New River State Park

About

New River State Park protects a scenic corridor along the South Fork of the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, flowing through the Blue Ridge Mountains of northwestern North Carolina. The park spans over 2,200 acres across four access points in Ashe and Alleghany counties, approximately 35 miles northeast of Boone. The campground system offers 67 campsites catering to various camping styles. The U.S. 221 Access serves as the main hub with a visitor center and provides drive-to RV camping with full hookups including 50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections. Walk-in tent camping and paddle-in primitive camping are available at multiple locations including the Riverbend and Peaks backcountry areas, accessible only by canoe or kayak along the river corridor. Facilities include modern bath houses with hot showers and flush toilets, drinking water, a dump station, and ranger station. Each campsite features a fire ring and picnic table. The park offers excellent canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking opportunities, though some trails remain closed for repair following Hurricane Helene damage. The visitor center operates Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Directions

From Boone, take US-221 North approximately 35 miles. The U.S. 221 Access and Visitor Center is located at 358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs, NC 28644. The Wagoner Access is at 1477 Wagoner Access Road, Jefferson, NC 28640.