West Virginia / Nicholas County / Gauley River National Recreation Area

Gauley Tailwaters

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground typically closes for approximately three weeks in early September during peak Gauley whitewater season to provide additional parking and river access. Limited to 14 consecutive nights per 28-day period.

About

Gauley Tailwaters campground sits in a flat, easily accessible area just below Summersville Dam in the Gauley River National Recreation Area. The National Park Service operates this primitive facility with 18 drive-in campsites arranged close together, each accommodating up to two camping units and eight people per site. The campground serves as a convenient base for river access and whitewater enthusiasts, particularly during the Gauley season. Amenities are basic: vault toilets are available year-round, trash collection is provided, and each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Campers must bring their own water as none is available on-site. The campground can accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet in length but offers no hookups. Cell phone reception is available in the area. The camping area is accessible with a ramp at the restroom facility, though parking areas have loose gravel and tent sites are on grass. Campers should be prepared for unpredictable Appalachian mountain weather that can change quickly and is often cooler and wetter than surrounding areas. The campground operates on a 14-day limit within any 28-day period. Two vehicles are permitted per site, and quiet hours run from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Pets must be leashed, and only dead and downed wood may be used for fires. Access is straightforward: from Route 19 at Mt. Nebo, take Route 129 west across the dam, then turn left at the river access sign and bear right through the parking lot to reach the campsites.

Directions

From Route 19 at Mt. Nebo, take Route 129 west across Summersville Dam, then turn left at the river access sign. Bear right through the parking lot to reach the campsites.

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