About BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER
Overview Bluestone Lake Picnic Shelter is a day-use area near the shores of Bluestone Lake in southern West Virginia. The 2,040 acres of water provide boaters, water skiers and fishermen with plenty of recreational opportunities. With a capacity of up to 100 guests and dozens of activities and amenities, the day use area is a hot spot for large gatherings and outdoor fun. It is very popular among Little League Baseball groups and fishermen.Recreation The New River is the best warm water fishery in West Virginia. Year after year, it produces more citation game fish than any other warm water river in West Virginia. Anglers can cast a line for smallmouth, white and striped bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie and muskellunge. A short drive to the popular Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management Area won't disappoint for hunters interested wild turkey, white-tailed deer and various small game.Facilities The accessible picnic shelter is equipped with electric and water hookups, as well as restrooms and ample parking. There are 12 picnic tables located around the shelter which seat approximately 75 people. Basketball, baseball, horseshoe, playing fields and a playground are sure to keep visitors active during their visit. A boat ramp, dock, pier and marina are a short drive away for the convenience of boaters and anglers. Natural Features Visitors won't want to miss the scenic views of West Virginia's third largest lake and its surrounding thick forests. Bluestone Dam spans the New River, forming Bluestone Lake. The New River is the oldest river in North America and partially follows the path of the prehistoric Teays River. The area is also rich in cultural history, with 103 archaeological sites located on federal property around the lake. Nearby Attractions Bluestone State Park has cabin rentals, picnicking and camping facilities, as well as two boat ramps and a marina.
How to Get There
From Beckley, West Virginia, take Interstate 64 east to exit 139. Go south on State Route 20 to Hinton and turn right at the first stoplight. Follow Route 20 south and turn left across the New River Bridge. Turn right at the end of the bridge on State Route 3E. Make another right onto Miller Avenue and follow the road to Bluestone Dam.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER
Heading to BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER?
No central reservation system listed for BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234229) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER?
From Beckley, West Virginia, take Interstate 64 east to exit 139. Go south on State Route 20 to Hinton and turn right at the first stoplight. Follow Route 20 south and turn left across the New River Bridge. Turn right at the end of the bridge on State Route 3E. Make another right onto Miller Avenue and follow the road to Bluestone Dam.
How do I contact BLUESTONE LAKE PICNIC SHELTER?
You can reach the park at phone: 304-466-1234.
References & Official Resources
