Blue Bend Campground

For West Virginians seeking an idyllic blend of refreshing water, scenic trails, and comfortable camping, Blue Bend Campground in Frankford is a true gem. Nestled within the expansive Monongahela National Forest, this beloved recreation area offers a quintessential outdoor experience, centered around its famous "swimming hole" on Anthony Creek. It's a place where families can create cherished memories, hikers can explore lush landscapes, and campers can unwind in a serene natural setting.

Blue Bend is more than just a campground; it's a vibrant hub for outdoor activity and relaxation. Known for its clear, inviting waters, the swimming hole provides a perfect escape from summer heat, while the surrounding forest offers ample opportunities for hiking and picnicking. The campground itself is thoughtfully equipped, providing essential amenities that make your stay both enjoyable and convenient, whether you're planning a day trip or an extended camping adventure.

The charm of Blue Bend lies in its authenticity and the simple pleasures it offers. It's a place where the sounds of rushing water and chirping birds replace the urban hum, inviting visitors to reconnect with nature. The variety of activities available, from leisurely swims to challenging hikes, ensures there's something for every age and interest, making it a highly adaptable destination for diverse groups of locals.

Moreover, its historical significance, having been developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, adds a layer of character to the rustic setting. The enduring appeal of Blue Bend testifies to its timeless quality as a premier outdoor recreation area in West Virginia.

Blue Bend Campground is conveniently located in Frankford, WV 24938, USA. This places it within the beautiful Monongahela National Forest, a vast and treasured natural resource in eastern West Virginia. For many West Virginians, especially those in the southern and eastern parts of the state, accessing Blue Bend is a straightforward and scenic drive.

To reach the campground from White Sulphur Springs, you would typically travel 8 miles north on State Route 92, then turn left (west) at Alvon onto State Route 16, and continue for approximately 4 miles to the recreation area. The well-maintained routes lead directly to the campground, ensuring easy access for vehicles of all sizes, including those towing trailers.

The setting along Anthony Creek provides a picturesque backdrop, and its location within the National Forest means visitors are immediately immersed in a rich natural environment. While offering a sense of seclusion, Blue Bend is not overly remote, allowing for convenient day visits as well as overnight stays. Its position makes it a fantastic destination for locals looking for an escape that is both within reach and genuinely wild. The moderate elevation of approximately 1,860 feet contributes to a pleasant wooded valley setting, facing Round Mountain, offering comfortable conditions for outdoor activities throughout much of the year.

• 21 Individual Campsites (Blue Bend Loop): These sites are suitable for both tent and trailer camping (except for 4 walk-in sites) and each includes a picnic table, fire grate, waste receptacle, and lantern post. Maximum of 8 campers per site.
• Seasonal Flush Toilets: Available in the camping areas during the summer months (typically May to October).
• Vault Toilets: Accessible during the spring and fall seasons when flush toilets are closed.
• Drinking Water: Available through a system open from May to October. Hand pumps are available during the spring and fall. Several water fountains are located throughout the area.
• Swimming Hole: An authentic "swimming hole" on Anthony Creek with clear water, suitable for all ages, including a large shallow area for smaller children and deeper pools for more adventurous swimmers.
• Picnic Areas: 25 picnic units are available, each with a table, fire grate, and waste receptacle.
• Group Picnic Shelters: Two rustic shelters are available, one large (accommodates 75 people) and one smaller, both with fireplaces and picnic tables. The large shelter is reservable in peak season.
• Hiking Trails: Access to trails like the 5-mile Blue Bend Loop Trail (with three scenic overlooks and a trail shelter) and the Anthony Creek Trail.
• Fishing: Opportunities for trout fishing in Anthony Creek.
• Playground: A small playground area is available for children, enhancing its family-friendly appeal.
• Parking: Convenience of nearby parking for day-use and campground access.

• Authentic "Swimming Hole": The most celebrated feature, offering clear, refreshing water on Anthony Creek with plenty of room for swimming, wading, and relaxing. It's usually not too crowded, providing a serene experience.
• Historic Charm: Developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1936-1938, the recreation area retains its "designed rustic" character with rustic wood tables and shelters, adding a unique historical appeal.
• Well-Equipped Campsites: The 21 campsites in the Blue Bend Loop are well-appointed with essential amenities like picnic tables, fire grates, and lantern posts, enhancing comfort for campers.
• Diverse Hiking Opportunities: Offers access to well-maintained trails like the Blue Bend Loop Trail, which provides scenic overlooks and is often recently cleaned up, making it easier to navigate. It also connects to the Anthony Creek Trail and provides access to the Big Draft Wilderness.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: With a large shallow area in the swimming hole for children, picnic areas, and a small playground, it’s an ideal spot for families to spend a day or an extended camping trip.
• Convenient Facilities: The availability of seasonal flush toilets, drinking water, and group picnic shelters adds significant comfort and convenience, especially for longer stays and larger gatherings.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Located in a pleasant, wooded valley facing Round Mountain within the vast Monongahela National Forest, providing a picturesque backdrop for all outdoor activities and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Fishing Opportunities: Anglers can enjoy fishing for trout in Anthony Creek, adding another recreational dimension.
• First-Come, First-Served and Reservable Options: While many individual sites are first-come, first-served, some specific sites and the large group pavilion can be reserved, offering flexibility for planning.

Address: Frankford, WV 24938, USA

Phone: (304) 635-3961 (Please note this is the Monongahela National Forest's main recreation information line or the White Sulphur Ranger District phone number, which handles inquiries for Blue Bend.)

Mobile Phone: +1 304-635-3961

For specific campsite availability (especially for first-come, first-served sites), group shelter reservations, or the most up-to-date information on seasonal closures and conditions, it is always recommended to call the provided number or visit the official Monongahela National Forest website. Reservations for the large group pavilion and some campsites can often be made through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

Blue Bend Campground is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for West Virginians seeking a multifaceted outdoor experience. Its prime location in Frankford, within the beloved Monongahela National Forest, offers a convenient and accessible escape into the state's natural beauty without requiring extensive travel for many residents. This ease of access makes it perfect for quick weekend getaways, day trips, or extended family vacations.

The campground’s standout feature, its "authentic swimming hole" on Anthony Creek, provides a unique and refreshing draw, especially during West Virginia's warm summers. This natural swimming spot, combined with ample room for picnicking and relaxing by the water, creates an ideal setting for families to cool off and enjoy quality time together. The clear water and the presence of both shallow and deeper areas cater to all ages and swimming abilities.

Beyond the swimming, Blue Bend offers a robust array of activities that appeal to various interests. The well-maintained hiking trails, like the Blue Bend Loop, provide opportunities for exercise and scenic exploration, allowing locals to immerse themselves in the region's lush forests and discover picturesque overlooks. For those who enjoy fishing, Anthony Creek is known for its trout, adding another layer of recreational enjoyment.

The thoughtful amenities at the campsites, including picnic tables, fire grates, and lantern posts, ensure a comfortable camping experience, whether you're bringing a tent or a small trailer. The availability of seasonal flush toilets and drinking water significantly enhances convenience, making Blue Bend a more comfortable choice compared to more primitive sites. Furthermore, the presence of group picnic shelters and a small playground underscores its family-friendly nature, providing spaces for large gatherings and entertainment for children.

Blue Bend Campground embodies the spirit of West Virginia's outdoor heritage, offering a blend of natural charm, recreational diversity, and practical amenities. For locals, it represents an accessible and endlessly enjoyable destination to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and fully appreciate the beauty of their home state.