Stuart
Swimming hole in Elkins, West Virginia · Creek
Stuart is a creek swimming hole. It is near Elkins, West Virginia. Fee notes: Yes, $3.00 for day use. Best season: Summer is a strong choice for.
Typical season: Summer is a strong choice for
About Stuart
Stuart lies in West Virginia, where Shaver'S Fork moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access.
Set along Shaver's Fork. A clear, mountain-fed creek near the small community of Bowden. This is an officially managed site that balances wild beauty with just enough amenity to make a full day (or a full week) here genuinely comfortable. Shaver's Fork winds through a deeply wooded valley, and the .
Tall hardwoods and conifers crowd the banks, filtering afternoon light into shifting green patterns on the water's surface. The creek itself runs with the characteristic clarity of high-elevation Appalachian streams. You can see the rocky bottom even where the water deepens into . The surrounding forest keeps things cool even on the hottest July afternoons, and the soundscape is all rushing water and birdsong.
No lifeguards patrol Stuart. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Creek
- Water body
- Shaver's Fork
- Fee
- Yes, $3.00 for day use
- Nearest town
- Elkins
- State
- West Virginia
- Coordinates
- 38.92220, -79.77830
- Best season
- Summer is a strong choice for . Spring brings vibrant greenery, and winter provides serene snowy landscapes.
- Access difficulty
- Easy access via well-marked roads; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- Yes
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- Camping right at site in N.F. Campground, $17 to camp, includes swimming. Very nicely, developed campground, woodsy setting.
- Land manager
- U.S. Forest Service
- Activities
- Swimming, Jumping
- Facilities
- Day-use amenities include toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables. Campground is well-developed with fire pits and wooded sites.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Summer is a strong choice for . Spring brings vibrant greenery, and winter provides serene snowy landscapes.
- Access Easy access via well-marked roads; suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
- Facilities Day-use amenities include toilets, changing rooms, and picnic tables. Campground is well-developed with fire pits and wooded sites.
- Camping nearby Camping right at site in N.F. Campground, $17 to camp, includes swimming. Very nicely, developed campground, woodsy setting.
Highlights & features
- Cool, clear waters of Shaver’s Fork
- On-site camping with amenities
- Picturesque forested setting
- Ideal for swimming and jumping
- Accessible location near Elkins
- Combination of swimming and camping opportunities
- Crystal-clear waters fed by mountain springs
- Diverse seasonal experiences
How to get there
Stuart lies in West Virginia near Elkins, Bowden. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. If you're traveling from Elkins, Use these driving notes to reach the Stuart Recreation Area: Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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Start in Elkins, WV
Begin your journey in downtown Elkins. Locate US Route 33 East (also known as Corridor H).
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Head east on US Route 33
Drive about 4 miles east on US Route 33. You will pass landmarks such as the Elkins Walmart and the Bowden Fish Hatchery along the way. Turn left onto Old Route 33/County Route 6 After traveling 4 miles, look for a left turn onto Old Route 33/County Route 6. This turn is marked with signs for the Stuart Recreation Area. Follow signs to Stuart Recreation Area Continue driving on Old Route 33/County Route 6 for about 1 mile. You will see clear signage directing you to the Stuart Recreation Area entrance.
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Parking and final approach
Upon arriving at the Stuart Recreation Area, you will find a designated parking area near the entrance. Park your vehicle here. The . Follow the marked paths to reach the water.
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Additional Notes
The Stuart Recreation Area is a busy spot for outdoor activities, including swimming, picnicking, and hiking. Arrive early during peak times to secure parking. Restrooms and picnic facilities are available near the parking area. Be sure to bring appropriate footwear for the trail leading to the . Have a safe visit to this scenic !
Plan your visit
Stuart works well as a day trip from Elkins or Bowden. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Deckers Creek Trail or browse more West Virginia creek spots in our directory. For the full list in West Virginia, see our state directory.
Access & fees
Official U.S. Forest Service site. Day-use fee of $3.00 required. Facilities include toilets, a changing room, and picnic tables. Parking is available but can fill during peak summer weekends.
Top picks for this trip
Merrell Hydro Moc
If you want one shoe that handles the walk in, the swim, and the lounge afterward, the Hydro Moc is the easiest pick.
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Rainleaf Microfiber Towel
Buy two — a large for drying off and a small for gear — and you still spend less than one cotton beach towel.
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What to pack for Stuart
Gear we compare side by side for creek swims like this one — water access, sun, and the hike in.
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Stuart?
Yes. Stuart near Elkins and Bowden in WV is a creek swimming spot on Shaver's Fork. Scout depth and current before entering — no lifeguards at most natural access points.
How much does Stuart cost?
Plan for fees: Yes, $3.00 for day use. Rates and policies change — verify with the land manager before you drive.
How do you get to Stuart?
Stuart is in WV within day-trip range of Elkins and Bowden. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
Explore more nearby swimming guides
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Map & location
Culture & history
Part of Randolph County’s rich history, close to Elkins, a city with deep ties to Appalachian culture and heritage.
Conservation
Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, respect wildlife, and avoid damaging vegetation. Help preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Sources & updates
Official land managers cited on this page
Always confirm current rules, closures, and fees on the agency site before visiting.
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.