$10/night

Description: Constructed in the 1930′s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Blue Bend is in a rustic and beautiful setting along scenic Anthony Creek. The area serves both campers and daytime visitors, and is popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicking.

Location: Located on State Route 16, near Alvon, West Virginia.

Directions: From White Sulphur Springs, travel 8 miles north on State Route 92. Turn left (west) at Alvon, West Virginia, onto State Route 16. Travel 4 miles to the recreation area.

Camping: There are two camping loops in the recreation area. Blue Bend Loop has 21 campsites and Blue Meadow Group Camping Loop has 19 campsites, including 4 walk-in sites. Each site has a table, fire grate, waste receptacle, lantern post and a parking spur. All campsites are suitable for both tent and trailer camping except for the 4 walk-in sites. The maximum number of campers per site is 8. Blue Meadow is a group camping site. There are no hook-ups provided (sewage, water, or electric). Flush toilets with running water are located in the camping areas. However, in the winter, only vault toilets are open for use. Blue Meadow has vault toilets, but no drinking water. Drinking water is available at Blue Bend. Several water fountains are located throughout Blue Bend.

Fishing: Blue Bend is a popular fishing area. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources stocks Anthony Creek with trout from January through May and in October. The nearby Greenbrier River is fished for trout and bass. A state fishing license and National Forest Stamp is required and if you are fishing for trout a trout stamp is needed.

Hiking and Biking: All hiking trails are open to biking as well. Most of these trails were constructed in the 1930′s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Anthony Creek Trail follows the creek in a narrow valley filled with rhododendron and many flowering forest trees. Blue Bend Loop Trail offers three scenic overlooks and has a trail shelter for overnight use. The South Boundary Trail travels from the beautiful Greenbrier River, fords Anthony Creek, then winds through mountains along the forest’s southern boundary. The Beaver’s Tale Braille plaques along its route invite the visitor to explore this unique river-bottom site.

Picnicking: There are 25 picnic units in Blue Bend. Each unit contains a table, fire grate and waste receptacle. Two rustic picnic shelters, each with a fireplace and picnic table is also available. The large shelter may be reserved for group outings and family reunions. A swinging bridge across Anthony Creek connects the picnic areas on opposite sides of the creek.