Jess Judy

The Jess Judy Group Campground is located on the South Branch of the Potomac River, in West Virginia's eastern panhandle, about 1.5 miles south of Big Bend. Canoeing, fishing and hiking are popular activities. About 1.3 million visitors come to the Monongahela National Forest each year, and it's no surprise why: the forest is a drivable distance from cities like Washington D.C. and Pittsburgh, yet the density of flora, fauna and picturesque mountains seem like a world away from any city. Visitors enjoy canoeing and fishing on the river, and hiking on local trails. Thirty miles of maintained trails can be found nearby and mountain biking is permitted on most of them. One highly recommended trail for hikers and backpackers is the North Fork Mountain Trail. Jess Judy contains three primitive reservable group sites that will accommodate up to 40 people each. The campground has fire rings, picnic tables, lantern posts and four single-unit vault toilets, which are accessible. There is no electricity or drinking water at the group campground, so please bring your own supply, although campers may obtain water at Big Bend Campground. The group campground is not accessible. Jess Judy is situated in the northern portion of the Monongahela National Forest, on the western banks of the river. The region boasts beautiful old-growth forests that become vibrant with color in fall. The South Branch of the Potomac River runs north through Smoke Hole Canyon, which bears a name of uncertain origin. One theory is that Native Americans once used the caves in the canyon for smoking meat, which created "smoke holes." Another is that misty fog often lies along the river and ascends in what looks like smoke from a hole. Traverse through narrow, steep valleys and over rolling, tree-topped mountains on the Highland Scenic Highway. This 43-mile drive includes highlights like Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Summit Lake, and the Falls of Hills Creek.