New River State Park
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New River State Park

4.8
·951 reviews·Laurel Springs, United States

A tranquil haven along the New River, offering camping, fishing, and serene water activities amidst natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for river activities

CrowdMedium
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New River State Park

New River State Park

Best Time

Summer mornings

Ideal for river activities

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil haven along the New River, offering camping, fishing, and serene water activities amidst natural beauty.

4.8
(951 reviews)

"This beautiful spot is a gem for outdoor enthusiasts and campers, offering a peaceful getaway."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛶 River Ready

Pack your kayak, canoe, or tube! The New River is perfect for a day on the water.

🥾 Trail Exploration

The perimeter trail offers varied elevation and lovely river views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New River Access

New River Access

Throughout the park

Enjoy the wide, placid river for kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing. Perfect for a day of aquatic fun.

Perimeter Trail

Perimeter Trail

Park perimeter

A scenic three-mile hike with varied elevation, offering beautiful river views and glimpses of old homestead ruins.

Campground Serenity

Campground Serenity

Campgrounds

Well-maintained campsites, some with walk-in access, provide a peaceful retreat amidst nature.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the River Life

New River State Park is a haven for water activities. Kayaking, canoeing, and tubing are popular, with easy river access points. Plan your water adventures in advance, especially during peak season, to make the most of this beautiful spot.

Campsite Considerations

While campsites are well-maintained and popular, some are walk-in only. Be prepared to carry your gear a short distance down gravel roads. Booking ahead is recommended, as this gem attracts many outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Ideal for river activities
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful hikes
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

New River Gorge is located in the beautiful state of West Virginia. Be sure to add all of these places to your list if you plan to visit. 📌Save for future trip planning + 🤜🏼tag your adventure buddy you’re taking with you! Facts About This Park 🌳70,000 acres of land 🌳home to the New River Gorge Bridge & it’s the longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere 🌳 Free Entry to this park 🌳 ...
rvahikergirl
1.6K likes • 39.9K views

🛶 River Ready

Pack your kayak, canoe, or tube! The New River is perfect for a day on the water. Reddit

🥾 Trail Exploration

The perimeter trail offers varied elevation and lovely river views. Reddit

🏕️ Campsite Comfort

Campsites are clean, but some require a short walk-in. Reddit

💧 Visitor Center Perks

Clean restrooms and park memorabilia available at the visitor center. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🛶 River Ready

Pack your kayak, canoe, or tube! The New River is perfect for a day on the water. Reddit

🥾 Trail Exploration

The perimeter trail offers varied elevation and lovely river views. Reddit

🏕️ Campsite Comfort

Campsites are clean, but some require a short walk-in. Reddit

💧 Visitor Center Perks

Clean restrooms and park memorabilia available at the visitor center. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(951 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise New River State Park for its serene natural beauty and excellent river access for water activities. The well-maintained campsites and trails are also frequently highlighted as positives, contributing to a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor experience. Some campers note that certain tent sites require a short walk-in, which is a minor consideration for an otherwise highly recommended destination.

"The park is perfectly tucked away in a bend along the New River. The visitor center has a nice selection of park memorabilia for purchase and clean restrooms. The trails are easily navigable and the hike along the park's perimeter is about three miles. There's a nice variation of elevation, and the walk within sight of the river was beautiful. Well worth a trip for a little slice of secluded nature."

Charles Pinney

"Some of the cleanest camp bathrooms ive experienced. Crowded, but i think that just shows that its a popular spot. If youre coming to hike there aren't a bunch of trails or breath taking ciews. Probably better for kayaking/canoeing. Be aware that some of the tent campspots are walk-in, meaning youll have to tote some of your stuff down a gravel road rather than driving right up."

Megan Sips

"We love the river and have been playing on it for years now!! The state park offers numerous places to tent and RV camp as well as access for canoes, kayaks, tubing and just having some river fun!!!! You will love this beautiful spot. The river is wide and offers plenty of space for entering and exiting canoes and kayaks."

Emily Allen

What People Like

Beautiful river access
Clean campsites
Scenic hiking trails

What People Dislike

Some walk-in campsites

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

New River State Park is accessible by car. The park is located in a bend along the New River. Specific directions can be found on the park's official website or by using GPS navigation. TikTok

Public transportation options to New River State Park are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by personal vehicle or rental car for the most convenient access. Reddit

The park has well-maintained trails for hiking and roads for driving to various access points and campgrounds. Maps are available at the visitor center. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to New River State Park itself is typically free. However, fees may apply for camping, specific activities, or special events. It's always best to check the official park website for the most current information. Reddit

New River State Park is generally open year-round, but specific facilities like the visitor center may have seasonal hours. Always check the official park website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, advance booking for campsites at New River State Park is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. You can usually book through the park's reservation system or a third-party booking site. Reddit

Day use entry to New River State Park is generally free. Fees are typically associated with camping or specific amenities. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The perimeter trail is a popular choice, offering about three miles of varied elevation and scenic river views. Other trails provide access to old homestead ruins and different sections of the park. Reddit

The New River is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and fishing. The river is wide with plenty of space for launching and enjoying water activities. TikTokReddit

Yes, New River State Park offers numerous tent and RV campsites. Some tent sites are walk-in, requiring you to carry your gear a short distance. Reddit

Campgrounds feature clean bathrooms and well-kept grounds. Some sites offer direct river access for water activities. Reddit

Yes, the park offers a serene natural setting with opportunities for outdoor recreation like hiking and river activities, making it enjoyable for families. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

New River State Park does not typically have on-site restaurants. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and supplies for picnics or to cook at their campsites. Reddit

Dining options are available in nearby towns. It's advisable to research local restaurants in towns like Fayetteville or Oak Hill before your visit. TikTok

Absolutely! Picnic areas are available, and bringing your own food is a great way to enjoy the park's natural beauty. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The New River itself offers stunning scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The trails provide opportunities to capture the diverse landscape and old homestead ruins. TikTok

While not as famous as the New River Gorge Bridge (which is nearby but not within the state park itself), the expansive views of the New River and the surrounding natural beauty are highly photogenic. TikTok

Landscape photography, nature photography, and wildlife photography are excellent choices. The river provides dynamic water shots, and the trails offer opportunities for forest and ruin photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

New River State Park is a fantastic destination for families seeking outdoor fun. The wide, calm sections of the New River are perfect for introducing children to kayaking or canoeing, with plenty of space to paddle safely. The perimeter trail offers a manageable hike with interesting sights like old homestead ruins, keeping younger explorers engaged. TikTokReddit

Campsites are well-maintained and offer a peaceful environment for families to relax. While some sites are walk-in, the short distance is usually manageable for families with children. The overall serene atmosphere and natural beauty provide a wonderful opportunity for families to disconnect and enjoy quality time together in nature. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Water Enthusiasts

For fishing enthusiasts, the New River within the park offers a rewarding experience with its diverse fish population. The wide riverbanks and numerous access points make it easy to cast a line and enjoy a day of angling. Remember to check local regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses before your trip. Reddit

Beyond fishing, the park is a paradise for water sports lovers. The placid waters of the New River are ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and tubing. Whether you're looking for a leisurely float or a more active day on the water, the park provides ample opportunities to enjoy the river. The ease of access and the beauty of the surroundings make it a prime spot for anyone who loves spending time on the water. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the New River

The New River is the heart of New River State Park, offering a serene and accessible waterway for a variety of recreational activities. Its wide, placid nature makes it ideal for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and tubing, with numerous points along the river offering easy entry and exit. The gentle currents provide a relaxing experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the park. Many campers find their campsites are just steps away from the riverbank, enhancing the overall outdoor experience. TikTokReddit

Beyond just paddling, the river is also a popular spot for fishing. The diverse aquatic life in the New River can provide a rewarding experience for anglers. Remember to check local fishing regulations and obtain any necessary licenses before casting your line. The accessibility and beauty of the river are consistently highlighted by visitors as a primary reason for their enjoyment of the park. Reddit

Hiking Trails and Natural Beauty

New River State Park boasts well-maintained hiking trails that cater to various fitness levels. The perimeter trail is a standout, offering approximately three miles of diverse terrain with varying elevation changes. This trail provides breathtaking views of the New River and its surrounding landscape, making it a favorite for day hikers. Along the way, you might stumble upon remnants of old homestead ruins, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your trek. Reddit

The park's natural beauty extends beyond the riverbanks. The trails wind through lush forests, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. The combination of scenic vistas, varied terrain, and historical elements makes hiking in New River State Park a truly engaging experience. It's a perfect way to connect with nature and appreciate the secluded, peaceful atmosphere the park is known for. Reddit

Camping at New River State Park

For those looking to extend their stay, New River State Park offers a range of campsites that are consistently praised for their cleanliness and thoughtful design. Visitors can choose from spots suitable for tent camping and RV camping. A unique aspect of some tent campsites is their walk-in access, meaning campers will need to carry their gear a short distance from the parking area down gravel roads. This setup contributes to a more secluded and immersive camping experience. Reddit

The proximity of many campsites to the New River is a significant draw, allowing campers easy access for morning paddles or evening fishing. The park's commitment to maintaining clean facilities, including restrooms, enhances the overall comfort of the camping experience. Due to its popularity, booking campsites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure a spot in this sought-after natural retreat. Reddit

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