Gauley River National Recreation Area
The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features.
Photo: NPS Photo / NPS
About Gauley River National Recreation Area
The 25 miles of free-flowing Gauley River and the six miles of the Meadow River pass through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The Gauley River contains several class V+ rapids, making it one of the most adventurous white water boating rivers in the east.
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WVdrive time
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PAdrive time
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Driving times from Gauley River National Recreation Area, one way, via road — a realistic day is 8–10 hours behind the wheel.
Hours
Gauley River National Recreation Area
- Mon
- All Day
- Tue
- All Day
- Wed
- All Day
- Thu
- All Day
- Fri
- All Day
- Sat
- All Day
- Sun
- All Day
Activities
Getting there
Weather in the Appalachian Mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly. Always be prepared for the possibility of sudden storms. Weather in the mountains is often cooler and wetter than the surrounding area. On average, the warmest month is July. The maximum average precipitation also occurs in July.
Frequently asked questions
- What is there to do at Gauley River National Recreation Area?
- Popular activities include Boating, Camping, Car or Front Country Camping, Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Junior Ranger Program.
- Which national parks are within a day's drive of Gauley River National Recreation Area?
- Within about a day's drive you can reach New River Gorge National Park & Preserve (2 h), Bluestone National Scenic River (2 h 5 min), Friendship Hill National Historic Site (3 h 8 min), Fort Necessity National Battlefield (3 h 25 min), Booker T Washington National Monument (3 h 42 min), Hopewell Culture National Historical Park (4 h 1 min).