New River Campground Inc.

For those of us who cherish the outdoor experiences in West Virginia, finding a reliable and enjoyable campground near our iconic rivers and mountains is key to a successful getaway. New River Campground Inc. in Gauley Bridge has historically been a notable option for campers looking to explore the New River Gorge area. Situated along the Midland Trail, it's a spot that many locals might consider for a quick escape into the "Wild and Wonderful."

However, recent insights from fellow West Virginia campers suggest that the experience at New River Campground Inc. may have seen some significant changes, particularly since 2020. What was once a beloved spot for many has faced challenges that impact its services and overall appeal. As content writers specializing in local business descriptions, our aim is to provide a factual and informative overview, based on available public data, to help our community make informed decisions about their camping plans.

This article will delve into the current status of New River Campground Inc., its location, and the services that are reportedly available. We'll also highlight key features, address common concerns raised by recent visitors, and provide essential contact information. Our goal is to offer a transparent look at what prospective campers, especially those of us from West Virginia, can expect when considering this campground for their next outdoor adventure.

New River Campground Inc. is located at 11218 Midland Trail, Gauley Bridge, WV 25085, USA. This address places it strategically along the historic Midland Trail (US Route 60), a significant thoroughfare that winds through much of West Virginia’s scenic beauty. Gauley Bridge itself is a well-known gateway to the majestic New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, as well as the confluence of the New and Gauley Rivers, forming the Kanawha River.

For West Virginia residents, the campground's location offers relatively straightforward accessibility. The Midland Trail provides a direct route for those traveling from areas like Charleston or Fayetteville. Its proximity to the New River Gorge means that campers are within easy reach of world-class whitewater rafting, extensive hiking and biking trails, and stunning scenic overlooks that define this iconic region of our state. The ability to pull off a major route directly into a campground can be convenient for travelers.

However, it's important for local campers to be aware of the immediate surroundings. Reviewers have noted significant train noise, suggesting that the campground is quite close to active rail lines. Additionally, the mention of "semi trucks coming over the mountain in the morning" indicates proximity to a well-trafficked road, which could impact the perceived tranquility of the site. While the location provides excellent access to natural attractions, these external noises are an important consideration for those seeking a quiet retreat.

Based on recent customer reviews, the services offered at New River Campground Inc. appear to have undergone changes, with some amenities that were previously available no longer being universally accessible. It's crucial for prospective campers to verify the current status of all services directly with the campground before visiting.

• Camping Spots: The campground reportedly offers spots for both RVs (including travel trailers) and primitive tent camping. However, the availability of these spots and the specific amenities tied to them (like hookups for RVs) seem to be subject to change or specific conditions.
• Restrooms/Bathrooms: A significant point of contention raised by recent visitors is the limited availability of restrooms. Previously, restrooms were "available to everyone," but "now they do not have restrooms available to everyone." This suggests that only certain types of campers (e.g., those with fully functional, self-contained restrooms in their RVs) may be permitted or are expected to be self-sufficient. This is a critical factor for tent campers or those with travel trailers relying on campground facilities.
• Water: While not explicitly detailed, the lack of general restroom access might imply limitations on public water spigots or access points. Campers should be prepared to bring their own potable water supplies.
• Security: There are no explicit services mentioned regarding on-site security, and one review notes a concern about theft ("Someone stole my 100 foot extension cord"). This suggests campers should exercise caution and secure their belongings.

Given the feedback, it appears New River Campground Inc. operates with a more basic amenity set, particularly post-Covid. Campers should anticipate a self-sufficient experience and confirm any specific needs (like restroom access or hookups) directly when inquiring or attempting to make reservations.

Based on customer experiences, here are some points that highlight the current situation at New River Campground Inc.:

• Proximity to New River Gorge: The campground's location near the New River Gorge is a natural advantage, offering access to its renowned outdoor activities like whitewater rafting (on both the New and Gauley Rivers), hiking, and scenic drives.
• Convenient Main Road Access: Being directly on the Midland Trail (US Route 60) makes it easy to find and access for travelers.
• Primitive & RV Spots: It theoretically offers options for both tent and RV campers, catering to different styles of camping, although access to amenities may vary by vehicle type.
• Historical Appeal: For those who previously enjoyed the campground, it holds a sentimental value as a "favorite campground."
• Potential for Cost-Effectiveness (Variable): One reviewer noted a low price of "$20 a night" for a primitive spot, which, if consistently available, could be a very affordable option. However, this is countered by inconsistent pricing experiences.

It is important to acknowledge significant challenges or "highlights" of a less positive nature reported by recent visitors:

• Inconsistent Restroom Access: The major drawback cited is the lack of public restroom availability since Covid, which significantly impacts campers without self-contained facilities.
• Inconsistent Pricing & Communication: Reviewers report varying prices depending on who is spoken to, and difficulty reaching the campground by phone. The claim that "the owner said he charges what ever he wants and it’s always different" points to a lack of transparent and consistent pricing.
• Noise Levels: "Horrendous" train noise and semi-truck noise are significant detractions for those seeking a peaceful camping experience.
• Security Concerns: The report of stolen property and "Rats at the entrance" raises concerns about safety and maintenance at the campground.

Based on the provided reviews, there is no information available regarding promotions or special offers at New River Campground Inc. In fact, the reviews highlight a concerning lack of consistent pricing:

• Variable Pricing: One reviewer explicitly states, "They have different prices depending on who you talk to," and "the owner said he charges what ever he wants and it’s always different." This suggests there are no set or advertised rates, let alone promotions.

Prospective campers, particularly West Virginia locals, should be prepared for potential price discrepancies and should attempt to confirm the rate for their specific site type and duration of stay directly, understanding that this information might be subject to change upon arrival. It is advisable to get any pricing confirmed in writing if possible, though this may be challenging given the reported communication issues.

To attempt to inquire about current conditions, pricing, or availability at New River Campground Inc., here is the provided contact information:

• Address: 11218 Midland Trail, Gauley Bridge, WV 25085, USA
• Phone: (304) 590-5389
• Mobile Phone: +1 304-590-5389

It is important to note that recent customer reviews indicate significant difficulty in reaching the campground by phone, with one reviewer stating, "They never answer the phone." Given these reports, prospective visitors should be prepared for potential challenges in getting through or receiving consistent information. Persistence or a direct visit might be necessary for those determined to stay at this location, though a visit is not recommended without prior confirmation.

For West Virginians, considering New River Campground Inc. means weighing its undeniable geographical advantage against significant reported drawbacks. On the positive side, its location along the Midland Trail in Gauley Bridge offers incredibly convenient access to the heart of the New River Gorge region. For those of us who love whitewater rafting, hiking the trails of our newest national park, or simply appreciating the scenic beauty of the New and Gauley Rivers, being so close to these attractions is a definite draw. Historically, it might have been a "favorite campground" for many, holding a nostalgic appeal for long-time local campers.

However, recent feedback from fellow West Virginia campers paints a challenging picture that locals should be fully aware of. The reported lack of universal restroom access since 2020 is a critical issue for many, particularly tent campers or those with travel trailers that rely on campground facilities. This policy, described as "unfair," could significantly limit who can comfortably stay here. Furthermore, the concerns about inconsistent pricing, difficulty reaching staff by phone, and reports of "horrendous" train and truck noise, coupled with security issues like theft and rats at the entrance, suggest a decline in the overall camping experience. While the potential for a very low nightly rate ($20) might seem appealing, the uncertainty surrounding it and the other issues noted could lead to a disappointing stay.

In summary, while New River Campground Inc.'s location is ideal for accessing some of West Virginia's premier outdoor destinations, recent public reviews indicate that it may no longer offer the consistent quality or amenities that many West Virginia locals expect or deserve. For those seeking a reliable, comfortable, and predictable camping experience, it would be wise to consider alternative options in the New River Gorge area or to thoroughly verify current conditions and policies directly with the campground, acknowledging the reported communication difficulties.