Dolly Sods Wilderness

Bonner Mountain Road, Dry Fork, WV 26263

Dolly Sods Wilderness, the most popular wilderness area in West Virginia. It is located in Randolph, Tucker, and Grant County. This crown jewel of the Monongahela National Forest offers 17,631 acres and nearly 50 miles of rugged trail to hikers, backpackers, and horseback riders. Stunning mountain vistas, a variety of unique ecosystems, and the majority of the Red Creek drainage give nature enthusiasts the ecological immersion and solitude that only wilderness can provide.

Red Creek Campground is a primitive, small campground that sits on top of the Allegheny Plateau and within the Dolly Sods Scenic Area. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. Dolly Sods also offers multiple backcountry campsites along the many trails. The environment is very diverse and the climate and plant life here resemble parts of Canada.

In the lower elevations, you will find a forest of northern hardwoods and laurel thickets. In August of 1943, the military used the area for mountain training for World War II. Many of the artillery and mortar shells shot into the area for practice still exist; this is why it is important to stay on existing trails and use the many existing primitive campsites. Streams can rise quickly during rain events and weather is unpredictable so it is best to be prepared for the unexpected. During hunting season, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.

Dolly Sods is truly a pristine Appalachian experience.