the nearby town of Elkins, even when valley temperatures climb to the mid-90s. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant colors, temperatures gradually dip toward winter's crystalline beauty, when frost decorates the landscape and occasional snow transforms the campground into a winter wonderland. Spring and fall bring rejuvenating rains that keep the forest lush and the river flowing strong, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Cooler summer temps are a plus; reviews note bugs and highway noise in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Spring and fall get more positive reviews; foliage and cooler weather highlighted in fall.

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring reviews are positive; cool temps and budding foliage draw visitors.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed from mid-October through third Friday in April.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 18, 2025 - October 12, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground operates from the third Friday night in April through Columbus Day weekend in October.
Current Alerts: No active alerts noted.

About Stuart Recreation Area

Nestled within a lush mixed forest where the Shavers Fork River curves through the landscape, Stuart Recreation Area invites campers to experience the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural beauty. Twenty-six thoughtfully designed campsites—including 25 single sites and one spacious double site—each feature electric hookups, smooth paved spurs, and dedicated tent pads for a comfortable stay. Gather around the campfire rings under the glow of traditional lantern posts, or refresh yourself with hot showers and modern facilities. Beyond your campsite, discover riverside picnic pavilions perfect for family gatherings, a welcoming river beach where the water meets the shore, and expansive maintained fields ideal for games and relaxation.

Stuart Recreation Area caters to a variety of camping styles, including RV, tent, group, and cabin camping. Primitive camping options are limited.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Stuart Recreation Area's crown jewel—a meticulously preserved historic cabin that has earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places, standing as a testament to the region's rich heritage. Your camping adventure serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring the area's cultural treasures, from the dramatic cascades of nearby Blackwater Falls to the vibrant celebrations of Elkins' annual Mountain State Forest Festival, where Appalachian traditions come alive through music, crafts, and community spirit.

Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's air conditioning in the Allegheny Mountains, where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cooler than the nearby town of Elkins, even when valley temperatures climb to the mid-90s. As autumn paints the forest in brilliant colors, temperatures gradually dip toward winter's crystalline beauty, when frost decorates the landscape and occasional snow transforms the campground into a winter wonderland. Spring and fall bring rejuvenating rains that keep the forest lush and the river flowing strong, creating an ever-changing backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

ElevationJourney through a landscape that rises and falls between 1,000 and 4,863 feet, where elevation creates its own microclimate of comfort. This dramatic vertical range gifts the campground with naturally cooler summer temperatures, making it an ideal escape when lower elevations swelter. The varying heights create diverse ecosystems and stunning vantage points throughout your stay.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your riverside paradise where the Shavers Fork River, a pristine tributary of the mighty Cheat River, bends gracefully through the campground, its rocky rapids singing nature's soundtrack while harboring prized trout beneath the surface. Towering mixed forests create a living cathedral overhead, sheltering an abundance of wildlife that calls these Allegheny Mountain slopes home. From the lowest valleys at 1,000 feet to the surrounding peaks reaching 4,863 feet, every vista offers a new perspective on this magnificent mountain ecosystem.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the ancient grandeur of the Allegheny Mountains, where Stuart Recreation Area sits like a jewel within the vast Monongahela National Forest. This geological wonderland showcases nature's architecture across dramatic elevation changes, from river valleys at 1,000 feet to surrounding peaks that pierce the sky at 4,863 feet. The mixed forests that blanket these mountain slopes tell the story of millions of years of geological evolution, while the Shavers Fork River continues its patient work of carving through this magnificent landscape.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in begins at any time after gates open at 7 AM.

Check-out

Check-out is by 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Guests may stay up to 14 nights consecutively.

Groups

The group campground can accommodate up to 40 people. It is equipped with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets but lacks electric hookups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is arranged in a single loop with long spurs. Mountain laurel and rhododendron create natural privacy barriers.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, via the app, by phone, or through in-person services.

Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled via Recreation.gov with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting from midnight the day before check-in for individual campsites or 14 days ahead for group sites/cabins) incur an additional penalty equivalent to the first night's fee.

AccessibilityMost facilities, including restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, are ABA accessible. However, the group campground is not accessible.

Site SizeCampsites are spacious, with some large enough to accommodate up to 12 people and several tents. Site 10, for example, has two tent pads and room for a 35' trailer.

PrivacyCampsites are described as secluded and private, with vegetation like mountain laurel and rhododendrons providing natural barriers between sites.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews suggest choosing sites farther from Route 33 to avoid noise. Site 4 is noted for privacy, and site 10 offers spacious accommodations.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Stuart Recreation Area offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, river swimming, and picnicking. The day-use area features a beach and volleyball net, while the proximity to the Shavers Fork River provides opportunities for fishing and swimming.

HikingThe River Loop Trail (#119) spans 2 miles and is popular for bird and wildlife watching. User reviews highlight its accessibility: 'The hiking was nice with a beautiful overlook.'

FishingThe Shavers Fork River is a prime fishing spot, regularly stocked with trout. A state fishing license, National Forest Stamp, Conservation Stamp, and trout stamp are required. Reviews praise the fishing: 'Great trout streams all around with a short drive.'

SwimmingRiver swimming is a popular activity, especially at the beach area in the day-use section. However, there is no lifeguard on duty. One user noted, 'Swimming in the river is a treat for people of all ages.'

BikingMountain biking is allowed on the River Loop Trail, and the campground's paved roads are suitable for bike riding. One reviewer mentioned, 'My daughter's liked going for bike rides in the calm, peaceful campground.'

Wildlife viewingVisitors can watch for birds and wildlife along the River Loop Trail, with user reviews highlighting the area's natural beauty: 'Lots of wildlife! Beautiful night sky!'

Beach activitiesThe day-use area includes a riverfront beach, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. One review noted, 'There’s a little river swimming hole too.'

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRiver swimming without lifeguards poses risks. Reviews mention issues with broken glass near river access. The area is prone to flooding during heavy rains.

Active AlertsNo active alerts noted.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted but must adhere to bear safety regulations. Firewood must be purchased locally.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly defined.

Trash & RecyclingTwo dumpsters are available for trash disposal, with additional trash bins located at each shelter and group campground. Some user reviews noted that trash handling could be improved during peak usage.

Water FeaturesLocated along Shavers Fork River, the campground offers access to river swimming and trout fishing.

Camp HostHosts are frequently described as friendly and helpful, with some going above and beyond to assist visitors. "We had a pleasant welcome from the camp host," a guest noted.

Weather at Stuart Recreation Area

Reviews

4.2

154 reviews

Satisfactory

Stuart Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Stuart Recreation Area are generally positive, highlighting spacious and private campsites, friendly hosts, and well-maintained facilities. However, some reviews mention issues with water availability, restroom cleanliness, and noise from nearby highways or dogs.

Review Summaries

Based on 154 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviews praise the spacious and private campsites, friendly and helpful hosts, and the natural beauty of the area. Quotes include, 'Hosts are very friendly and helpful,' and 'The campground is...

Based on 154 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent issues include water shortages, restroom cleanliness, and noise. For example, 'Bathroom cleanliness was a disappointment,' and 'The water was down.' Noise complaints include traffic and dog...

Based on 154 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water and firewood due to occasional shortages and high prices. They also suggest arriving early for the best site selection and taking advantage of the nearby...

Based on 154 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Positive reviews are more frequent in spring and fall when the weather is cooler and the foliage is vibrant. Summer reviews often mention bugs and noise from nearby highways.

Based on 154 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Very secluded sites which I really like.' 2. 'Hosts and campground is super.' 3. 'Clean Pit toilets convenient to all sites. Shower house and rest rooms close by.'

Based on 154 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 10 is frequently praised for its seclusion and size, accommodating large groups and multiple tents. Site 4 is noted as level and spacious, while Site 14 is highlighted for its privacy.

Based on 154 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is generally well-rated, with most facilities adhering to ABA standards. However, the group campground and some trails are noted as less accessible.

Based on 154 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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