New River Gorge NR increases access

(WOAY) – Following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and local public health authorities, New River Gorge National River is increasing access and services. The National Park Service (NPS) is working servicewide with federal, state, and local public health authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.

Beginning August 8, New River Gorge National River will reopen access to:   

• Grandview Sandbar Campground
• Glade Creek Campground
• Stone Cliff Campground.

  In addition, the following spaces continue to be available:

• Backcountry camping
• Hiking trails
• River and river access points
• Vault toilets at heavy visitor use areas including trailheads, river access points, and group picnic shelters
• Group picnic shelters at Grandview

  With public health in mind, the following facilities remain closed:

• Visitor Centers
• Vault toilets at less popular trailheads, river access points, and group picnic shelters
• Group campsites
• Campgrounds: Army Camp, Brooklyn, Gauley Tailwaters, Meadowcreek, Thayer, and War Ridge

The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount. At New River Gorge National River, our operational approach continues to be centered on examining each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance, and will be regularly monitored. We continue to work closely with the NPS Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public areas and work spaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers.

A safe and enjoyable park experience begins at home. The NPS encourages visitors to plan their visit by checking the park’s website and social media for current conditions and travel tips. The CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We ask the public to be our partner in recreating responsibly, by following CDC and state and local guidance, social distancing, and wearing a face covering when social distance cannot be maintained.  

Details and updates on park operations will continue to be posted on our website nps.gov/neri and social media channels. Updates about NPS operations will be posted on www.nps.gov/coronavirus.