Cranberry River Corridor
The Cranberry River Corridor offers a unique blend of river ecosystems and mountainous terrain contained within a 14,000-acre area. Sections reside next to a registered National Natural Landmark, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area. Elevation ranges from 4,443 feet on Kennison Mountain to 650 feet along the Cranberry River. The Cranberry River is a popular location for anglers, and the state regularly stock sections of the river, you can find the schedule here.
There are 7 Adirondack-style camping shelters located along the gated segments of Forest Roads 76 and 102.
These shelters are free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Each shelter includes a combination fire ring/grill, picnic table, and a nearby vault toilet.
The shelters and amenities have been replaced in recent years by a dedicated group of volunteers. Please respect their efforts and treat the area with respect by packing out all trash, putting out campfires, and practicing other leave no trace techniques.
Highlighted Trails
Kennison Mountain Trail #244 – A true mountainous 9.5-mile trail, the northern terminus can be accessed FR 76, and the southern terminus can be accessed via Route 39, where a parking lot is available for visitors. This trail does cross Route 39 and intersects with multiple trails. If finishing at the Northern end, the trail features over 1,000 decent onto FR 76.
Cowpasture Trail #253 – This 6-mile trail can be combined with FR 102 to make a loop back to the South Fork Parking Lot. This trail is an easy ride with views of the Cranberry Glades Bog and the historical Mill Point Federal Prison.
Cranberry Ridge Trail #223 – A 5.8-mile ride along the ridge on a singletrack trail. Amble parking at Bishop Knob Campground, where you can quickly get on Cranberry Ridge, Bishop Knob loop or Adkins Rockhouse Trail.
General Information
Maps and Guides
- Cranberry River Corridor
- West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Regulations and Guides
- WVDNR Trout Stocking Schedule
- Cranberry Wilderness Are Information
- Cranberry Wilderness Area Map
General Guidelines
- Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not build a camp within 200 feet of stream.
- Trails can be muddy and wet so be prepared to get your feet wet. Wear proper footwear.
- Bring drinking water; otherwise, treat water from streams and springs before drinking to kill harmful pathogens.
- During hunting seasons, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.
- Light weight camping stoves are encouraged.
Open year-round.
Sites are not reservable. Sites are on a first come, first serve basis.
- Maximum length of stay is 14 days.
- Check-out time is 2:00 p.m.
- Practice proper food storage techniques as bears and other wildlife are abundant in this area.
- Dogs are permitted if on a leash at all times. Leash must be 6 ft. or shorter. Food storage order applies to pet food also.
- Please see bulletin boards for more information.
- Do not drive nails into shelters
- Pack out all trash
- Only build fires within designated fire rings at camping shelters
Getting There
Directions
From Richwood travel one mile east on State Route 39/55, then north on Forest Road 76 to the parking area near the gate at Cranberry Campground or continue 39/55 to Forest Road 102 to South Fork Trailhead.
Facility and Amenity Information
Restrooms
Vault Toilets are available near shelters and campgrounds.
Water
Potable water is available at this site.
Potable water is available seasonally at Campgrounds
Recreation Opportunities
Biking - Mountain Info
Forest Road 76, from South Fork Parking Lot to Cranberry Campground, is approximately 16 miles long and good for gravel road biking. The trails off FR 76 and Route 39 are often used by mountain bikers.
Backpacking Info
Backpacking Tips
- Bring drinking water; otherwise, treat water from streams and springs before drinking to kill harmful pathogens. Vigorously boil local water for at least three minutes or use a filter which is specifically labeled for removal of Giardia. Chemical treatments (iodine and chlorine) are not considered effective.
- Freezing temperatures and snow can occur anytime of the year, but mainly between October and April. Dress for the weather.
- Practice Leave No Trace outdoor ethics: do not build a camp within 200 feet of stream.
- Light weight camping stoves are encouraged.
- If using firewood, it must be dead AND down branches only. Keep fires small.
- During hunting seasons, hikers are encouraged to wear high visibility clothing.
Fishing - River/StreamFishing - River/Stream Info
Fishing is allowed. Cranberry River has multiple sections of Catch and Release, please check regulations before fishing in this area. A valid West Virginia State Fishing License is required, along with a Conservation Stamp and Trout Fishing Stamp.
HuntingHunting Info
Hunting is allowed within the Cranberry River Corridor Area. Hunters must be 150 yards from any occupied area or structure before discharging weapons. They must also abide by all state hunting regulations.
Horseback Riding Info
Forest Road 76, starting from South Fork Parking area to Cranberry Campground, is approximately 16 miles long and good for horseback riding.
XC Skiing/Snowshoeing Info
The road and trails are not groomed for cross-country skiing. Both road and surrounding trails can offer a good venue. The trails tend to be wet at times.
Interpretive Areas/Exhibits Info
The Cranberry Glades is located approximately .2 miles south of South Fork Parking Area and is a great location to view plants, wildlife and beautiful scenery. The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center is also located approximately 3 miles from the Cranberry Glades Botanical Area and offers many learning opportunities for visitors.