February 22, 2026 | Andy Arthur.org

Andy | February 22, 2026

Harrisonburg, Virginia is located the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and is a sprawling college town, surrounded by rolling farm country, much of which is used for crop production -- corn for chicken, cattle and hogs but also a lot of forages. Heading to the west into West Virginia, you leave the farm country away for the hills and mountains of West Virginia.

Piseco-Powley Road is an approximately 17-mile unpaved route through the Ferris Lake Wild Forest. It offers a remote, primitive experience with no cell service and limited amenities.

Campsites Along Piseco-Powley Road

There are approximately 18 primitive campsites scattered along the road.

Characteristics: These are free, first-come, first-served sites. Most include a fire ring, and some feature a basic outhouse. Sites vary in size; some can accommodate trailers or small RVs up to 25 feet, while others are strictly for tent camping.
Key Locations:
- “Oregon” Area: Located around mile 6.35, this area near East Canada Creek is one of the most popular for camping due to its scenic water access.
- The Potholers: Near mile 8.2, there are well-used sites overlooking the confluence of Brayhouse Brook and East Canada Creek.
- Powley Place: Located around mile 10.9, this historic area features several campsites near a bridge over the West Branch of East Canada Creek.
- Sand Lake: Near the northern end (mile 17.1), campsites are located close to the trail leading to Sand Lake.

Nearby Trails and Activities

The area is a hub for low-impact recreation and exploring old-growth forests.

Hiking Trails:
- The Potholers: A very short path (100–500 feet) leads to unique geological water formations and small waterfalls on East Canada Creek.
- Big Alderbed Lake Trail: A 3.1-mile (one-way) trail starting near Powley Place that follows the creek to a remote lake.
- Goldmine Stream Falls: A 1.2-mile trail leading to a series of waterfalls.
- Clockmill Corners: A junction around mile 14.8 with trails leading to Clockmill Pond (1.1 miles) and Rock Lake (1.8 miles).
- Sand Lake Trail: A path at the northern end of the road leading to Sand Lake.
Water Activities: East Canada Creek is a primary attraction for trout fishing, wading at the Potholers, and seasonal kayaking or canoeing.
Winter Sports: The road serves as a major corridor for snowmobiling and is also used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when the gates are closed to motor vehicles.
Hunting & Wildlife: The region is heavily used for hunting in the fall and offers opportunities to spot black bears, deer, and diverse birdlife.