The best camping in Gauley River National Recreation Area, WV

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100% (41)

The best camping near Gauley River National Recreation Area, WV

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Mountaintop Retreat

1. Mountaintop Retreat

97%
(175)
62km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Jumping Branch, WV
Voted #2 campground in West Virginia by Hipcamp guests!! - Huge Thank You to you guys! Place your booking before 10-31-25 for a free bag of firewood Mushroom Trail featuring full size DoDo birds and giant connect 4 game is now open and free to all guests. We are located just 15 minutes from New River Gorge State Park. Corn hole boards are provided. Want to see 5 star panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains? This ultra-safe, ultra-private property is located only 10 minutes off interstate 77. There is only one farm past ours so road traffic is very minimal. Plenty of room to do what you and your pets want to do while exploring on our 60 acres. Come enjoy the view and recharge and relax in peace and quiet. The sun rises up behind the view and lets you see just a little further. It is nothing short of amazing. The sunrise and the stars out here on a clear night are two of the best things this mountain has to offer. It will not disappoint. We can accommodate up to a 35ft RV. The best part is no long walk for the best views! You can park at the campsites and camp on flat ground. Each campsite features a bench and a camp cooktop. Nothing is needed to use the cook tops other than a campfire. The area has many parks, rivers and trails for fly fishing, kayaking, biking, hiking, horseback riding, bird watching, and photography, etc. View stars as only those miles away from any light can experience. The crickets and whippoorwills will sing you to sleep. Google link, trail map, and campsite location map will be emailed the day of arrival. Close to: Winterplace Ski Resort New River New River Gorge State Park Fayetteville Rafting & Tourism Camp Creek State Park Little Beaver State Park Grandview State Park Pipestem State Park Twin Falls Resort Babcock State Park Kanawha State Park Hawks Nest State Park Pinnacle Rock State Park Brush Creek Falls Bluestone State Park Sandstone Falls State Park
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$73
 / night
Starry Nights New River Gorge

2. Starry Nights New River Gorge

100%
(166)
67km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Hinton, WV
Best Dark Sky Hipcamp in the US 2025 Best in West Virginia 2025 Welcome to Starry Night New River Gorge of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Starry Nights NRG is 88 acres of mountain top land in the heart of Southern WV with easy access to a lake, rivers, State Parks, and NRG National Park. Enjoy long range views to the East and West of the Appalachian and Allegheny Mountains. See the sun rise and fall beyond the distant blue ridge lines as you await vast night skies free of light pollution. Watch the smoke rise from the forests creating clouds after a foggy morning or rain. Discover cliffs, caves, springs and more as you adventure the land. Hike the terrain with the East and West side of the property providing different experiences. All wildlife is in abundance and bird watchers rejoice, the forests and fields are alive. Enjoy the peace, still and quiet that comes with seclusion deep in the mountains. There are currently three camping sites available. Each one comes with a picnic table, fire ring, trash can and an outhouse. Cell phone and satellite service is excellent on the property. Benefits of being at the top. ••• Times include 15 minute descent from property to bottom of mountain ••• • 20 minutes to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve • 30 minutes to NRGNP: Sandstone Falls • 35 minutes to NRGNP Sandstone Visitor Center • 15 minutes to historic downtown Hinton, stores, groceries and gas • 15 minutes to 2000 acre Bluestone Lake State Park and Wildlife Management Area, Bertha location. 20 minutes to Bluestone Lake Marina. 25 minutes to Bluestone Lake Wildlife Management, Indian Mills • 15 minutes to Greenbrier River • 15 minutes to New River • 20 minutes to Bluestone River • 35 minutes to Pipestem Resort State Park • 70 minutes to New River Gorge Bridge
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$53
 / night
One RV site, Limitless sunrises

5. Hilltop Sunrise Bunkie, Van Life

100%
(22)
30km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 4 sites · RVs · Oak Hill, WV
Hilltop Sunrise has three unique lodging opportunities: Rustic Bunkie, Single Van Life Overnight Parking Site, and Standalone RV/Camper site. The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is home to just about any outdoor activity you can think of: fishing, boating, rock climbing, mountain biking, swimming, whitewater rafting, stand-up paddle boarding, canoeing, hiking, bi-plane rides, and more. Nearby towns of Oak Hill, Fayetteville, and Beckley have local and national chain restaurants offering burgers, sandwiches, pizza, tacos and fish. Multiple local shops roast, grind and brew unique coffee. Into shopping? Oak Hill and Fayetteville are full of fun outdoor activities as well as places to to find antiques, collectables, one of a kind gifts, local and regional hand-made goods. Fayette County has it all!
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$20
 / night
Arrowhead Bike Farm & Campground

7. Arrowhead Bike Farm & Campground

100%
(50)
20km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · Fayetteville, WV
Welcome to Arrowhead Bike Farm, our unique gathering point for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds in the New River Gorge National Park. Convenient Camping and Adventuring: Our campground lays within seconds to an entrance into the New River Gorge National Park! From our Bike Farm, you can easily access the park’s best mountain biking, hiking trails and climbing routes. Explore the Arrowhead stacked-loop trail system and the Long Point Trail right from your campsite, or take a short drive to Cunard’s public put-in and take-out for boating adventures. Nearby, you’ll also find Kaymoor Top, a premier rock climbing destination and an unforgettable hike through the remains of coal history and an option to descend 821 stairs. Gatewood to Fayetteville: Fayetteville, a vibrant town teeming with culture and charm, is just minutes away. Alternatively, hike in to town via the scenic Timber Ridge Trail that crosses Wolf Creek. Dine Amidst Nature: Whether you’re drawn to the rustic allure of outdoor deck dining or the cozy atmosphere of The Handle Bar + Kitchen indoors. After a day filled with paddling, biking, hiking, or climbing adventures, you will see a diverse array of locally sourced and nationally acclaimed craft beers. Meet Our Legendary Goats: Say ‘baaa!’ to our beloved goats, who have become a charming part of the Arrowhead Bike Farm experience. They’re sure to bring a smile to your face as you enjoy the farm’s serene surroundings. Nature’s Haven: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of our location, where birds and pollinators thrive. The farm’s natural beauty creates a peaceful atmosphere that complements your adventure into America’s newest National Park. Join us at Arrowhead Bike Farm and embark on a journey to explore America’s newest National Park. Be sure to check our event calendar for exciting happenings throughout the season. Your adventure awaits!
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$18
 / night
Rv/car/tent pad with patio

8. Mountain Magnolia Forest Farm

94%
(97)
16km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fayetteville, WV
8 acres of beautiful forested land with a small creek running nearby the campsite. WALKING distance to New River Gorge National Park! Approx 5min walk across edmond-lansing rd to short creek/head house trail. Hiking to views of the gorge, down to the river and plenty of climbing. Endless wall is 2 min drive down the road, some of the best hiking and climbing in the gorge! Beauty Mountain overlook is 1.5 miles away. Campsite is off of a private neighborhood road. GPS will NOT take you to our place. It will send you to the neighbors, so please follow written directions from host. We don’t want to burden our neighbors. Thank you! There is a small fire ring, bring dry wood and make sure to put your fire completely out anytime you wont be attending it, this is the woods. ALL are welcome. This space is a safe place, and prejudice or hate will not be tolerated. Thank you for treating others with respect and kindness.
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$32
 / night
Ray's Campground

9. Ray's Campground

97%
(139)
8.5km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hico, WV
Ray's Campground is a picturesque camping facility located in Hico, West Virginia. Nestled in the heart of nature, this campground offers a serene and tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area. The campground is situated amidst lush greenery, with towering trees providing shade and a sense of privacy to campers. The natural landscape of the area creates a peaceful atmosphere that allows visitors to unwind and connect with nature. Ray's Campground offers a variety of camping options to cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer tent camping or RV camping, you'll find suitable accommodations here. The campground provides spacious campsites with fire rings and picnic tables, allowing you to have a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. One of the highlights of Ray's Campground is its proximity to the scenic New River Gorge National River. This nationally recognized park offers breathtaking views of the New River and its impressive gorge. Visitors can engage in a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders of the area. In addition to the stunning natural surroundings, Ray's Campground provides amenities to enhance your camping experience. The facilities may include clean restrooms with showers, and a communal gathering area where you can socialize with fellow campers. Whether you are seeking solitude in nature or looking to engage in thrilling outdoor adventures, Ray's Campground in Hico, WV, offers a welcoming and scenic environment for a memorable camping getaway.
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$25
 / night
The Lil Red Ranch House

13. CB Ranch Camp -Almost Heaven cabins

100%
(66)
64km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Lewisburg, , WV
The cabins are primitive, no electric or water. There are solar lights inside and and out also a propane wall heater for chilly nights. This is comfortable camping in the Beautiful Mountains of WV. There is a shower house with instant hot water and outside spigots for water, a porta potty, a fire-pit for cooking and camp fires at night while star gazing. The property is over 100 acres in Greenbrier county WV. There is a lot of history in this area. There are tons of wildlife on the property as well. We have awesome trails with GREAT Views for hiking or horse back riding should you decide to bring your own equine. Pets are allowed with prior notice (not to be left unattended in the cabins). We have a private dog park that you will have access to on the property. We also offer doggie daycare & boarding here at the farm (prior proof of vaccine is required) should you need our services. We also house horses/ponies/ goats/sheep/geese/ducks & chickens here on the farm. We are located 4 miles from downtown Lewisburg which has wonderful stores, antique shops and restaurants. Some of the attractions in town include Toot (taste of our town) , The Chocolate festival, WV State Fair, Carnegie Hall not to mention The Greenbrier Resort which is only 15 mins away. Also in the area is the Greenbrier River Trail 77 miles long for hiking, biking and horseback riding. Greenbrier State Forrest , Beartown State Park, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, Cranberry Glades Botanical Area, Scenic highway, Lost World Caverns & Pomona Salt Cave and Spa. Close by is Hawk Knob Hard Cider & Mead, Smooth Ambler Distillery and Greenbrier Valley Brewing company etc. To many things to list this is just a few. Come visit WILD WONDERFUL WEST VIRGINIA you wont be disappointed.. NOTE : Also check out our other cabins "PONDVIEW CABIN" " Lil Red Ranch house" & "Fireside Cabin"
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$36
 / night
Gesundheit! Institute - Patch Adams

14. Gesundheit! Institute - Patch Adams

85%
(41)
67km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Hillsboro, WV
Gesundheit! resides on a 320-acre pristine tract of farm + mountain land in rural West Virginia with gardens, meadows, creeks, waterfalls, a lake, clean air + water. We have more than two miles of trails through a beautiful hardwood forest ensuring your stay will be spent in close proximity to nature. Campsites are equipped with fire rings, access to clean drinking water, an outdoor shower + a composting toilet just a short walk from the sites. We offer fishing, canoeing, hiking, guided hikes, plant + mushroom walks, guided tours of the Gesundheit property, buildings, plus much more. We also grow many seasonal vegetables that are available for purchase during your stay. Ask us about availability when booking! The Gesundheit! Institute was founded by Patch Adams, M.D. + continues to function as a nonprofit focused on community health initiatives. We host many educational workshops throughout the year so make sure you check out upcoming events on our website at patchadams.org ! The beautiful Greenbrier River (the location of our favorite swimming hole) is a 5 minute drive down Locust Creek Rd + a 2 minute drive to the historic Locust Creek covered bridge. The small town of Hillsboro (birthplace of Nobel Prize winning author Pearl S. Buck) is 5 miles away with a restaurant (The Hillsboro Public House) + two gas stations. We are surrounded by the Monongahela National Forest with many state parks available less than a 15 minute drive from the property. There are many remarkable places to see while you're visiting; Cranberry Wilderness area, Watoga State Park, Bear Town State Park, Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park, the Highland Scenic Highway + a little further North up 219 is Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort; a favorite for skiing + snowboarding, mountain biking, music (4848 Festival) + many other outdoor activities!
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$44
 / night
Bluestone Camp & Retreat

15. Bluestone Camp & Retreat

100%
(37)
71km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Hinton, WV
Bluestone Camp & Retreat is a Presbyterian Summer Camp Program with organized summer youth and family camp activities over 4 weeks in June and July, and a three-season Retreat Destination for a variety of church, non-profit, and family groups April through November. We are a ministry of the Presbytery of West Virginia (PCUSA) serving member congregations as well as many other church and non-profit organizations. Bluestone has been in operation since 1953. Our Mission is to provide experiences that are character building in nature through Summer Camping Programs and other programmatic events for children, youth, and adults; and to provide opportunities for recreation, rest, and renewal through the use of our facilities as a Center of Christian Hospitality. We have five camp sites that overlook the Bluestone Lake Reservoir.  Each is a clearly defined 60' x 20' space along one side of a level grass field, and each is equipped with a 50/30/20 amp electric pedestal, water spigot, sewer drop, picnic table, and an above ground steel campfire pit. There is also a shower house available for Hipcampers to use.   We have two price points: 1. Our Regular Price per night is $35 based on double occupancy. Each additional person (ages 12 and older, max = 6 people per site) is $10. 2. Our price increases to $50 per night for the months of June and July which is our high season. Each additional person (ages 12 and older, max = 6 people per site) is $10. Youth and Children ages 11 and younger are free, so keep that in mind when you select the number of guests in your party!
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$42
 / night
Our best of 4 swimming holes. They are small ponds. This one is about 8 ft deep

17. W.T. Farm?

96%
(14)
75km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Union, WV
What makes W.T. Farm special is the diversity of textures of the landscape. We have great mountain top views, as well as, a deep holler with cliffs, rock outcroppings, and waterfalls. The fields are full of fruit and nut trees and there are 5 ponds. Each of these supports its own flora and fauna. I acquired stewardship of this land 35 years ago and have developed perennial orchards wherever possible. I started with pears and have branched out into pawpaws, apples, persimmons, currants, black walnuts etc. and I boast that I planted the first commercial hickory oil orchard in the world. I am an eccentric horticulturalist and graft cultivar varieties onto existing trees like oaks, hickories, black walnuts, and even the maligned invasive honeysuckle, autumn olive and multiflora rose. Just last year I bought an adjoining farm that opened up 50 acres of more orchard planting. It is on top of the mountain and offers an expansive view of the valley and ridge system that defines our region. Funny thing is that because the land between the old farm and the new farm is divided by cliffs in the holler the only way to get from one to the other is a 12 minute drive or vigorous hiking. On this new land is a historic log cabin I am renovating that is said to be one of the original settler's cabin on the mountain. Because of the amount of tree fruit I grow and the varied landscape, there is a rich diversity of birds and animals to be seen. One of my favorite walks is along the cliffs to the top waterfall where there is a sweet wading pool. I have also built a number of ponds and four of them are quite swimmable. One has a dock and is where we spend much summer time refreshing and frolicking. The farm is also a small (very small) licensed farm winery and we make and sell traditional hard cider from our apples and pears. Our cider can be purchased along with our nut oils and flours and other farm produce you may not be familiar with. We live to eat. Coming here is a gastronomical adventure! I run the Acornucopia project from here and from it we are developing a foragers network that would very much suit the lifestyle of hipcampers. We pay foragers for wild nuts they gather. Also often there is an opportunity to work on the farm harvesting and processing food. Let me know if that is something you would like to do. Treely Yours, Bill
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$36
 / night
Greenbrier River Campground

19. Greenbrier River Campground

100%
(6)
64km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 49 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Alderson, WV
Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Greenbrier River, our unique 8-acre campground offers an unparalleled outdoor experience from April through October. With tree-lined RV sites and serene wooded tent camping by the riverside, guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the privacy and tranquility of our beautiful surroundings. Our campground features a variety of accommodations: Full Hook Up RV Sites, primitive camp sites for tents by the river and fully equipped rental cabins - some even feature hot tubs! Guests can take advantage of our expansive riverfront, boasting a thousand feet of prime fishing spots and one of the finest swimming holes in the area. For those seeking adventure, we provide full-service tubing, kayaking, and canoeing trips in the heart of the Greenbrier's best paddling waters. With a range of Class I to Class III rapids, our offerings cater to paddlers of all skill levels, ensuring an exciting experience for everyone. Come and discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at our campground!
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$43
 / night
Main floor view of the loft.

20. New River Cabins and Tiny Houses

96%
(14)
14km from Gauley River National Recreation Area · 9 sites · Lodging · Hico, WV
Retreat to our tiny houses that look like miniature log cabins inside & enjoy the freedom of having the whole space to yourselves. Just like the kind in the TV shows, we built these last year. Our 18'x8' tiny house can sleep up to four. We are located right off of the main highway, in a campground/RV park ***off to the side in our own area where we have 4 tiny houses in total**. All are self contained and on grid with full electric & water. **No children under age 10 and not pet friendly**WE CLOSE THEM DOWN FOR THE WINTER FROM OCT 22, 2023 to MAY 1, 2024*** We are located exactly 2 & 1/2 miles north of the New River Gorge Bridge which is the edge of town of Fayetteville. We are close to the location that Airbnb put us, but due to West Virginia addressing it is the closest we could show on their map. Please ask us any questions you may have prior to booking about location, the tiny houses, activities, or anything!! ** No children under age of 10 and all tiny houses are not pet friendly** We love the location being 2 minutes from the New river and close to all national parks. The Gorge is an awesome site and we hope others enjoy are area as much as we do. Close to white water rafting and rock climbing areas too. Guests have access to the parking lot and the yards in back of the cabins. Feel free to bring a frisbie! Also have free access to free washing machines and dryers on the property as well. ***PLEASE NOTE*** Even though they can sleep up to 4 people, it may be very cramped inside with that many.**** Please note the tiny house is 18' X 8'. The first floor approximately 126 square feet including the bathroom. The second floor loft is approx. 80 square feet. Our water is city water on tap. ALSO, there are 4 of the tiny houses on that part of the campground. EVERY tiny house has it's own picnic table and fire ring. You will never share anything with any other tiny house guest. This is like the new tiny house hotels! All 4 of them are listed on Airbnb. Ask us for the Airbnb links to the others! Built just last year, our 18'x8' tiny house can sleep up to four. **Our tiny house ceilings are low, with just 6’2’’ in the kitchen. Clearance in the loft is about 4 feet. There’s a steep, narrow ladder into the open loft, which has a small railing, and doorways are narrow at 24 inches wide.** We have 4 tiny houses in total. We are located right off of the main highway, in a campground/RV park ***off to the side in our own area***. All of our tiny houses are completely self contained and on grid with full electricity and running water. ***Please note*** Even though they can sleep up to 4 people, it may be cramped inside with that many.**** Please note the tiny house is 18' X 8'. ***IN THE EARLY SPRING AND AGAIN IN THE FALL UNTIL END OF OCTOBER**There is a space heater and also a wall heater. Please note that these may not warm up to 80 degrees or more*** ***PLEASE NOTE****The couch on the first floor has 3 sections that are stacked and are made out of a regular 8 " memory foam , full size bed mattress. The mattress was cut into 3 sections and each section covered. This can sleep 2 people but please note it is a full size mattress, not a queen size. The 3 sections lay next to each other & become a regular full size mattress on the floor. *****The fitted sheet included in the bedding will keep all the pieces put tightly together side by side*** Please ask us any questions you may have prior to booking if you are unsure. There is a regular home mattress that is queen size in the loft as well. Both are very thick memory foam, regular bed mattresses with all pillows and bed linens provided. The bedding for the first floor bed will be laid out on the couch when you come in. There is a folding card table and 2 metal folding chairs in the tiny house. The full bathroom has a shower, toilet, and sink. We include towels, toilet paper, and hand soap. Usually the towel sets are underneath the bathroom sinks. You will have access to the laundry building where washers and dryers are free to use. Kitchenette has a kitchen sink with running water, mini fridge, coffee maker, microwave and a hot plate. We include a Mr Coffee type coffee maker, filters, coffee and styrofoam coffee cups. We have one pot, one pan (which are specific to the hot plate), paper plates, paper bowls, plastic ware -knives, forks, and spoons, & plastic cups. We also provide liquid dish soap and paper towels. There is a television but no satellite, cable or local stations. Feel free to bring your own DVD player, games, etc. and cords. We do not supply cords for your devices. **Please Note** There is NO wifi. The entire New River Gorge area does not have a good service provider yet. Cell service in our area is usually very good for most carriers, as we are high up and off the main highway. Your cellular hot spot should work very well. Outside the tiny house, there is a picnic table and fire ring that you’re able to use to cook and push aside the grate later to sit around a fire. Firewood is for sale for $5 per bundle if you call the phone # on the door. They will deliver it in a short period of time. You may want to bring lawn chairs as I do not supply them. Also any outdoor cooking utensils would be good to bring as well. Love playing games? This is the place for you! More than enough space outside to play bags, horses, washers, frisbee, soccer, kickball...you name it! Ask me about our space! There is plenty of parking to include trailers and toys. Our tiny houses are along the side on the inside of a campground. Feel free to have a friend camp outside the tiny house. We have no parking rules, feel free to park right by your tiny house. **Our tiny house ceilings are low, with just 6’2’’ in the kitchen. Clearance in the loft is about 4 feet. There’s a steep, narrow ladder into the open loft, which has a small railing, and doorways are narrow at 24 inches wide.** We clean and sanitize your space according to Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning protocol that was developed Internationally with EcoLab. Here are a few highlights: We sanitize high-touch surfaces, down to the doorknob. We use cleaners and disinfectants approved by global health agencies, and the cleaning team wear protective gear to help prevent cross-contamination. We clean each room using extensive cleaning checklists. If you would like extra cleaning supplies, please call us, do not message or email. We also comply with local laws, including any additional safety or cleaning guidelines. Please ask us any questions you may have. We have also own 7 cabins on one property about 2 miles north of the tiny houses. They are also listed in Airbnb, if you can't find their listing please message and I will send you the link to their listings. All are listed in Airbnb. Great for groups or family get togethers! Our intention is for the tiny house to be affordable and work with your schedule. If the price you see for the dates you want is not available, please message us and let us know what would work for you so we can try to accommodate you. **PLEASE NOTE** Our general area has a few food delivery services. However, most restaurants will also have carry outs available for you to pick up. Also our guests have ordered groceries at our local Walmart for pick up. This is very handy for groups.
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$192
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100% (41)

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The best camping in Gauley River National Recreation Area, WV guide

Overview

About

This national recreation area is an outdoor lover's dream vacation. There's 31 miles of river (25 from the Gauley and six from the Meadow), more than 100 rapids, and 11,000 acres of land. The wooded hills, green mountains, and deep woods are perfect for hiking and camping. Camp onsite if you so desire, or stay at Summersville Lake on the northeast side of the park.

When you're not lounging by the river, take a trip back to history at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield. The 156-acre area is a Civil War site that hosted a pivotal moment in history. Get your heart pumping on the class 5+ rapids, which are not for the faint of heart. If whitewater rafting is your thing, visit during the fall when the water is rough and wild, thanks to its 668-foot drop. Most of the fun happens in the upper Gauley at Sweet's Falls and Shipwreck. For water fun that's a little less turbulent, opt for some fishing at the lower Gauley or Meadow River. Both fall and spring are great fishing times.

To get to the Gauley recreation site, take Route 19 south from Summersville to Route 129 and turn northwest to the Summersville Dam and Upper Gauley River Put-In.

100%
41 Ratings · 18 reviews

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