JESS JUDY

Jess Judy Group Campground is situated in the northern portion of the Monongahela National Forest, on the western banks of the river. The region boasts beautiful old-growth forests that become vibrant with color in fall. The South Branch of the Potomac River runs north through Smoke Hole Canyon, which bears a name of uncertain origin. One theory is Native Americans once used the caves in the canyon for smoking meat, which created "smoke holes." Another is that misty fog often lies along the river and ascends in what looks like smoke from a hole.

Recreation: Visitors enjoy canoeing and fishing on the river, and hiking on local trails. Thirty miles of maintained trails can be found nearby and mountain biking is permitted on most of them. One highly recommended trail for hikers and backpackers is the North Fork Mountain Trail.

Nearby: Traverse through narrow, steep valleys and over rolling, tree-topped mountains on the Highland Scenic Highway. This 43-mile drive includes highlights like Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Summit Lake, and the Falls of Hills Creek.