Gauley Tailwaters Campground, near Summersville, West Virginia, is a fantastic spot for those who love the great outdoors without breaking the bank. This free campground offers a laid-back vibe with sites that let you park right next to your tent, giving you a sense of privacy while you soak in the sounds of the nearby river.

The campground is basic but has what you need: clean bathrooms and a short walk to the Gauley River, which is a hotspot for whitewater rafting. Campers rave about the beautiful scenery, with one visitor saying, “Waking up to the sound of the river and then paired with the most gorgeous view—unbeatable.” Fire rings are available for evening gatherings, and you can enjoy a cozy campfire under the stars.

If you're into climbing or just want to explore, this location is close to the New River Gorge, making it a perfect base for adventure. Many campers have shared their experiences of meeting fellow climbers and families, creating a friendly atmosphere that keeps them coming back. Whether you're fishing, rafting, or just chilling by the water, Gauley Tailwaters Campground is a solid choice for a budget-friendly escape into nature.

Gauley Tailwaters Campground — Gauley River National Recreation Area

Summersville Lake, WV is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Summersville Lake is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Summersville Lake, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Summersville Lake

The Best Camping Near Summersville Lake, West Virginia

Close to any store you may need, flat &amp; comfortable sites, no bath house but potties are very convenient. Whether you're fishing, rafting, swimming or kayaking there's plenty of options here! 

Best free camping, HANDS DOWN

Whenever we go and rock climb at New River Gorge on a budget, we stay at this free site. They have CLEAN bathrooms, water hookups, showers, tables, fire rings, and grills. Each time we’ve stayed at the site, we’ve met really cool climbers and families. Great place for the adventurous group on a budget, or a family that would like to fall asleep listening to a river. Very close to Summersville Lake, where there is a lot of boating, deep water soloing, and hiking.

Free Camping with Amenities 

Simple. Free. Next to the dam

I stayed in 3 of the free campgrounds around &amp; this one was my favorite. There was a sink w running water in the bathrooms down by the dam. I expected the campsites to feel cramped but they are set up so that you park your car next to your site, &amp; that gives a lot of privacy. Fire rings &amp; sounds of running water from below as you sleep 😴

Great free campsite

there are bathrooms and tap water, but no electrical or showers. you park right next to your tent. you can walk down to the gauley river. you may see many white water rafters here for this reason. 

basic & free

The campsite was clean, quite and a  short walk to the river. Bathrooms available but less fancy and not as well maintained as a state park bathroom. I had great cell service. 
I’d stay here again plus I’m telling all of my climbing friends about this place for their New river gorge trips. 

Nice free camping on the river

This was the best camping experience. waking up to the sound of the river and then paired with the most gorgeous view. unbeatable. way worth the drive to get there. loved every minute

Photos of Gauley Tailwaters Campground — Gauley River National Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers