Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
4.09162 reviews756 Twin Ridge Drive
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area
$16.00 - $85.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$21.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$37.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00
Group Site Fee$85.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 for tent-only non-electric sites to $85 for group sites during peak season. Additional reservation fees may apply depending on the booking method.
About this campground
Escape to Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, where the crystal-clear waters of Lake Moomaw meet the forested slopes of the Appalachians. This hidden gem offers an authentic wilderness experience with excellent fishing, peaceful paddling, scenic hiking trails, and refreshing swimming spots. Choose from cozy individual campsites nestled among the trees or gather your crew for memorable group camping adventures. With no cell service to interrupt your connection with nature, Bolar Mountain provides the perfect setting for unplugging from the digital world and reconnecting with what matters most.
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent, RV, group, and walk-in sites.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the sprawling 1.8-million-acre George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, this area tells a story of conservation and community. The majestic Lake Moomaw, born from the construction of Gathright Dam in the 1980s, transformed this valley into a recreational paradise while serving its vital role in flood control. Today, the protected forests surrounding the lake harbor incredible biodiversity, from ancient tree species to abundant wildlife that have called these mountains home for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, punctuated by refreshing afternoon thundershowers that cool the mountain air. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and comfortable temperatures, while early autumn paints the hillsides in brilliant golds and crimsons. These shoulder seasons offer ideal camping conditions with crisp mornings, pleasant afternoons, and cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings.
ElevationPerched in the heart of the Appalachian highlands, the campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where cool breezes sweep down from the ridges and morning mist dances across the lake. The mountainous terrain creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, with elevations typical of this ancient range providing spectacular vantage points and a refreshing escape from lowland heat.
Natural Features and SceneryPositioned along the pristine northern shores of Lake Moomaw, the campground is embraced by a tapestry of Appalachian mixed pine-hardwood forests that change with the seasons. The spectacular 2,530-acre lake, held by the impressive Gathright Dam, winds through the mountains for 43 miles of unspoiled, wooded shoreline. Towering oaks and pines frame water views, while mountain laurel and rhododendron create natural privacy between campsites. The interplay of water, forest, and mountain creates endless opportunities for photography, wildlife watching, and simple moments of awe.
Geological RegionSet within the ancient Appalachian Mountains in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, the campground showcases the region's distinctive geology of weathered peaks and verdant valleys. The surrounding mixed pine-hardwood forests reflect millions of years of evolution, while Lake Moomaw represents a modern addition to this timeless landscape. This unique combination of pristine mountain wilderness and engineered lake creates a recreational wonderland where rugged mountain terrain meets accessible water-based adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include well-maintained restrooms and flat, spacious sites. Some users highlight challenges for handicapped visitors due to dock closures: 'Dock was removed; it was a struggle getting elderly mother into the boat.'
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some noted as spacious and accommodating: 'Some of the largest campsites I've ever seen.'
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer a mix of privacy levels. Prime sites near the lake are less secluded, whereas wooded sites are more private.
Total Campsites200 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and direct access to the lake, choose premium sites in Loop 2. Tent campers should avoid crowded areas during peak weekends.
Best CampsitesPremium lakefront sites such as Loop 2, Site 51, and Loop 2, Site 53 are highly rated for their direct lake access and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum within a month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site.
Groups
Group campsites accommodate up to 85 people and are priced at $85 per night during the peak season.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into several loops including Campground 1, 2, 3, and Sugar Ridge. Each loop has varying levels of amenities including lakefront sites and access to potable water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May to September with reservations starting in late June; the campground closes after Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov both through their website and mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAdditional first-come, first-served sites may be available, but reservations are recommended to secure a spot.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies for changes or cancellations made prior to the check-in date. Late cancellations will forfeit the first night’s fee.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The recreation area offers a diverse range of activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, swimming, and water sports. Hiking trails lead to scenic overlooks, such as Grouse Point and Islands Overlook. Fishing opportunities include brown trout, rainbow trout, bass, and crappie in Lake Moomaw. Popular boating activities include canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. A beach is available for swimming, although rocky shores are noted.
Hiking
11 miles of hiking trails are available, leading to scenic overlooks like Islands Overlook Spur and Grouse Point. Trails vary in difficulty, with some described as easy and accessible: 'Hiking along Cranberry Glades was excellent.'Fishing
Fishing is permitted, with common catches including brown trout, rainbow trout, bass, and crappie. One user remarked, 'The lake is beautiful for fishing.'Swimming
Swimming areas are available, particularly near the beach. Depths are reportedly kid-friendly, staying around 6 feet. 'Beach area is surreal, surrounded by mountains,' one user noted.Biking
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area provides biking trails, such as the Greenbrier River Trail, which runs 10 miles to a bridge and Sharps Tunnel. Terrain is suitable for moderate skill levels.Boating
Boating activities include canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. A boat ramp is located at Bolar Flat Marina, equipped with modern docks and boat slips. However, damages to docks have been reported, affecting accessibility.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with 60 mammal species and 200 bird species protected within the national forest. 'The lake and mountains are awesome as usual,' wrote one user.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming and sunbathing. Shores are rocky, requiring water shoes for comfort. 'Beach area stays around 6 feet deep, very kid-friendly,' one review stated.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed for this campground.Water Sports
Water sports include canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. 'Bring your boat; water is amazing and clean!' wrote one user.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings; firewood should be locally sourced.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsRisk of wildlife encounters, including bears; steep roads like Richardson Gorge Rd. are hazardous for towing vehicles.
Active alertsOccasional closures of facilities such as bathhouses and marina; intermittent potable water issues due to maintenance.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7 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
Emergency Services
The nearest emergency services include Warm Springs for essential amenities and hospitals, and local police services are available.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 7 to September 3.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available at each campground. Recycling facilities are lacking, as noted by some reviewers: 'There is no recycling provided.'
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Lake Moomaw, with boat ramps and fishing areas available.
Common complaintsComplaints include noisy campers, poor maintenance of facilities, lack of potable water, and disruptive behavior during peak seasons.
HostCamp hosts are available to assist campers, though reviews report inconsistent presence and staffing.
Campground Map
756 Twin Ridge Drive
Driving directionsFrom Covington, take 220 North to Hwy 39 and turn left on Hwy 39. Take Hwy 39 to Hwy 600 (Bolars Draft Road) and turn left on Hwy 600 towards the campgrounds. After about 7.5 miles turn right on Twin Ridge Drive for all campgrounds. Stay straight to head towards the store & marina, an overlook of the lake and McClintic Point. GPS often routes vehicles to take Richardson Gorge Rd. via the Jackson River Tpk. This route is NOT SUGGESTED for travel, especially when towing. It's a narrow dirt road with steep soft edges. Multiple accidents occur on this road each year.
The campground is accessible by paved roads except for Richardson Gorge Rd., which is a narrow dirt road with steep soft edges and is not recommended for travel, particularly for towing vehicles.Nearby places
Covington (approx. 20 miles), Hot Springs (approx. 45 miles), Marlinton (approx. 40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be found in Warm Springs, with limited essentials available at Mountain Grove Store near the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.1
162 reviews
Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight the scenic beauty and recreation opportunities but also emphasize maintenance issues and inconsistent customer service.
Review Summaries
Based on 162 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, beautiful lake views, spacious campsites, and friendly camp hosts: 'Camp hosts were phenomenal this year!'
Based on 162 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on maintenance problems, seasonal closures, and lack of management: 'Bathrooms/showers were closed and replaced with disgusting portalets.'
Based on 162 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing all necessities due to limited local stores, avoiding GPS routes through Richardson Gorge, and reserving premium lakefront sites early.
Based on 162 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews vary by season, with summer being described as lively but occasionally overcrowded. Fall is favored for its foliage but marred by early closures.
Based on 162 reviewsCamper Quotes
'This place has some of the largest campsites I've ever seen.' 'Bring your boat; water is amazing and clean!' 'Portable toilets were disgusting.'
Based on 162 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #51 in Loop 2 is highlighted as a premium lakefront site with direct water access. Site #32 in Loop 1 offers consistent Verizon cell service.
Based on 162 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews mention challenges for elderly and handicapped visitors due to dock closures: 'It was a struggle getting elderly mother into the boat.'
Based on 162 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but leash rules are inconsistently enforced: 'Dogs allowed running loose on the beach.'
Based on 162 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025