Jess Judy Group Campground
04 reviewsJess Judy Group Campground
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$50 per night fee, with an additional charge for each vehicle after the 10th vehicle.
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About this campground
Nestled in the heart of West Virginia's rugged wilderness, this secluded primitive group campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience along the pristine waters of the South Branch of the Potomac River. Perfect for adventurous groups seeking to disconnect from the modern world, the campground provides direct river access where the gentle rush of water creates a natural soundtrack to your outdoor escape. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or gathering around the campfire under a canopy of stars, this riverside retreat promises memories that will last a lifetime.
The campground explicitly supports primitive group camping with a maximum capacity of 40 people per site. Other camping types like RVs, tents, and cabins are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceThe Smoke Hole Canyon has witnessed centuries of human history, from Native American hunting grounds to early European settlers who navigated these mountain passes. Local legends speak of moonshiners who once used the remote canyon's caves and hidden hollows, giving the area its evocative name. Today, visitors can still sense the frontier spirit that defines this untamed corner of Appalachia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of four distinct seasons in this mountain sanctuary. Spring brings wildflowers and excellent water levels for paddling, while summer offers warm days perfect for river activities and cool mountain evenings. Fall transforms the canyon into a spectacular display of autumn colors, and winter reveals the stark beauty of the landscape, though access may be limited during heavy snow periods.
ElevationSituated in the dramatic river valley carved deep into the Appalachian Mountains, the campground rests at a moderate elevation where mountain air meets river mist. The surrounding peaks rise dramatically from the water's edge, creating a natural amphitheater that shelters campers while offering spectacular views of the ancient ridgelines above.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Branch of the Potomac River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters teeming with smallmouth bass and native trout that draw anglers from across the region. Towering cliffs and weathered rock formations frame the river corridor, while dense forests of oak, hickory, and pine provide shade and wildlife habitat. Morning mists often blanket the water, creating ethereal scenes as the sun climbs over the canyon walls. Paddlers will find everything from peaceful pools perfect for beginners to exciting riffles that challenge more experienced canoeists.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Smoke Hole Canyon, this campground occupies one of the most geologically fascinating areas of the Monongahela National Forest. The South Branch of the Potomac has carved its way through ancient Appalachian bedrock over millions of years, exposing dramatic limestone cliffs and creating a serpentine gorge that showcases the raw power of water and time. This rugged terrain, part of the greater Appalachian Mountain system, offers visitors a glimpse into the Earth's deep history while providing endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit details are available regarding accessibility features.
Sites SizeNo explicit details are available regarding the size of individual sites.
Sites PrivacyNo explicit details are available concerning site privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum length of stay is 14 days. .Pets must be on.
Guests Allowed Per Site
40 people
Groups
Each site supports up to 40 people per official sources. Additional details about the number of vehicles or the general layout of the group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonApril-Late October.
Reservation Platformsnull
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.
Activities you can enjoy
Jess Judy Group Campground is highly suitable for outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and canoeing. The South Branch Potomac River offers rich opportunities for fishing and canoeing, while the nearby North Fork Mountain Trail supports hiking and biking.
Hiking
The campground is situated near the North Fork Mountain Trail, which is suitable for day hikes and mountain biking. Specific trail details, such as length or difficulty, are not provided.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are plentiful along the South Branch Potomac River adjacent to the campground, although specific fish species and conditions are unmentioned.Biking
Mountain biking is available on the North Fork Mountain Trail near the campground, but further specifics are not provided.Boating
The South Branch Potomac River near the campground supports canoeing. Additional specifics about other boating activities are not provided.Winter Activities
No details about winter activities are provided.Water Sports
No details about non-motorized water sports are mentioned beyond canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
No explicit mention of the nearest emergency services such as hospitals or ranger stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to the South Branch of the Potomac River, with opportunities for fishing and canoeing.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFollow 28/55 from Petersburg, WV, for 8 miles. Turn left onto the Smoke Hole Road, Route 28/11, and travel for 13 miles to County Route 2. Turn left onto the Smoke Hole Road, County Route 2, and follow for approximately 2 miles. Jess Judy Campground will be on your right. Alternatively, follow US Route 220 from Petersburg, WV to the Upper Tract Bridge at County Route 2. Take a right at the Bridge and follow for 9 miles to the campground, which will be located on the right.
Accessible via paved routes, though County Route 2 is remote and rural. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Petersburg, WV (approximately 20 miles)
Nearby supplies
No information on grocery stores, camping supplies, or fuel available nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Jess Judy Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Jess Judy Group Campground as a secluded and charming location, particularly favored for its proximity to the Potomac River and recreational opportunities. Visitors appreciate its remote nature and the friendly attitudes of campground caretakers.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the secluded nature of the campground, its proximity to recreational activities on the Potomac River, and the friendly demeanor of caretakers.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
No negative reviews were explicitly mentioned in the provided sources.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Ensure to bring water and plan for absence of restroom facilities due to the primitive nature of the campground.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No seasonal trends are explicitly identified in the user reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great secluded group camping spots along the south branch Potomac." - Erin Graf. "AWESOME CAMP GROUNDS!!!! Care takers of the grounds do visit but are very nice so long as you're being respectful."...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specifically mentioning particular campsites by number are provided.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews explicitly addressing accessibility features are present.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No detailed user reviews specifically related to pet experiences were included in the source.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025