Things To Do Near Gauley River National Recreation Area
From hiking to sightseeing to whitewater rafting, you will never get bored at the Gauley River National Recreation area. Visiting this area by RV is a great way to explore everything the area has to offer while bringing the comforts of home with you. When you are ready to explore the surrounding areas and visit local shops, restaurants, and museums, simply load up your RV and head to your next destination.
Hiking Trails
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Hawks Nest Rail Trail
The Hawks Nest Rail Trailis a 3.6-mile in-and-out hiking trail at Hawks Nest State Park. This gravel-lined trail once served as a railway for coal cars coming from the local mine. Today, visitors can see the remains of an old coal mine and picturesque waterfalls as they hike along the trail.
Location
49 Hawks Nest Park Rd, Ansted, WV 25812
Length
3.6 Miles
Intensity
Easy
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Narrow Gauge Trail
The Narrow Gauge Trail is an in-and-out trail at Babcock State Park. The trail follows the path of the Manns Creek Railway. Although the railroad closed in 1956, visitors can still see remnants of the railway along the trail.
Location
486 Babcock Rd. Clifftop, West Virginia
Length
5 Miles
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
The Carnifex Ferry Battlefield is located at the top of the Gauley River Canyon near Summersville, WV. Part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, the battlefield marks the site of an important Civil War battle. In September of 1861, Union forces led by Brigadier General William Rosecrans forced the Confederate forces to retreat to the southern side of the Gauley River. The Battle of Carnifex Ferry was considered a major Union victory. It marked the beginning of the Confederate withdrawal from western Virginia and cleared the path for West Virginia's bid for statehood.
Location: 1194 Carnifex Ferry Crossing, Summersville, WV 26651
Location
1194 Carnifex Ferry Crossing, Summersville, WV 26651
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Summersville Lake
Built by the Army Corps of Engineers between 1960 and 1966, Summersville Lake was formed by building a dam on the Gauley River to control flooding in the area. The largest lake in West Virginia, Summersville Lake encompasses over 2,700 acres of water with over 60 miles of shoreline. The lake offers fishing, boating, and swimming. If you're feeling adventurous, there are even opportunities to test your rock-climbing skills.
Location
2981 Summersville Lake Road, Summersville, WV 26651
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Babcock State Park
Built on the site of two 1930s era Civilian Conservation Corps camps, Babcock State Park covers 4,127 acres. The park offers more than 20 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy loops to more challenging treks through the park. Babcock State Park is perhaps best known for the fully functioning Glade Creek Grist Mill. The Mill is an exact replica of the original Cooper's Mill that once stood on park grounds. If you're lucky enough to visit on a grinding day, you might even be able to take home some freshly ground cornmeal.
Location
486 Babcock Road, Clifftop, WV 25831
Museums
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African American Heritage Family Tree Museum
Founded in 1991, The African American Heritage Family Tree Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of African Americans in West Virginia.
Location
HC 67 Box 58A, Ansted, WV 25812
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Contentment Museum
Built around 1830, the Contentment Museum is also known as the Colonel George Imboden House. The home was named after the former Confederate colonel who purchased it in 1872. Colonel Imboden was also the first mayor of Ansted. While you're there, don't forget to stop and check out the Pioneer Museum and one-room schoolhouse located on the grounds.
Location
19295 Midland Trail, Ansted, WV 25812
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North House Museum
The North House was built in 1820 as a home for John and Charlotte North. Today the home serves as a museum exploring the history and lives of the people who lived in the Greenbrier Valley. Guests can take a guided tour. Exhibits feature Civil War artifacts, an antique covered wagon, and items from the home's original inhabitants.
Location
814 Washington St, Lewisburg, WV 24901
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Maloney's Pub and Grill
A family-friendly spot, Maloney's Pub and Grill serves traditional pub fare. Catch the big game on one of the 14 HD televisions, or enjoy some live music with your dinner out on the patio.
Location
605 Church St, Summersville, WV 26651
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Kirkwood Winery & Isaiah Morgan Distillery
The Country Store at Kirkwood Winery doesn't just offer a wide selection of fine wines. Visitors will also find a wide selection of handcrafted jams, jellies, baskets, and other country decor products. While you're there, make sure to taste test the only bourbon made and produced in West Virginia.
Location
45 Winery Lane, Summersville, WV 26651
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Shoney’s
If you're looking for American-style comfort food in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere, Shoney's is the place to go. They offer a wide variety of foods on their menu as well as a full buffet. There's sure to be something to tempt everyone.
Location
901 N Industrial Dr, Summersville, WV 26651