Bolar Mountain Campground #3

Welcome, fellow Virginians, to an in-depth look at a true gem in our state’s vast natural landscape: Bolar Mountain Campground #3. If you’re yearning for an escape into the embrace of the great outdoors, a place where the air is fresh, the water is clear, and the sounds of nature are your only companions, then this destination near Covington, VA, should be at the top of your list. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vibrant recreation area offering a diverse range of activities for every type of outdoor enthusiast, from seasoned campers to families looking for a memorable weekend getaway.

Bolar Mountain Campground #3 is more than just a campsite; it’s a gateway to the stunning George Washington and Jefferson National Forest and the beautiful Lake Moomaw. It's a place where relaxation meets adventure, where you can disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with what truly matters. Whether you're planning a peaceful solo retreat, a romantic getaway, or a fun-filled family vacation, this campground provides the perfect backdrop. Visitors consistently rave about the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of the surroundings, making it a highly recommended spot for anyone seeking tranquility and natural splendor. As one satisfied camper put it, "This place is awesome! I had a great time with my family." Another enthusiastically declared, "Can't wait to go camping here." These sentiments perfectly capture the appeal of Bolar Mountain Campground #3 – a place that invites you to return again and again.

Nestled conveniently in Covington, VA 24426, USA, Bolar Mountain Campground #3 is situated within the expansive Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, which is part of the larger George Washington and Jefferson National Forest. This prime location offers easy accessibility for residents across Virginia, making it an ideal choice for a relatively short drive to a complete change of scenery. The campground itself is located along the southern shore of the magnificent 2,530-acre Lake Moomaw, providing stunning lakeside views and direct access to its clear waters. While the area is known for its serene, off-the-grid feel, offering a welcome break from constant connectivity, it remains easily reachable by passenger car. For those looking to arrive by boat, certain sites are also boat-in accessible, adding an extra layer of adventure to your arrival. The combination of its national forest setting and proximity to Lake Moomaw ensures that visitors can fully immerse themselves in a natural environment without feeling completely isolated. It's truly a testament to Virginia's diverse landscapes, offering a mountain and lake experience within a manageable driving distance for many.

When you choose Bolar Mountain Campground #3 for your next outdoor adventure, you'll find a comprehensive array of services designed to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

• Campsite Variety: The campground boasts 140 individual campsites, divided into three loops, with Campground #3 being one of them. Many sites, particularly in Campground 1, offer electric hookups, making it suitable for both tent and RV campers. Each individual campsite is thoughtfully equipped with essential amenities for a pleasant camping experience.

• Provided Amenities: Every campsite typically includes a sturdy picnic table, a lantern post for evening illumination, and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking up your favorite camping meals and enjoying crackling fires under the stars.

• Water Access: Potable drinking water taps are conveniently located throughout the campground, ensuring easy access to fresh water during your stay.

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: For your comfort, flush toilets and showers are available, providing a welcome convenience after a day of outdoor activities.

• RV Dump Stations: RV campers will appreciate the availability of sanitary dump stations located at Campground 1 and Campground 2, making waste disposal hassle-free.

• Reservations: While some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, most can be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. Reservations can typically be made up to six months ahead for standard sites and up to 12 months for group sites, with a minimum two-day advance booking required.

• Day Use Area: The recreation area also offers a day-use area with operational hours from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. when open for the season.

Bolar Mountain Campground #3 and the surrounding Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offer an abundance of features and highlights that make it a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Virginia.

• Lake Moomaw Access: The crown jewel of the area is Lake Moomaw, a stunning 2,530-acre man-made lake. It's a hub for water activities, including swimming at designated beaches, boating (motorized and non-motorized, with boat ramp access at Bolar Flat Marina), canoeing, kayaking, and even water skiing. The lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, with anglers commonly reeling in Steelhead, Brown and Rainbow Trout, Bass, Catfish, and Panfish. Fishing is accessible from the shore, by boat, or from the ADA-accessible fishing pier.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: For those who prefer to explore on foot, Bolar Mountain boasts 11 miles of scenic hiking trails. These trails cater to various difficulty levels and lead to breathtaking vistas, including the impressive Islands Overlook Spur and Grouse Point Overlook, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Popular trails include the Bolar Loop Trail, Bolar Picnic Trail Spur, Island Overlook Spur Trail, and Roadside Trail.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: Beyond camping, the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers a playground for children and a volleyball court, ensuring entertainment for all ages.

• Wildlife Viewing: The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including 60 species of mammals and 200 species of birds, providing ample opportunities for nature viewing and birdwatching.

• Picnicking: Numerous picnicking sites are available throughout the recreation area, perfect for day visitors or campers looking for an alternative dining spot. There's also a group picnic shelter available at the Bolar Mountain Day use area.

• Scenic Beauty: The campground sits amidst mostly Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests, offering lush greenery and vibrant fall colors. The forested shoreline of Lake Moomaw further enhances the picturesque setting.

While specific, ongoing promotional offers for Bolar Mountain Campground #3 can vary and are often managed through the Recreation.gov booking platform, there are certain consistent discounts and opportunities for savings that visitors should be aware of.

One notable promotion is the acceptance of the America the Beautiful Senior and Access Passes. These passes provide a generous 50% discount on the base campsite fee (though not on hookups) and also apply to the day-use fee. This is a significant benefit for eligible visitors, making a trip to Bolar Mountain even more affordable. It's important to note that while these passes are widely accepted, other America the Beautiful Interagency passes may not be valid at this particular site, so it’s always best to verify before your visit.

Campground fees for standard sites typically range from $16 to $37 per night, depending on the specific site and amenities. Group sites are available for a flat rate of $165 per night, offering a cost-effective option for larger gatherings. The day-use fee is generally $5. To get the most up-to-date information on availability, specific site fees, and any temporary promotions, it is always recommended to check the Recreation.gov website directly, as this is the primary platform for reservations and detailed fee information. Planning your trip and booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure your preferred site and take advantage of any available discounts.

For those planning their visit or needing to get in touch with Bolar Mountain Campground #3 or the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, here is the essential contact information:

Address: Covington, VA 24426, USA

While the address provided is Covington, VA 24426, for more precise navigation and general inquiries about the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, it’s helpful to know that the main office for the George Washington & Jefferson National Forests - James River and Warm Springs Ranger District is located nearby.

Physical Address (James River and Warm Springs Ranger District Office): 422 Forestry Road Hot Springs, VA 24445

Phone Number: The primary contact number for Bolar Mountain Campgrounds and the Recreation Area is generally +1 540-279-4144. For reservations specifically, you can also use the Recreation.gov general reservation line at 877-444-6777.

Operational Hours (James River and Warm Springs Ranger District Office): Monday - Friday; 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on federal holidays)

Please remember that while the Recreation Area itself has day-use hours, the campground operates on its own seasonal schedule, with Campground 1 typically open from late March through early December, and Campgrounds 2 and 3 opening early May and closing after Labor Day. It's always a good idea to confirm specific operating dates and hours before your visit, especially if you are traveling during shoulder seasons.

Bolar Mountain Campground #3 truly stands out as an ideal destination for Virginia locals seeking an authentic and enriching outdoor experience. Its prime location within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, coupled with its direct access to the magnificent Lake Moomaw, offers a diverse range of activities that cater to all ages and interests. For families, the combination of swimming beaches, a playground, and ample space for exploration makes it a perfect setting for creating lasting memories. The availability of both tent and RV sites, along with essential amenities like potable water, flush toilets, and showers, ensures a comfortable stay regardless of your camping style.

Beyond the tangible features, Bolar Mountain Campground #3 offers the invaluable opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility. The limited cell service, while requiring some prior planning for trail information, encourages a deeper connection with your surroundings and companions. Whether you're casting a line into the well-stocked Lake Moomaw, navigating its serene waters by boat or kayak, or traversing the 11 miles of scenic hiking trails to discover breathtaking overlooks, the options for adventure are endless. The glowing reviews from previous visitors, praising the "awesome" experience and expressing eagerness to return, underscore the campground's appeal. It's not just a place to visit; it’s a place to return to year after year, offering a reliable and refreshing escape that is both accessible and profoundly rewarding for residents of Virginia. Come discover why Bolar Mountain Campground #3 is the perfect backdrop for your next Virginia outdoor adventure.