Citizens Bank parking lot
Parking lot
309 Henry Ave, Elkins, WV 26241

Background: generated illustration, not a photograph of this location.
Plan Stuart's Shavers Fork river visit with supervision notes, seasonal access, separate day-use facilities and camping, plus four reviewed photos.
Swimming restriction
Use permitted river access and follow current signs. No lifeguard; swimming being listed does not establish permission to jump or dive.
Official sources checked:
Location
A closer look
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.




This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Recreation.gov lists river swimming and explicitly states that there is no lifeguard. Stuart is on Shavers Fork, not a lake. Follow current signs, supervise children and do not jump or dive. The recreation area may flood; check weather and notices before travel.
The concession operator describes day-use picnic areas, pavilions, restrooms and changing rooms alongside separate camping facilities. Confirm which services are operating and what your booking includes. Accessible buildings and parking do not establish an accessible route into the river. Check current charges rather than relying on historical prices.
The booking page says entrance gates are locked from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. and day use closes at 6 p.m. after Labor Day. Confirm posted hours for your visit. Call its facility-specific contact, 304-567-3082, for access questions. A September 21, 2026 report lists October 13 as the recreation area's closing date. Confirm services before travel; this is not a year-round river-use prohibition.
Follow live booking-page directions from Elkins to the signed entrance. The retained map pin is not a surveyed water entry. Four reviewed photos show river scenery, the entrance, a wooded picnic table and autumn day-use grounds. They do not establish safe depth, lifeguard coverage or current facility opening.
Follow live Recreation.gov directions from Elkins via Route 33, old Route 33 and Route 6 to the signed entrance. Retained coordinates are not a surveyed swimming entry.
Confirm seasonal services and posted hours before travel; the dated 2026 report lists an October 13 closing date.
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Use permitted river access and follow current signs. No lifeguard; swimming being listed does not establish permission to jump or dive. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Parking lot
309 Henry Ave, Elkins, WV 26241
Campground
5 Rainbow Dr, Elkins, WV 26241
Campground
Alpine Shores, Elkins, WV 26241
Campground
Elkins, WV 26241
Hiking area
Forest Rd 303, Bowden, WV 26254
Hiking area
Government Rd, Bowden, WV 26254
Hiking area
Canaan Loop Rd, Thomas, WV 26292
Federal government office
7409 Staunton Parkersburg Turnpike, Bartow, WV 24920
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Recreation.gov explicitly states there is no lifeguard. Supervise children and follow current restrictions.
No. Confirm which services are operating and included in your visit or reservation.
No. Ask the facility about the specific approach and assistance you need.
No. The reviewed photos provide historical recreation-area context, not present depth, water quality or opening evidence.
Use official history resources; no cabin booking promise inferred from prospectus text.
Four reviewed views show river scenery, the entrance and picnic-area context, not current depth or opening conditions.
Pack out litter and follow current food-storage and firewood notices.
Browse every listed natural swimming spot in West Virginia.
Compare nearby options around Elkins before you choose a route.
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Use this safety guide before entering any natural water.
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Use the live reservation page for dates and available sites; camping does not automatically include every day-use service.
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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