Nestled in the heart of West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park offers visitors breathtaking views, thrilling outdoor activities, and an unforgettable vacation experience. When planning your adventure to this natural wonder, it’s essential to find the perfect place to stay, giving you both comfort and convenience during your visit.
Fayetteville is a popular choice for travelers seeking proximity to the park, as it is located near the iconic bridge and Canyon Rim Visitor Center. For those looking to explore the southern parts of the park, consider the charming town of Beckley for its variety of New River Gorge lodging options. Whichever town you choose, there are accommodations to suit your needs, from cozy cabins to boutique hotels.
The New River Gorge area boasts a plethora of activities for all ages and interests. For adrenaline junkies, try your hand at world-class whitewater rafting or take a plunge from the famous bridge during Bridge Day, an annual event where thrill-seekers can legally parachute off the structure. History buffs will appreciate the park’s rich past, including remnants of the area’s booming coal mining industry, while nature lovers can explore the park’s 70,000 acres of gorgeous wilderness by foot, bike, or even horseback.
Where To Stay
Where to Stay near New River Gorge National Park
New River Gorge National Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. When planning your trip, there are various accommodation options to fit your needs. This section will help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit.
Hotels
Many hotels are available near the New River Gorge National Park. Some choices include the Quality Inn New River, located in Fayetteville, and the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – Beckley, WV. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and various amenities, such as free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and fitness centers.
- Quality Inn New River – 103 Elliots Way, Fayetteville, WV 25840
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – 125 Hylton Lane, Beckley, WV 25801
Motels
If you prefer motels for budget-friendly lodging, you’ll find options such as Hampton Inn Beckley. This motel offers clean and comfortable rooms with standard amenities.
- Hampton Inn Beckley – 110 Harper Park Drive, Beckley, WV 25801
Bed and Breakfasts
For a more intimate accommodation experience, consider staying at one of the many bed and breakfasts in the area. You can find several charming B&Bs on the New River Gorge CVB site.
Resorts
Adventures on the Gorge Resort is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a more all-inclusive vacation experience near the New River Gorge National Park. With various lodging options, such as cabins and vacation homes, and numerous outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone at this resort.
- Adventures on the Gorge Resort – 219 Chestnutburg Road, Lansing, WV 25862
Fun Fact
Did you know the New River Gorge Bridge, near Fayetteville, is the longest steel span in the western hemisphere and the third-highest in the United States?
Things to Do
During your visit to New River Gorge National Park, don’t miss out on activities like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking, and ziplining. And if you’re interested in history, you can explore the remains of the Nuttallburg coal mining complex.
Campgrounds and RV Parks
New River Gorge Campground
This campground is a wonderful option for visitors looking to experience New River Gorge National Park’s natural beauty. At the Meadow Creek Campground, you will find primitive tent-only sites in a wide-open meadow. Be sure to obtain a Special Use Permit from the park’s permit office at 304-465-6517 if you plan to camp here.
ACE Adventure Resort
ACE Adventure Resort is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a range of accommodation options, including rustic cabins, RV sites, and tent camping. Conveniently located near the park, ACE provides plenty of activities like whitewater rafting and ziplining. Check their website for more information on rates and reservations.
Adventures on the Gorge
Another great option near New River Gorge National Park is the Adventures on the Gorge resort. This facility boasts comfortable lodging, outdoor activities, and dining options. Activities within the resort include rock climbing, guided hikes, and mountain biking. Book your stay early as the resort tends to fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story
Did you know that the New River Gorge Bridge, located within the national park, is the third-highest vehicular bridge in the United States? This iconic structure attracts several visitors every year to admire its stunning architecture and the surrounding landscape.
Things to do
While visiting New River Gorge National Park, you can indulge in numerous activities such as:
- Hiking
- Rock climbing
- Whitewater rafting
- Fishing
- Mountain biking
- Wildlife viewing
Make the most of your trip by enjoying the area’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities during your stay at these campgrounds and RV parks.
Cabins and Vacation Rentals
When planning a trip to the New River Gorge National Park, a cozy cabin or vacation rental can offer an exceptional stay. These accommodations provide visitors with a chance to surround themselves with nature while still enjoying modern amenities and comforts. In this section, we will discuss different cabin and vacation rental options that cater to various preferences and budgets.
New River Gorge Cabins
New River Gorge Cabins offers fully furnished vacation cabins just minutes away from the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. These affordable, family-friendly cabins are perfect for honeymooners, friends, families, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. With three-bedroom options and spacious living areas, you can relax after spending your days exploring the park’s stunning landscapes.
Riverfront Retreats
For those seeking accommodations with direct access to the New River, Vrbo offers a variety of riverfront retreats. These vacation rentals come in various sizes, including one-bedroom options for smaller groups and three-bedroom options for larger parties. Most feature fully-equipped kitchens, satellite TV, outdoor decks, and even hot tubs, providing guests with a comfortable and memorable experience.
Rustic Cottages
Experience a more rustic yet charming vacation by staying at a West Virginia cabin rental near the New River Gorge. These accommodations include cabins, yurts, and treehouses that come with fully-equipped kitchens, satellite TV, spacious decks with hot tubs, and gas grills. Rustic cottages serve as an ideal base camp for many outdoor adventures in the New River Gorge area.
Fun Fact: The New River Gorge Bridge, the longest single-span arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, is a must-see attraction. It is also home to Bridge Day, an annual event where thousands of visitors gather to celebrate this engineering marvel with BASE jumping, rappelling, and other festivities.
Things to do: During your stay near the New River Gorge National Park, visitors can engage in a variety of activities, including hiking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and zip-lining, immersing themselves in the park’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Top Activities and Attractions
New River Gorge National Park offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors with various interests. In this section, we’ll cover some of the most popular things to do in the park, including hiking trails, whitewater rafting, and the iconic Bridge Walk.
Hiking Trails
There are numerous hiking trails in the park, perfect for exploring the beautiful landscape and getting up close with nature. One popular trail is the Castle Rock Trail, located in the Grandview section of the park. This area features vast picnic spaces, a small visitor center, and a large parking area for your convenience. Here are a few more trails you might want to check out:
- Endless Wall Trail
- Long Point Trail
- Kaymoor Miners Trail
Each of these trails offers unique views and opportunities to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the park.
Whitewater Rafting
For adrenaline junkies and adventure enthusiasts alike, New River Gorge National Park is an ideal destination for whitewater rafting. The park boasts some of the best rafting conditions in the country, with a great mix of rapids and calmer stretches, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced rafters. Several companies in the area offer guided rafting trips, ensuring an exciting and safe experience on the river.
Bridge Walk
One of the most iconic attractions in the park is the New River Gorge Bridge. This impressive structure spans the gorge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can participate in the Bridge Walk, a guided tour that takes you across the catwalk underneath the bridge. This thrilling and unique experience provides unbeatable views of the river, gorge, and forest landscape, all while standing 851 feet above the river.
Fun Fact: The New River Gorge Bridge is not only an attraction for visitors, but it also serves as host to an annual tradition called Bridge Day. On this day, the bridge is closed to traffic and thousands of people gather for various activities, including BASE jumping, rappelling, and zip-lining.
With countless activities and stunning natural beauty to explore, New River Gorge National Park certainly has something for everyone. Enjoy your time venturing into the park, whether you’re hiking, rafting, or taking in the view from the Bridge Walk!
