Gauley Bridge, West Virginia sits at the confluence of the Gauley and New River systems at approximately 700 feet elevation. The area experiences four distinct seasons with mid-summer temperatures averaging around 85°F while winter lows can drop into the 20s. Campsites near Gauley Bridge typically feature a mix of gravel and grass tent pads with varied terrain that can be challenging to level on during rainy periods.
What to do
Kayaking from waterfront sites: New River Campground provides direct water access where you can launch small watercraft directly from your campsite. "I love bringing my kayak here to paddle around! Camp store is on premises, but other items can be picked up at the small stores within a half mile," notes Kenneth K. about the riverside experience.
Mountain biking accessible trails: At Arrowhead Bike Farm, biking trails connect directly to the campground. A camper explains, "Highly recommend this place. They have an assortment of accessible bike trails, bike shop, AMAZING FOOD (tacos, pretzels, spinach artichoke dip, etc.) spectacular local beers and PBR, GOAT PENS, camping, a pump track, and lots of cool things to do in the local area."
Swimming in clear lake waters: The beach area at Battle Run provides access to Summersville Lake's notably clear water. "It is one of the clearest lakes in the east, so scuba diving is also very popular here. Rock climbing is also a great use of these cliffs that surround the lake as well as cliff jumping," explains Hannah V., though she cautions this is "at your own risk as there are large rocks/boulders in the water below."
What campers like
Tent platforms on unique terrain: The New River Gorge Campground - American Alpine Club features elevated camping spots. "We were lucky to get campsite 23, which had a tent platform high up on a boulder. The campsite was fairly quiet and cozy!" reports Bansi D., highlighting the unusual camping terrain.
Secluded wooded sites: At Rifrafters Campground, campers appreciate the separation from main camping areas. Larry M. notes, "Up front is a regular campground but we are in the back, secluded and peaceful. Site 34. There are about 8 nice sites out back with water and electricity. Ken and staff are good. We were here in a travel trailer."
Clean modern facilities: The Outpost at New River Gorge impresses campers with its amenities. One guest remarked, "Bathrooms are nicer than our bathrooms at home. Friendly and helpful staff. There was low key live music Friday and a band/party Saturday night that was super fun." Jennifer N. adds, "The bathhouse was clean, big and heated."
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several riverfront campgrounds are located near active train tracks. At New River Campground, Tiffany D. notes: "Pro/con: the railroad is right across the river, so pretty nice to watch but at night it can be a little loud if you need silence to sleep."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between providers. Sammii D. reports at New River Campground: "Main downside for us is Verizon service is terrible. Perfect for the weekend getaway but not during work hours. AT&T is flawless though."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor to Chestnut Creek Campground explained, "We didn't have reservations but the manager told us to text him when we arrived after hours. Charge was per person not per site, but reasonable at $15. This seems to be common practice in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Adventures on the Gorge - Mill Creek offers multiple water activities. "The kids absolutely loved it all. The pool, views, food were all amazing. Again another old growth canopy for camping shade and friendly skunks visit every night. They keep the Raccoons away and didn't spray any one or any dogs," shares Fred R.
Playground facilities: Rifrafters Campground provides play areas for children. Melissa O. commented, "The playground was great for our daughters to burn off some energy. We would stay here again, especially for a weekend to see the area."
Family-friendly hiking: Multiple accessible trails are available for younger hikers. A camper at Babcock State Park shared, "Hiking was great and my young children hiked all of it with us. Overall, highly recommended. Roads through the park from the campground to the main part of the park are really narrow and seem like you aren't supposed to be there but are well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region require leveling equipment. A camper at Chestnut Creek Campground reported, "This is a quiet campground, with lots of space and site options, run independently by a family. Most sites are simple with just a picnic table and fire pit. There are lots of trees in between many of the sites for great privacy."
Access road considerations: The mountainous terrain creates challenging approaches to some campgrounds. Chris S. observed about New River Campground: "Note, the drive from Rt 19 to the campground is 8% grades both uphill and down, with twists, turns, and practical uturns with my 35ft. Fun for me, not for my wife lol."
Limited utility hookups: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. Holly S. mentioned: "RV sites are limited, but they're very nice. I wish they had water, and sewer would be an added bonus." Thomas H. noted: "My camper isn't very big so I put my passenger side wheels just on the edge of the gravel patio so my entry steps wouldn't be in the mud and I was nearly level."
