New River Gorge National River provides opportunities for primitive camping only. Camping areas are located along the river. These primitive camping areas have no drinking water or hookups, and limited restroom facilities. All sites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no fees for camping, but campers are required to register with a ranger at the earliest opportunity. Stays are limited to 14 days in the same area. Developed campgrounds are available at state parks and private campgrounds throughout the surrounding area.

There are five primitive camping areas within the park. All are located on maintained gravel roads, but are often located some distance from service stations, markets, and telephones. All of the camping areas provide easy access to the river for fishing and swimming. When swimming, be advised that the New River has powerful currents, rocky banks and shoals, and sudden dropoffs. Always treat the New River with respect and wear a life jacket!

The five camping areas are:

• Stone Cliff Beach - Located off Route 25 near Thurmond. Follow the Stone Cliff signs. Six walk-in and one vehicle site.
• Army Camp - Located on an unmarked dirt road, off Route 41 near Prince. Coming from Beckley, it is the first left after crossing the New River. Eleven vehicle sites.
• Grandview Sandbar - Located on Glade Creek Road, off Route 41 near Prince. Coming from Beckley, it is a well-marked right hand turn before crossing the New River. Four walk-in and twelve vehicle sites.
• Glade Creek - Located at the end of Glade Creek Road, off Route 41 near Prince. Coming from Beckley, it is a well-marked right hand turn before crossing the New River. Six walk-in and five vehicle sites.
• War Ridge/Backus Mountain - Turn right onto Backus Road, drive approximately 1 ½ miles and turn right at the gravel road at the first National Park Service bulletin board (SR 22/7). War Ridge Campground is located on your right approximately ½ mile off Backus Road. Eight vehicle sites.
  

Regulations

At Army Camp, Glade Creek, Grandview Sandbar, Stone Cliff and War Ridge camping is permitted on a first-come, first-served basis as follows:

 

 

• Two vehicles permitted per site.
• Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
• Two camping units (tent or RV) with a maximum of 8 people per site.
• Camp only in designated campsites.
• Limit of 14 days within a 28-day period.
• Public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and possession of alcohol by minors is prohibited.
• Possession and use of firearms is prohibited in the camping area.
• Pets must be kept on a leash.
• You are in a national park area, help protect it:
• Littering is strictly prohibited.

Use existing fire rings.

• Burn only dead wood found on the ground.
• Do not drive nails into trees, or hang lanterns against trees.
• Please use the provided toilet facilities.
• Broken glass is a hazard to all -- use plastic and aluminum containers when possible.
• Respect other river users.

Group Camping

The park has two camping areas available for group camping. One is located off U. S. Route 19 across from Canyon Rim Visitor Center. The other is located along the New River at Dunglen (across from Thurmond). Both these sites require a Special Use Permit.

More Information

For general camping information, call the main park number at 304-465-0508 (weekdays only).

To request an application for group camping, call 304-465-6517 (weekdays only).