Spectators watch as rafters navigate through rapids on the Gauley River / NPS

The National Park Service (NPS) invites the public to share their thoughts on plans to upgrade and expand the Gauley Tailwaters Campground at Gauley River National Recreation Area in Nicholas County, West Virginia.

Nestled at the headwaters of the legendary Gauley River, known for its world-class whitewater, the Gauley Tailwaters Campground has been a staple since the park's founding in 1988. However, this rustic site is overdue for improvements to ensure it remains accessible, functional, and enjoyable for years to come.

The campground serves as a hub during the annual Gauley River rafting season, which draws adventure seekers from around the globe for thrilling Class V and VI rapids. While originally designed to accommodate 16 sites (or about 64 campers), the area regularly hosts 100 to 200 visitors on peak days.

The Proposed Changes

To address current challenges, the NPS has developed two preliminary plans to rehabilitate and expand the campground. Highlights of the proposed upgrades include:

• Relocated Campsites: Moving all 16 existing campsites to a more spacious, forested area for improved experiences.
• Updated Site Layout: Creating 11 RV sites and 5 walk-in tent sites, all designed to meet federal accessibility standards (ABAAS).
• Modern Amenities: Adding essentials like picnic tables, durable tent pads, fire rings, lantern poles, and markers at each site.
• Group Camping Area: Developing a new group campsite south of the tent area.
• Day-Use Parking: Replacing the original campsites with a larger parking area for day visitors.
• Improved Restrooms: Replacing the outdated wooden vault toilets with fully accessible facilities.
• New Trails: Adding about 2 miles of trails to enhance the campground’s appeal and improve emergency access to the river.
• Informational Kiosks: Installing kiosks at trailheads and within the day-use and camping areas.
• Upgraded Access Roads: Building a gravel road with a one-way loop for RVs and extending access to tent and group camping areas.

How to Get Involved

The proposal will be open for public review from December 3, 2024, to January 3, 2025, on the NPS planning website: https://parkplanning.nps.gov/GauleyTailwatersCG.

When reviewing the project, consider responding to the guiding questions on the site to help shape the next steps. All feedback will be analyzed in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

Your input is critical to shaping the future of this beloved camping and recreation spot.