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Howell Run Picnic Area in West Virginia
Hard to Book

Howell Run Picnic Area

Jennings Randolph Lake, West Virginia

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As of September 2026, Howell Run Picnic Area is a campground in West Virginia with 3 campsites. Howell Run Picnic Area is booked through Recreation.gov.

  • PermitSnag checks Howell Run Picnic Area for availability and tells alert holders when a site opens up.
  • Howell Run Picnic Area is located at 39.4169ยฐ N, 79.1272ยฐ W.
people allowed on 2 of 3 sites
30

Howell Run Picnic Area reservations and next available dates

September 2026

open, tap to book on Recreation.govsold outin your alert

Stay and booking rules

  • Maximum stay: 14 nights
  • Military discount available

Published by Recreation.gov for Howell Run Picnic Area, read on September 30, 2026.

Campsites at Howell Run Picnic Area

  • Group 3
  • Accessible 1

Amenities

  • restrooms
  • potable water

At a glance: Setting: Mountain.

Things to do: fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, wildlife, photography.

All sites at Howell Run Picnic Area, as listed by Recreation.gov

Every site is in the Howell Run Picnic Area loop.

SiteTypeSleepsAccess
GazeboGroup25-
Shelter 001Group30-
Shelter 002Group30Accessible

About Howell Run Picnic Area

Overview

The Howell Run Picnic Area is a day use facility overlooking Jennings Randolph Lake, providing a beautiful backdrop for picnicking, sightseeing and hiking. A nesting pair of bald eagles call Jennings Randolph Lake home. Bring binoculars for the lucky chance to spot a bald eagle.

Recreation

At the Howell Run Picnic Area, enjoy the panoramic view of the lake.

Walk the Lakeside trail which connects the picnic area with the Shaw Beach area.

Facilities

Shelter #2 is handicap accessible and has running water. It is closest to the restroom and playground equipment. The Gazebo is located in the center of the picnic area.

Shelter #1 is the first shelter as you drive in. Each shelter comfortably accommodates groups of up to 30 people in a lovely lakeside setting.

Natural Features

The Lake spans 952 acres in the rugged hills of the West Virginia Allegany Mountains.

Nearby Attractions

A mile down the road is Shaw Beach where you can enjoy swimming. The project offers facilities for hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, boating and camping.

Rules and notices at Howell Run Picnic Area

Recreation.gov does not date these notices. We last read them on September 30, 2026. Check Howell Run Picnic Area on Recreation.gov

Notices from Recreation.gov

The shelters are available from 7:30 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. daily.

Due to cooler weather temperatures, amenities such as water and bathroom facilities may be unavailable between October 1st and May 1st.

Flush toilets are present in the area.

Potable water is only available at Shelter #2.

Handicap Parking is available.

The gazebo and shelters 1 and 2 are equipped with 120 volt electric outlets.

Please be sure to bring your confirmation letter with you on the day of your reservation.

Do not attach signs, balloons, streamers, etc., to any signs in the recreation area.

One person shall be designated as the event leader and as such is responsible for the actions of the attendees and is responsible for insuring the conditions listed in the permit are adhered to during and after the event.

Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Howell Run Picnic Area FAQ

How hard is it to get a campsite at Howell Run Picnic Area?

Howell Run Picnic Area is rated "Hard to Book" based on historical demand. This campground is popular and often books out weeks in advance. Your best strategy is to monitor cancellations.

How do I find last-minute availability at Howell Run Picnic Area?

Cancellations happen frequently at Howell Run Picnic Area, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.

How many campsites does Howell Run Picnic Area have?

Howell Run Picnic Area has 3 campsites.

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