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.
a row of tents and several RVs in a crowded campground
NPS Invites public to comment on proposal for Tailwaters Campground at Gauley River NRA.
The NPS is seeking comments for proposed rehabilitation of Gauley Tailwaters Campground.
painting of large yellow wildflowers
2025 Youth Arts in the Parks Contest Now Open
Fish Out of Water, a painting of Yellow Trout Lily © Elijah Bennett, 7th grade, Home School, Fayette County. 2024 Appalachian Spring Wildflower Art Contest – Best in Show.
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