Bear Heaven Recreation Area

Bear Heaven Recreation Area offers dramatic sandstone formations, peaceful camping, and trail access into the Otter Creek Wilderness.
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At a Glance

Bear Heaven Recreation Area offers primitive camping among dramatic rock outcroppings and bouldering opportunities high on Shavers Mountain, 14 miles northeast of Elkins near the Otter Creek Wilderness. The area features eight secluded campsites with gravel parking, fire rings, and vault toilets, along with nearby stream fishing and hiking access into the Monongahela National Forest.

Activities

Features

Difficulty

Season

Campground closes in Winter

Area Trails

Trail Name

Recreation Sites

Item #1

Safety

While interconnected, the footpaths at Bear Heaven are unmarked. Remember your route when exploring. The “improvement” or creation of new trails in this ecologically sensitive area is prohibited.

Cell service may not be available during your hike. Please plan accordingly and always follow Leave No Trace principles.

During hunting season, stay on established trails, wear bright colors like blaze orange, and make your presence known to ensure safety for all forest users.

Directions

From Elkins, drive east on US-33 for 11 miles, turning left on Forest Road 91 (Stuart Memorial Drive) past the Shavers Mountain Trailhead. Continue on Forest Road 91 for 3 miles, keeping left at the intersection for the campground and recreation area.

Nearby Towns

Downtown

No town nearby.

15 Minutes

From its unexpectedly cool downtown coffee shops and breweries to its rail trails and wilderness areas, Elkins packs above its weight in outdoor adventures.

30 Minutes

No town within 30 minutes.

60 Minutes

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Thomas, WV combines a thriving arts district with trail, waterfall, and canyon access as the northern gateway to the Monongahela National Forest.

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Area Itineraries

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