blue bend recreation area

This was my second trip to Blue Bend and I must say that I'm equally as impressed by the breathtaking view as I was 2 years ago on my first visit! I've been to several watering holes, rivers, lakes and ponds but Blue Bend is the cleanest and most beautiful place I've been to swim! There is little silt and dirt as the bottom consists of rocks/pebbles (I highly recommend river/rock/swimming shoes) and the locals have always been friendly. My best friend lives in WVA so she shared this spot with us, and now we visit each time we travel to WVA. The water is crisp, cool and clean, you feel shower fresh after a swim. My son particularly enjoys hunting for snails and crawfish, and I enjoy the shallow waters so I can sunbathe knowing he's not in immediate danger of drowning (ankle-calf depth for my 5 yr old). There are definitely deeper waters (deep enough to dive into from the mountain side) as well for swimming, but the shallow area is large enough for younger children to enjoy with a bit of freedom. This area is obviously loved by locals as everyone keeps it clean, there was no litter, and dogs were leashed. There are a couple picnic tables and a grill if you want to cookout, I've not camped here as we just plan a day trip but there is a camp site somewhere. There's also a parking lot and restroom facilities. I recommend that you go during the warmest part of the day as the water is refreshingly cool, if you go later than 4-5pm you'll probably be chilly as the mountain air cools off in the evening. The only drawback is the drive up to Blue Bend - I get very anxious with the one lane road (that's one lane period so you have to share the road with others driving in opposite direction). I always make my friend drive as she is more familiar with the road and curvy mountain roads make me nervous. Other than that, this is my favorite spot!