Within the Monongahela National Forest, Horseshoe Recreation Area operates as a US Forest Service campground along the Cheat River from early June through late August. The facility provides both primitive and hookup sites, with one loop offering water and electric connections for RVs up to 35 feet. Access requires navigating rough roads that can challenge some vehicles.
The campground centers around a large open field that serves multiple purposes throughout the day. Campers use this space for games and activities, while those with solar equipment benefit from the unobstructed sunlight. Two distinct loops provide different camping experiences - the hookup loop surrounds the open area, while a second loop contains primitive sites and walk-in options with nearby parking and vault toilets.
River access defines much of the camping experience here. The Cheat River flows alongside the campground, providing fishing opportunities under catch-and-release regulations that require proper licensing. Jean C. notes the river offers swimming and wading, though "I would definitely want water shoes to protect my feet." Day visitors often arrive to use the two pavilions or access the water. Reviews consistently mention the facility's cleanliness, particularly the bathroom facilities that include both flush and vault toilets.
Campers seeking additional river activities can explore campgrounds around Thomas, where outfitters provide both flatwater and whitewater options on the Cheat River system.
Description
Overview
Horseshoe Recreation Area is located in north-central West Virginia, 7 miles from the town of St. George. The campground is tucked in a valley along Horseshoe Run, providing excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing beside the creek in the beautiful Monongahela National Forest.The campground offers 21 campsites total. Sites 7 through 12 are reservable below, while sites 1 through 6 and 13 through 21 are available on a first come, first served basis.
Recreation
Day hiking options include the 1.8-mile Losh Trail, the Dorman Ridge Trail at 1.3 miles, and Two Camp, a short 0.3 mile hike. Fishing for trout is a popular pastime and hunting is allowed in an area about a mile beyond the recreation area.
Facilities
Each site offers picnic tables, grills, and waste receptacles and standard sites have electric hookups. There are accessible vault toilets and non-accessible flush toilets. Hand pumps and a drinking fountain with faucet are available. The camp store sells firewood and ice. The two group picnic shelters are accessible. The large electric pavilion has an occupancy limit of 75, and the small non-electric pavilion has an occupancy limit of 10.
Natural Features
Within the recreation area, open fields are mowed and gravel roads are maintained along the river. The Monongahela Forest extends over the north central highlands of the state, straddling many of the region's highest peaks. Elevation ranges from 1,000 to 4,863 feet above sea level. Variations in terrain and precipitation have created one of the most ecologically diverse national forests in the country.
Contact Info
Between 05/13/2026 and 09/14/2026 this location is staffed. Please call (304) 801-3262 to speak with local staff. From 09/15/2026 to 05/01/2027 this location is unstaffed. Please call (304) 478-2481 for general information.
Nearby Attractions
Take a scenic drive throughout the forest. Fall brings incredible foliage colors to the region.
Fee Info
There is a $7.00/night fee charged for Electric Sites in addition to the $18.00/night use fee. This $7.00 fee is not discountable.Interagency Pass and Access Pass Daily Rates for Electric Sites in Loop A will be reduced to $17.00 per day for holders of these passes. Pass holder must be staying on site. Loop B pass holder fee will be $12.00 per night.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsHorseshoe Recreation Area is located in West Virginia near Thomas
Directions
From Parsons, take State Route 72 northeast to State Route 5 to St. George. In St. George, turn south on State Route 1. Follow State Route 1 to the intersection of State Route 7. Turn left on State Route 7 and continue past the YMCA Camp Horseshoe to the Horseshoe Recreation Area entrance.
Address
3309 Horseshoe Run Rd
Parsons, WV 26287
Coordinates
39.1802778 N
79.6005556 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 1 hr 17 min from Morgantown, WV
- 1 hr 54 min from Winchester, VA
- 2 hrs 6 min from Harrisonburg, VA
