Long Pool

[NaturalStateReb]

I'm surprised that more people haven't heard of Long Pool.  It's long been known as one of the best spots in the River Valley by people who live in the Russellville area, but doesn't seem to be as well known by people out of the area. 

Long Pool is a great camping area along the Big Piney Creek.  For a Forest Service site, it's fairly large--40 sites--20 of which have hookups.  It's extremely well maintained and there's plenty to do here.  The pick sites are going to be those just to the right of the main shower/bathhouse along the creek.  These have hookups and the best views.  On nice weekends, you'll have to show up early to get these spots. 

Long Pool, as the name suggests, is located alongside a pool in the Big Piney, and the swimming beach here should keep the kids occupied.  The large hill on the opposite shore makes for a lovely setting.  There's a playground, an open area suitable for games, and at least one very nice pavilion for group outings.

[NaturalStateReb]

Too many R.V.'s seeking too much television reception.  This campground used to be a primo spot to access the river during the spring, but now I don't know why they don't just build some condo's so the R.V. crowd could forego having to tow the darn things down there.  Pass it up and keep going up Hwy. 7 to 123 and then west to Haw's Creek Falls.

[cliftoncb]

There is some heavy duty rock work going on here.  It look like a canoe put-in similar to the one at Redding campground is being built.

There are three loops.A & B don't have hook ups and look to have water scattered through out for shared use.  The are some nice river vies from the loops.  Loop C has the hook ups.  There was only one RV last night.  This is where we stayed (it's nice to have electricity when you are car camping).

The bathrooms in loop C are closed right now.  There is a bathroom/shower house building down by the river next to the main parking lot.  These could use a good hosing down or power washing, but they were functional.  The water in the showers doesn't get much above cold, but when you are dirty and stinky enough, you'll go for it.

If you follow a trail out of loop B (?) to a creek and then turn right up the creek, you will find a stunning set of waterfalls.  The first in not very tall but I took what I think my be my best picture ever there.  Scramble over tumble rocks and you get top the Long Pool Falls proper.  It's worth scrambling up to the based.  It is gorgeous and impressive.  Watch where you put you feet though.  Carelessness could get you a twisted or broken ankle.