Howell Run Picnic Area

Campground · West Virginia · 3 bookable sites ·

Managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers

Jennings Randolph Recreation Area (Recreation Area) · Open Access

3
Bookable sites
20 ft
Max rig length
up to 30
People per site
1
Accessible site
1,438 ft
Elevation
HRPA
Photo: USACE · Recreation.gov

Overview

The Howell Run Picnic Area is a day use facility overlooking Jennings Randolph Lake, providing a beautiful backdrop for picnicking, sightseeing and hiking. A nesting pair of bald eagles call Jennings Randolph Lake home. Bring binoculars for the lucky chance to spot a bald eagle.

Recreation

At the Howell Run Picnic Area, enjoy the panoramic view of the lake. Walk the Lakeside trail which connects the picnic area with the Shaw Beach area.

Facilities

Shelter #2 is handicap accessible and has running water. It is closest to the restroom and playground equipment. The Gazebo is located in the center of the picnic area. Shelter #1 is the first shelter as you drive in. Each shelter comfortably accommodates groups of up to 30 people in a lovely lakeside setting.

Natural Features

The Lake spans 952 acres in the rugged hills of the West Virginia Allegany Mountains.

Nearby Attractions

A mile down the road is Shaw Beach where you can enjoy swimming. The project offers facilities for hiking, fishing, biking, swimming, boating and camping.

The facts

  • 3 bookable sites
  • 3 sites for day use only
  • 1 accessible site
  • Vehicles up to 20 ft
  • Up to 30 people per site
  • Loops: Howell Run Picnic Area

Site types

  • 3 Group Shelter Nonelectric

Amenities

  • Picnic tables
  • Grills
  • Shade
  • Pets allowed

Not recorded upstream: electric hookups, water hookups, sewer hookups, campfires allowed, fire pits.

Book on Recreation.gov

3 campsites at Howell Run Picnic Area

Check-in 7:30 AM · Check-out 7:30 PM

SiteLoopTypeEntrySurfaceMax rigPeople
GazeboHowell Run Picnic AreaGroup Shelter Nonelectric—Paved20 ft25 🐾
Shelter 001Howell Run Picnic AreaGroup Shelter Nonelectric—Paved20 ft30 🐾
Shelter 002Howell Run Picnic AreaGroup Shelter Nonelectric—Paved20 ft30♿ 🐾

Getting there

From Cumberland, MD, take US 220 south to US 50W, go west to WV 42N, go north to WV 46E. Follow the signs to the Howell Run Picnic Area.

39.41694, -79.12722 · 39°25'1.0"N 79°7'38.0"W

Directions (Google Maps) · Directions (Apple Maps)

Typical weather

Typically 81°F in Jul, down to 36°F in Jan.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
High °F363948616977818073625040
Low °F202128374756605952413225
Precip in3.02.63.33.74.64.64.13.53.82.92.42.9

1991–2020 averages from the nearest NOAA station, 6.5 mi away — not measured at the facility itself, and elevation can make a real difference over that distance.

Map

More photos

Member photos

Common questions about Howell Run Picnic Area

Can you reserve a site at Howell Run Picnic Area?
Yes, Howell Run Picnic Area is reservable through Recreation.gov.
How many campsites does Howell Run Picnic Area have?
3 sites.
What is the maximum RV length at Howell Run Picnic Area?
20 ft. That is the longest vehicle the sites here are recorded as taking; individual sites may be shorter.
Are pets allowed at Howell Run Picnic Area?
Yes, pets are allowed at Howell Run Picnic Area.

Camping near Howell Run Picnic Area

Comments

Contact

Recreation.gov last updated this record on 2026-02-25.

Facility information and photographs from Recreation.gov (RIDB). SpotOpened is not affiliated with Recreation.gov or any federal agency.