Visit Wilderness

The 5,144 acre Big Draft Wilderness is located on the southern tip of the Forest, just south of Blue Bend Recreation Area and about five miles north of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia.

Slopes within the area range from 10 to 60% and are typically long ridges with narrow summits and mountain slopes. The elevations range from 1,800 feet to over 3,100 feet.

The primary vegetative type is oak and hickory, with pockets of hemlock and white pine. The understory consists of rhododendron, mixed shrubs, grasses and ferns.

This is a popular area for a variety of recreation opportunities. Use within the area is considered moderate to high most of the year and is used primarily by hikers, hunters, paddlers and anglers.

The 14-mile trail system is open to hikers and equestrians with the exception of the Blue Bend Loop trail in which no stock use is permitted.

The area provides numerous scenic views.

Leave No Trace

How to follow the seven standard Leave No Trace principles differs in different parts of the country (desert vs. Rocky Mountains). Click on any of the principles listed below to learn more about how they apply in the Big Draft Wilderness.

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare
2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

For more information on Leave No Trace, Visit the Leave No Trace, Inc. website.

Rules & Regulations

Contacts