Volunteer Opportunities at Jennings Randolph Lake

Friends of Jennings Randolph Lake

The Friends of Jennings Randolph Lake (FJRL) are a project-oriented team that recruits and works with volunteers to organize and complete various projects that improve and strengthen the recreation mission at JRL. We are a group of people with common interests and goals that have formed a non-profit organization.  This commonality is best described by our mission statement:

Our mission is to promote and protect the natural and recreational resources of Jennings Randolph Lake by sponsoring and developing programs in resource management and enhancement, public education, recreational improvements and to provide an improved and sustainable wildlife and recreational area for future generations.

The first project completed by FJRL was the Lakeside Hiking Trail connecting Shaw Beach to the Howell Run Picnic Area. This beginner walking trail is approximately one mile in length and averages approximately six feet in width. One resting bench was installed along the trail in a clear area, affording a shady view of the lake.

Other projects include:

  • Campground Store Lease, operated by the group in the Robert W. Craig Campground (RWCC)
  • Construction of a new pavilion and Camp Store addition in the leased area of the RWCC
  • Adoption of the 3D Archery Course, as well as multiple archery tournaments each summer
  • Adopt-a-Highway Cleanup on Rt. 46 East from Elk Garden to the campground access road
  • Lake Cleanup Day and Barbeque at Jennings Randolph Lake
  • Sponsorship of weekend activities and interpretive programs in the campground
  • Assistance to park staff during special events, including the Annual People with Disabilities Deer and Turkey Hunt
  • Sponsorship of the annual National Public Lands Day program

FJRL started as an incorporated, non-profit organization in mid-2010. We are now a non-profit, tax-exempt corporation, registered with the Secretary of State in Charleston, West Virginia, and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.  Any donations or gifts to the Friends of Jennings Randolph Lake Inc. are tax-exempt and deductible.

Group meetings are held monthly at SureStay meeting room in Keyser, West Virginia (70 N Tornado Way, Keyser, WV 26726), or at Jennings Randolph Lake during the summer months.  Visitors and new members are always welcome! Please come and join us at one of our meetings and decide if you are interested in becoming a member.

Other volunteer opportunities

The JRL project also offers Camp Host volunteer opportunities to people who are interested in long-term camping in exchange for a 20 hour-per-week volunteer commitment. Camp host sites are equipped with full hook-ups such as water, sewer, and electric.  This is a great family or couples opportunity to receive a free camp site in exchange for volunteering in a family atmosphere!

For additional information on Friends of Jennings Randolph Lake or other JRL volunteer opportunities, contact Project Manager Charles Fenwick at 304-355-2346, or by email at Charles.E.Fenwick@usace.army.mil