Gauley River National Recreation Area

Gauley River is a popular whitewater river in the fall
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.
Map showing location of park.
Volunteer receiving an award from the Park Superintendent
New River Gorge NPP VIP Jacki Wright wins regionwide award
Volunteer Jacki Wright was recently awarded the Volunteer of the Year Award for 2023
historic photo of coal miners on a mine car outside mine entrance
NRGNPP Announces 2024 Hidden History Happenings
Programs celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage
River cutting through a deep, forested gorge
Tourism at the three national parks in southern West Virginia contributed 96.5 million to local economy
Report shows visitor spending supports 1,268 jobs in nearby communities
a group of kids pose in front of screen with wildflower
Youth Arts in the Parks 2024 Appalachian Spring Wildflower Art Exhibit Opens at Tamarack and Online
You can now view the winning artwork for the Youth Arts in the Parks 2024 Appalachian Spring Wildflower Art Contest online and at Tamarack Marketplace.
Rafters enjoying the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Rafting on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Trying to stay in the raft on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Rafting on Gauley River before Sweets Falls fapid
Photo by NPS Photo
Watching the boats come by on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Kayakers coming through Pillow Rock rapid on Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Tapping the rock at Pillow Rock rapid on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
Guiding through a rapid on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo
One of the many rapids on the Gauley River
Photo by NPS Photo