Emerald Pond Primitive Campground

I would concur with everything the previous review said. We didn’t see a ton of trash- but the trash we saw would fit into one plastic grocery bag and it was in the fire pits. I agree that it’s the locals hanging out here, that’s been confirmed. But this is a sweeeeet spot. We hike this bird knob trail all the time and usually end it by swimming across emerald pond. It’s the perfect temperature (in July and august when we’ve done it). We hang a hammock and let the kids play. There’s wild blackberries everywhere. Got our bellies full. I don’t want other people to find out how great this swimming hole is and ruin it.

I hiked here last summer but am just getting around to reviewing it.

This was suggested to me by a seasoned AT thru hiker as a great starter trip for a couple reason. You start at the old Welcome Center. 38.64278,-78.61138, and take a really steep ascent to the ridgeline, but then it's mostly flat for the remainder. It gets the hard part out of the way at the start. If you would rather not hike it, there is a Forest Access road, but I'm not sure how often it is open and if permits are needed to drive on it. 

Once you do get to the pond, there are several cleared spots to put up a tent. One of the spots could hold about 4 tents, so, great for some friends going out together. There are also fire rings at these tent spots, and plenty of trees to collect wood in the area. The pond itself is beautiful and spring fed, meaning you will always have a source of water. It should still be filtered, but anyone out backpacking would have a water filter on them.

There is no cell phone service, but because there is a pond, you get an amazing view of the night sky, unobstructed! I didn't expect temps to get as low as they did the night I went out there, but keep in mind it is fresh (cold) spring water and you're in the middle of two ridge lines, so it will get colder than the surrounding areas. One thing I did notice that was rather frustrating is the amount of trash. I mentioned there is an access road, and I think the locals probably use this spot to party and hangout at. There are lots of beer cans and broken glass around. I'm a big advocate for Leave No Trace, and will pick up other trash I find, but I would need a trashbag or two to get all of this stuff out. 

All this being said, I highly highly recommend this site for anyone new to backpacking, or just looking for a nice calm pond to camp next to.