New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Adventures
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia offers stunning cliffside views, a rich history in coal mining, and world-renowned opportunities for rock climbing and white-water rafting.
Popular Activities
Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
Entrance Requirements
Free access; no entrance fees.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall for mild weather and beautiful foliage.
Visitor Information
Canyon Rim Visitor Center and Sandstone Visitor Center.
Getting There
Accessible by U.S. Route 19; some roads may be seasonally closed due to weather.
Weather & Climate
Summers are warm with temperatures often in the 80s°F; winters can be cold, occasionally seeing light snow. Spring and fall feature mild temperatures and colorful foliage.
Conservation Efforts
Concerns include mitigating river pollution from historical coal mining and protecting the habitats of several rare species while balancing recreational use.
Camping in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.
Burnwood Campground
Located near the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, offering basic facilities with easy park access.
Thayer Campground
Remote location accessible by boat or hiking, ideal for serene riverside camping.
Top Trails
Endless Wall Trail
Renowned for vistas along sandstone cliffs, making it a scenic favorite.
Long Point Trail
Leads to a prominent overlook offering spectacular views of the gorge and bridge.
Kaymoor Miners Trail
Descends to historic coal mine ruins with breathtaking sights of waterfalls.
Fayetteville Rail Trail
Features a scenic walk through lush forests on an old rail line.
Trailblazer Tips
Try to visit during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds on popular trails.
Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and vivid foliage, but be aware of seasonal rain.
Camping can fill up quickly during peak seasons; consider reserving in advance.
Bring sturdy water shoes for slippery river rocks if planning to partake in water activities.