Howell Run Picnic Area
The Howell Run Picnic Area is a day use facility overlooking Jennings Randolph Lake, providing a beautiful backdrop for picnicking, sightseeing and hiking. A nesting pair of bald eagles call Jennings Randolph Lake home. Bring binoculars for the lucky chance to spot a bald eagle.
Shelter #2 is handicap accessible and has running water. It is closest to the restroom and playground equipment. The Gazebo is located in the center of the picnic area. Shelter #1 is the first shelter as you drive in. Each shelter comfortably accommodates groups of up to 30 people in a lovely lakeside setting.
Notifications and Alerts
Due to ongoing construction at the project, project staff will be utilizing a portion of the picnic area parking lot for a mobile office. There will be 29 available parking spaces at the picnic area for 2025. If you have a shelter reservation that requires more than 29 parking spaces, please contact the project office for accomodations, 304-355-2346.
Need to Know
- The shelters are available from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. daily.
- Due to cooler weather temperatures, amenities such as water and bathroom facilities may be unavailable between October 1st and May 1st.
- Flush toilets are present in the area.
- Potable water is only available at Shelter #2.
- Handicap Parking is available.
The gazebo and shelters 1 and 2 are equipped with 120 volt electric outlets.
- Please be sure to bring your confirmation letter with you on the day of your reservation.
- Do not attach signs, balloons, streamers, etc., to any signs in the recreation area.
- One person shall be designated as the event leader and as such is responsible for the actions of the attendees and is responsible for insuring the conditions listed in the permit are adhered to during and after the event.
- Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Natural Features
The Lake spans 952 acres in the rugged hills of the West Virginia Allegany Mountains.
Nearby Attractions
A mile down the road is Shaw Beach where you can enjoy swimming. The project offers facilities for hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, boating and camping.
Recreation
At the Howell Run Picnic Area, enjoy the panoramic view of the lake. Walk the Lakeside trail which connects the picnic area with the Shaw Beach area.
Contact Information
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PO Box 247 Elk Garden WV 26717
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 304 355-2346
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Cumberland, MD, take US 220 south to US 50W, go west to WV 42N, go north to WV 46E. Follow the signs to the Howell Run Picnic Area.
Available Campsites
- Site Shelter 001, Loop Howell Run Picnic Area, Type Group Shelter Nonelectric
- Site Shelter 002, Loop Howell Run Picnic Area, Type Group Shelter Nonelectric
- Site Gazebo, Loop Howell Run Picnic Area, Type Group Shelter Nonelectric
