New River Gorge National Park West Virginia

New River Gorge National Park Overview

Located in southern West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of the United States’ newest national parks, designated in 2020. The park protects over 70,000 acres of rugged Appalachian landscape carved by the ancient New River—one of the oldest rivers in North America. Flowing north through deep canyons, the river has created a dramatic gorge with towering sandstone cliffs, dense forests, and sweeping scenic vistas.

At the heart of the park stands the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, a steel arch bridge that spans 3,030 feet across the gorge and rises 876 feet above the river below. It is one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the Western Hemisphere and a symbol of the region.

New River Gorge National Park Camping

All campgrounds are located on maintained gravel or dirt roads in somewhat remote locations within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The campgrounds are also all primitive – with no hook-ups, electricity, potable water, flush facilities, or dump stations.  All campsites are FREE and first-come, first-serve with no reservations available.

There are 4 campgrounds in the national park with drive-in campsites for small and medium RVs. Large RVs (over 25 feet) are not recommended at any campsite. RVs are only permitted at drive-in campsites.

Campgrounds with drive-in sites include: Army Camp, Glade Creek, Grandview Sandbar
and War Ridge. Other primitive campgrounds include Stone Cliff Beach, Brooklyn, Thayer, Meadow Creek and Gauley Tailwaters.

Group camping is also available for groups of 8 more people.

Campgrounds fill up very quickly, especially during the summer and on weekends.  Additional primitive drive-in campsites with the National Park Service are available at Gauley River National Recreation Area.

New River Gorge National Park Recreation Opportunities

The park is a premier destination for outdoor recreation, offering activities for a wide range of interests and skill levels:

• Whitewater Rafting: The New River is one of the most popular whitewater rivers in the eastern U.S., with both beginner-friendly sections and challenging Class III–V rapids.
• Rock Climbing: There are over 1,400 established climbing routes in the gorge.
• Hiking: More than 100 miles of trails wind through the park, leading to overlooks, waterfalls, and historic sites.
• Biking: Mountain biking trails, especially in the Arrowhead Trails system, provide scenic and technical rides.
• Fishing & Hunting: As a national preserve, certain areas allow regulated fishing and hunting.
• Scenic Drives & Photography: Numerous overlooks and winding roads offer breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding mountains.

Make a Reservation for New River Gorge National Park

Amenities

• BBQ Grills
• Cell Service - None
• Cell Service Poor
• Dumpsters
• Fire Pit
• Fire Rings
• Grills
• Pets OK
• Trash Collection
• Visitor Center

Activities

• Biking
• Fishing
• Fly Fishing
• Hiking
• Historic Sites
• Horseback riding
• Kayaking
• Mountain Biking
• Nature Trails
• Photography
• Picnicking
• Rafting
• Stargazing
• Water Sports
• Whitewater Kayaking
• Wildlife Viewing