Stuart Recreation Area

Cheat Ranger District
PO Box 368
Parsons WV 26287
Phone: (304) 478-2000

From Elkins take US Route 33 east for approximately 4 miles. Turn north on WV 33/8 (old US Route 33) and follow signs. Turn north on WV Route 6 and drive 1/2 mile to the entrance.

Constructed in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Stuart Recreation Area is nestled in the mountains of West Virginia along the Shavers Fork River. The area is open yearly from mid-May through mid-October.

Hiking: There is a hiking trail in the recreation area: River Loop Trail - #119 which is 2 miles in length. a

Fishing: Fishing is allowed in the Shavers Fork River. A state fishing license, National Forest Stamp, and trout stamp are required. Please contact the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources for more information on fishing and hunting licensing requirements.

Camping: It is available at the Stuart Campground. Each campsite has a parking spur, table, fire ring, tent pad, lantern holder, and electric hookup. There are 26 campsites available with 8 persons per site and 1 double site.

All campsites are suitable for both tent and trailer camping and can accommodate a 53-foot tow/vehicle combination. A shower facility is available.

A large grassy area for group tent camping is located just north of the entrance on State Route 6. It is open mid-May through mid-October and has picnic tables, fire rings, accessible vault toilets, and a hand pump for water.

Picnic Area: Each picnic site has a table, grill, and waste receptacle.

Pavilions: You can reserve three pavilions - the large electric, small non-electric, and the Alpena - available for family outings. Pavilion reservations may be made online or by calling (877)444-6777. Pavilion reservations must be made at least 5 days prior to your arrival or can be made 360 days in advance.

Other: There is a large playing field for volleyball and horseshoe games.

Stuart Memorial Drive (Forest Road 91) offers a 10.7 miles scenic graveled road that can be driven in a passenger car in good weather. It is located just north of the entrance to the recreation area and ends on Shavers Mountain at US Route 33. The road travels past the Bear Heaven Campground and follows along a portion of the Otter Creek Wilderness. Access to trailheads for the Condon Run Trail, Middle Point Trail, and Shavers Mountain Trail are possible from this road. It also provides access to the Bickle Knob Observation Tower.

There is a fee to enter the day use recreation area for vehicles with up to five occupants. The day use fee is waived for those reserving the pavilions. In addition, there is a charge for renting the pavilions and camping. A seasonal day use pass is available.

Individual picnic sites are not reservable.

Pavilion reservations may be made online or by calling (877)444-6777. Pavilion reservations must be made at least 4 days prior to your arrival or can be made 360 days in advance.

Camping reservations for Stuart Campground sites 7-15 can be made online or by calling (877)444-6777. Camping reservations must be made at least 5 days prior to your arrival or can be made 240 days in advance.

Notes: All dogs must be leashed. This area is operated under permit by American Land and Leisure (304)567-2415.

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