Camp Creek Area
Swimming hole in Bluefield, West Virginia · Waterfall
Guide to unofficial swimming holes at Brush Creek, Campbell, and Mash Fork Falls in West Virginia's Camp Creek Area. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice.
About Camp Creek Area
Tucked into the rolling hills of southern West Virginia, the Camp Creek Area is a patchwork of tumbling waterfalls, mossy creek banks, and quiet forest pools that feels like it was made for the kind of summer day when nothing matters except cold water and the sound of the woods. These are unofficial swimming spots — unhurried, unguarded, and entirely honest about what they are: wild places where Appalachian nature does exactly what it pleases.
The Setting and Landscape
The star attractions here are three distinct waterfalls, each with its own personality. Brush Creek Falls drops a dramatic 20 feet into a pool at its base, the white cascade loud enough to feel in your chest when you're standing close. The surrounding hemlock and hardwood forest filters the light into shifting green patterns across the water. Campbell Falls, found within Camp Creek State Forest, sits in a more sheltered hollow where the canopy closes in and the air carries the cool, mineral smell of moving water year-round. Mash Fork Falls is the most intimate of the three — smaller in scale but no less beautiful, its pool offering a quieter, more personal swimming experience. Together, these sites form a loose trail of discovery through one of West Virginia's most scenically underrated corners.
Swimming and Water Conditions
Water levels vary significantly by season, and late spring through early summer is when the area truly earns its reputation. The falls are at their most powerful and photogenic, and the pools run deep enough for a proper swim. By midsummer, the weather is warm and the water — fed by forested hillsides — stays refreshingly cool against the July heat. Clarity tends to be good in the creek pools after dry spells, though runoff following heavy rain can cloud things up temporarily. Because these are unofficial swimming spots with no monitoring, you'll want to read conditions carefully on arrival. The creek beds are rocky, so water shoes are a smart call. Access to Brush Creek Falls involves a short hike with some brush, while Campbell and Mash Fork Falls are reached via more straightforward trails within the state forest.
Plan Your Visit
Admission is free, and camping is available at Blue Jay Campground within Camp Creek State Forest — a convenient base that puts you minutes from all three falls. Facilities are described as full-service, which is a genuine comfort for those planning multi-day stays. Come prepared with your own food, water, and first aid, as the area is rural and services are limited nearby. The closest towns are Camp Creek, Princeton, and Bluefield, the latter two offering a fuller range of restaurants, gas stations, and lodging options if you prefer a roof over your head. Princeton sits about 15 miles to the north along U.S. Route 460 and serves as the practical hub for the region. Whether you're making a day trip from Bluefield or settling in for a long weekend beneath the West Virginia pines, the Camp Creek Area rewards visitors who come ready to slow down and let the forest set the pace.
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring through early summer is ideal, when water levels are high and the falls are most striking. Summer months provide warm weather and refreshing swims.
- Access Easy to moderate. Brush Creek Falls involves a short hike, while Campbell and Mash Fork Falls are accessible via straightforward trails within the state forest.
- Facilities All facilities available, including picnic areas and parking. Nearby camping options at Blue Jay Campground in Camp Creek State Forest.
- Camping nearby Camping at site in Blue Jay Campground in Camp Creek State Forest
Highlights & features
- Brush Creek Falls with 20-foot cascade
- Campbell Falls in Camp Creek State Forest
- Mash Fork Falls for intimate swimming
- Varied water levels and seasonal beauty
- Rich Appalachian wildlife and flora
- Three distinct swimming holes with varying sizes and features
- Historical significance of nearby Bluefield and Princeton
- Diverse wildlife and plant life
How to get there
Swimming Hole Directions: Camp Creek Area, WV Brush Creek Falls Brush Creek Falls is a wide waterfall with a 20-foot drop into a swimming hole. Some visitors jump from a rock ledge into the water, but always check for hidden rocks before jumping. Directions: Starting in Bluefield, WV (near the southern border with Virginia), take I-77 north.
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Exit I-77 at Exit 14.
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From Exit 14, take County Road 7 (CR 7) southeast for approximately 2.5 miles, passing through Mercer Springs.
At the intersection with Route 20 (RT 20), turn left (north) and drive about 4.75 miles, passing through Athens and continuing toward Speedway. Near Speedway, turn left onto Brush Creek Falls Road (also known as Speedway Road or CR 3). Follow Brush Creek Falls Road for approximately 2.5 miles until the road forks. At the fork, take the left fork onto Brush Creek Road and continue for about 0.5 miles to the parking area near a picnic pavilion. Park your vehicle at the pavilion. From here, follow the footpath located behind the pavilion for about 0.25 miles to reach the falls.
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Additional Notes
The trail to the falls is relatively short but may require packing light for convenience. The upper falls are easy to access, while the lower falls have an overlook deck. Visitors can continue past the deck on a worn path with proper footwear. Bug spray and non-skid water shoes are recommended. Water levels vary, so jumping from the falls is only advised when there is significant water flow. GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 37.46506 Longitude: -81.06278 Google Maps Link Campbell Falls
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Campbell Falls is a large swimming hole located at the foot of a waterfall within Camp Creek State Forest. Directions
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From Brush Creek Falls, return to I-77 and continue north to Exit 20.
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Take Exit 20 and turn onto Route 19 (RT 19) heading south.
Follow signs for Camp Creek State Park/Forest. Once inside the park, follow signs for the Blue Jay camping area and Campbell Falls. Park your vehicle near the designated area for Campbell Falls. Walk a short distance along a scenic trail to reach the base of the falls. GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 37.5162 Longitude: -81.1319 Google Maps Link Mash Fork Falls Mash Fork Falls is a smaller swimming hole located at the foot of a waterfall within Camp Creek State Forest. Directions: Once inside Camp Creek State Park/Forest, follow signs for the Mash Fork camping area. From the Mash Fork camping area, take the gravel road (unsigned) leading to the falls. Park near the falls and walk a short distance to reach the swimming hole.
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Additional Notes
Water levels at Mash Fork Falls may be too shallow for swimming during low flow conditions. GPS Coordinates: Latitude: 37.50056 Longitude: -81.14254 Google Maps Link Enjoy your visit to the Camp Creek Area and its beautiful swimming holes! Always exercise caution when swimming or exploring near waterfalls.
Plan your visit
Admission is free, and camping is available at Blue Jay Campground within Camp Creek State Forest — a convenient base that puts you minutes from all three falls. Facilities are described as full-service, which is a genuine comfort for those planning multi-day stays. Come prepared with your own food, water, and first aid, as the area is rural and services are limited nearby. The closest towns are Camp Creek, Princeton, and Bluefield, the latter two offering a fuller range of restaurants, gas stations, and lodging options if you prefer a roof over your head. Princeton sits about 15 miles to the north along U.S. Route 460 and serves as the practical hub for the region. Whether you're making a day trip from Bluefield or settling in for a long weekend beneath the West Virginia pines, the Camp Creek Area rewards visitors who come ready to slow down and let the forest set the pace.
Admission is free, and camping is available at Blue Jay Campground within Camp Creek State Forest — a convenient base that puts you minutes from all three falls. Facilities are described as full-service, which is a genuine comfort for those planning multi-day stays. Come prepared with your own food, water, and first aid, as the area is rural and services are limited nearby. The closest towns are Camp Creek, Princeton, and Bluefield, the latter two offering a fuller range of restaurants, gas stations, and lodging options if you prefer a roof over your head. Princeton sits about 15 miles to the north along U.S. Route 460 and serves as the practical hub for the region. Whether you're making a day trip from Bluefield or settling in for a long weekend beneath the West Virginia pines, the Camp Creek Area rewards visitors who come ready to slow down and let the forest set the pace.
Access & fees
These are unofficial, natural areas with no lifeguards or designated swimming supervision. All facilities (like picnic pavilions) are located in the surrounding state forest/park areas, not directly at the swimming holes. No fee is mentioned for access to the swimming holes themselves.
These are unofficial, natural areas with no lifeguards or designated swimming supervision. All facilities (like picnic pavilions) are located in the surrounding state forest/park areas, not directly at the swimming holes. No fee is mentioned for access to the swimming holes themselves.
Frequently asked questions
Is CAMP CREEK AREA free to visit?
CAMP CREEK AREA may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at CAMP CREEK AREA?
Yes, CAMP CREEK AREA is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is CAMP CREEK AREA?
CAMP CREEK AREA is a falls/creek on Varies-see below located in WV, near BLUEFIELD. Guide to unofficial swimming holes at Brush Creek, Campbell, and Mash Fork Falls in West Virginia's Camp Creek Area. Find directions, safety tips, and seasonal advice.
When is the best time to visit CAMP CREEK AREA?
The best time to visit CAMP CREEK AREA is Late spring through early summer is ideal, when water levels are high and the falls are most striking. Summer months provide warm weather and refreshing swims.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at CAMP CREEK AREA?
Reported facilities at CAMP CREEK AREA include: All facilities available, including picnic areas and parking. Nearby camping options at Blue Jay Campground in Camp Creek State Forest.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near CAMP CREEK AREA?
Camping at site in Blue Jay Campground in Camp Creek State Forest
Nearby swimming holes
Culture & history
The Camp Creek Area is a gateway to Appalachian history, with nearby towns like Bluefield and Princeton offering glimpses into coal heritage and local traditions.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles. Avoid disturbing wildlife and ensure all trash is carried out. Respect the delicate ecosystems surrounding the swimming holes.