Trout Pond Recreation Area
Part of George Washington & Jefferson National Forest
Overview
Trout Pond Recreation Area boasts two bodies of water, Rock Cliff Lake and Trout Pond. Relax on a sandy mountain beach or fish for stocked trout while relaxing along the cool waters of Rock Cliff Lake.
Trout Pond, home to native Brook trout, is the only natural lake in West Virginia. A designated swimming area, easy lakeside trails, and a children's playground make this a perfect family destination.
Facilities
Campsites come with a campfire ring and picnic table, and some of have electric hookups. Hot showers and flush toilets are an easy walk away from each site.
The day-use area includes a white-sand swim beach, boat ramp, showers, playground and 30 picnic sites.
Natural Features
Rock Cliff Lake is a 17-acre man-made lake with a maximum depth of 36 feet and an average depth of 12 feet. Trout Pond, the naturally formed lake, was created by a sinkhole that filled with mountain stream water and run-off from Long Mountain. Trout Pond can vary in waterflow. Please visit the Forest Service website for our most up to date conditions.
Recreation
A trail surrounding the entire lake provides bank fishing access at Rock Cliff Lake. All types of boating from motor to sailboats are welcome.
Hike the Trout Pond Loop trail, an easy 4-mile excursion, with an optional 2-mile side route, to an overlook of Rockcliff Lake. For a more challenging hike, a connecting trail provides a steep climb up Long and Devil's Hole Mountains.
Contact Info
This location has limited staffing. Please call (540) 984-4101 for general information.
Important Notices
- No gasoline-powered boats allowed on lake
- This facility has first-come, first-serve single sites
- A life jacket is required for all boaters
- Please check-in with campground host upon arrival
- No off-road vehicles allowed
- No dogs allowed on beach
- No alcoholic beverages
- Entrance gates locked from 10 p.m. to 8 a.m.
- For more information on George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, click here
- Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
Available Activities
- SWIMMING SITE - Swimming
- HIKING - Hiking Trail
- FISHING - Fishing
- CAMPING - Camping
Directions
From Strasburg, VA, follow State Route 55 west for 18 miles to Wardensville, WV. Turn left on SR 23/10, and travel for about 6 miles. Turn right on CR 16, and travel for 6 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 500, and drive about 1 mile to the Trout Pond Recreation Area entrance.
Cancellation Policy
group shelter nonelectric 1-50 people $65, 51-100 people $100, standard non electric is $19.00 per night
Contact Information
Phone: 1(304)897-6450
814 Trout Pond Campground RD
Lost City,
WV
26810-8382