US Forestry Department

- 7368 Bolars Draft Rd, Warm Springs, VA 24484

For Virginians yearning for a refreshing escape into the heart of our state's stunning natural landscapes, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area offers an exceptional camping and outdoor experience. Managed by the US Forest Service within the magnificent George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, this area is much more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a vibrant hub of activity centered around the pristine waters of Lake Moomaw. If you're someone who loves the outdoors and believes in conserving our beautiful natural spaces, Bolar Mountain is a destination that truly delivers on all fronts.

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area strikes a perfect balance between providing essential amenities and maintaining a serene, natural environment. It's renowned for its well-maintained campgrounds and direct access to Lake Moomaw, one of Virginia's largest and most inviting lakes. Whether your idea of a perfect day involves casting a line for trout, paddling across calm waters, exploring scenic hiking trails, or simply relaxing by a campfire, this area offers something for everyone. It’s a place where families can create cherished memories, friends can reconnect with nature, and solo adventurers can find peace and solitude amidst breathtaking scenery.

Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep of the facilities, a testament to the dedication of the US Forest Service. With a variety of camping options, from primitive tent sites to those with electric hookups for RVs, Bolar Mountain ensures that diverse camping styles can be accommodated. It truly embodies the spirit of Virginia's great outdoors, providing a welcoming and well-equipped base for your next adventure.

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is conveniently located at 7368 Bolars Draft Rd, Warm Springs, VA 24484, USA, deep within the scenic George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Bath County, Virginia. This region is celebrated for its lush forests, rolling mountains, and abundant waterways, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts from across the Commonwealth.

Accessing Bolar Mountain is generally straightforward, though a common piece of advice from experienced campers is to plan your route carefully. From Covington, travelers typically take US Route 220 North to Virginia Highway 39, then turn left onto Route 39. From there, a left turn onto Route 600 (Bolars Draft Road) will lead you toward the campgrounds. It's important to note that some GPS systems might suggest taking Richardson Gorge Road via the Jackson River Turnpike; however, this route is strongly discouraged, especially when towing, as it's known to be a narrow, unimproved dirt road with steep, soft edges where accidents can occur. Sticking to the paved routes, particularly VA 39 to VA 600, is the recommended approach for a safer and more comfortable journey.

Upon arrival, you'll find that Bolar Mountain’s location on the northern end of Lake Moomaw is a significant advantage. The recreation area provides direct access to the lake, which spans 2,530 acres along the Jackson River, offering 43 miles of undeveloped shoreline. This strategic placement ensures that a wide array of water-based activities are immediately available, making the transition from travel to recreation seamless. While the area offers a sense of remote tranquility, it remains reasonably accessible for a rewarding outdoor getaway within Virginia.

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area, managed by the US Forest Service, provides a comprehensive array of services designed to enhance the camping experience for a variety of visitors, from tent campers to RV enthusiasts. The focus is on providing necessary comforts while maintaining the integrity of the natural environment.

• Diverse Campsites: The recreation area features approximately 140 campsites, divided into three loops (Sugar Ridge, Campground 1, Campground 2, and Campground 3). These include options for both tent and RV camping, with some sites offering electric hookups, predominantly in Campground 1, followed by Campgrounds 2 and 3.

• Campsite Amenities: Each individual campsite is well-equipped with a picnic table, a lantern post, and a fire ring with a grill, making it easy to set up camp and enjoy meals outdoors.

• Potable Water: Potable water taps are conveniently located throughout each campground loop, ensuring easy access to drinking water for all campers.

• Modern Restrooms: The campground boasts flush toilets and hot showers, a welcome amenity that significantly enhances comfort for campers.

• Dump Stations: For RV campers, two dump stations are available (at Campground 1 and Campground 2) for convenient waste disposal.

• Camp Hosts: A dedicated Camp Host is often on-site in each campground to answer questions, address concerns, and assist campers, adding a layer of helpful support.

• Group Camping: Specific group sites are available for larger gatherings of family and friends, perfect for reunions or organized outdoor events.

• Day Use Area: The Bolar Mountain Recreation Area also includes day-use facilities with group picnic shelters, ideal for those visiting for just a few hours of lake access and outdoor enjoyment.

• Little to No Cell Service: Visitors should be prepared for limited to no cell service within the recreation area, which many consider a feature, encouraging a true disconnection from digital distractions.

Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is rich with natural features and recreational highlights that make it a standout destination for outdoor lovers in Virginia.

• Lake Moomaw: The crown jewel of the area is Lake Moomaw, a 2,530-acre man-made lake with 43 miles of undeveloped shoreline. This pristine cold-water lake is perfect for a wide range of water activities.

• Boating and Water Sports: The lake is ideal for motorized and non-motorized boating, including canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. Bolar Flat Marina provides a modern dock with boat slips and a boat ramp for easy lake access.

• Exceptional Fishing: Anglers flock to Lake Moomaw for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a diverse population of brown and rainbow trout, bass, and crappie. Back Creek, nearby, is also noted for good trout fishing.

• Inviting Swimming Beaches: The area features inviting swimming beaches, such as the one at Coles Point, which attracts many visitors looking to cool off and relax by the water.

• Extensive Hiking Trails: Bolar Mountain boasts 11 miles of hiking trails, including the Bolar Loop Trail, Bolar Picnic Trail Spur, Island Overlook Spur, and Grouse Point Overlook, offering scenic routes and impressive vistas of the lake and surrounding forest.

• Scenic Overlooks: Two notable scenic overlooks, Islands Overlook Spur and Grouse Point Overlook, provide breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Moomaw and the Allegheny Mountains.

• Family-Friendly Environment: The campground is considered a family-friendly destination, complete with a playground (at Morris Hill Campground nearby, which is also part of the Lake Moomaw area), ensuring entertainment for younger visitors.

• Rich Biodiversity: Situated within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, the area is home to 40 species of trees (mostly Appalachian hardwood and mixed pine-hardwood forests), 60 species of mammals, and 200 species of birds, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Visitors consistently praise the cleanliness and upkeep of the campgrounds, including the flush toilets and hot showers, contributing to a comfortable and pleasant stay.

As a public recreation area managed by the US Forest Service, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area operates on a standard fee structure rather than frequent promotional offers seen at private campgrounds. However, it does provide value and specific discounts through federal passes:

• America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass: Holders of this pass (including the annual pass, senior pass, and access pass) are typically eligible for a 50% discount on the base campsite fee (excluding hookups) and day-use fees. This can significantly reduce costs for eligible campers.

• George Washington & Jefferson National Forests Seasonal Day Use Pass: This pass is also accepted and covers day-use fees, beneficial for locals who plan to visit the area frequently for day activities without camping overnight.

For the most current information on fees, reservation policies, and any potential seasonal changes, it is always recommended to consult the official Recreation.gov website for Bolar Mountain Recreation Area or contact the James River and Warm Springs Ranger District directly.

For direct inquiries, to confirm reservation details, or to get the latest information regarding Bolar Mountain Recreation Area and its campgrounds, you can use the following contact details. Please note that while the provided address is a general one for the US Forestry Department in Warm Springs, the specific phone number is the most reliable contact for the recreation area itself.

• Address: 7368 Bolars Draft Rd, Warm Springs, VA 24484, USA (This address generally points to the area, but for specific facilities, follow USFS directions or GPS guidance to the recreation area entrance.)

• Phone: (540) 279-4186

• Mobile Phone: +1 540-279-4186

Given that cell service can be intermittent in the area, it's a good idea to gather all necessary information before you travel or make your calls from an area with reliable reception.

For Virginians, Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is an exceptional and highly suitable destination that truly encapsulates the diverse outdoor experiences our state offers. Its appeal to locals stems from its combination of accessibility, comprehensive amenities, and the sheer breadth of activities available, all set within a breathtaking natural backdrop.

Firstly, the area's location within the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests means Virginians have a vast, protected wilderness at their fingertips. This allows for easy day trips or extended stays, providing a quick escape from daily routines without requiring extensive travel. The emphasis on conserving the outdoors, as noted by a local reviewer who "love the outdoors and conserving," resonates deeply with the environmental consciousness often found within our communities.

Secondly, Bolar Mountain caters to a wide range of camping preferences. Whether you're an RV owner looking for electric hookups and dump stations, or a tent camper seeking a more traditional experience, the variety of sites ensures everyone finds their comfort level. The presence of well-maintained flush toilets and hot showers is a significant comfort that elevates the primitive camping experience, making it more appealing for families or those newer to camping.

The abundance of recreational opportunities centered around Lake Moomaw is perhaps the biggest draw. Locals can enjoy superb fishing for trout and bass, leisurely kayaking, exciting water skiing, or simply relaxing on the inviting swimming beaches. The 11 miles of hiking trails offer a chance to explore the forest on foot, leading to stunning scenic overlooks that provide a fresh perspective on Virginia's beauty. This variety means that every visit can offer a new adventure, encouraging repeat trips throughout the seasons.

Finally, while the area encourages a disconnect from digital life with limited cell service, this is often seen as a positive for locals seeking a true escape and a chance to fully immerse themselves in nature. It's a place where families can bond without screen distractions, and individuals can find peace and rejuvenation. Bolar Mountain Recreation Area is more than just a campground; it’s a cherished natural asset that provides Virginians with an invaluable opportunity to connect with the wild heart of our Commonwealth, fostering a deep appreciation for its enduring beauty and recreational possibilities.

US Forestry Department

7368 Bolars Draft Rd, Warm Springs, VA 24484, USA