Details
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 26, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
The National Park Service offers primitive camping at Gauley Tailwaters, located just below Summersville Dam. From Route 19 at Mt. Nebo, take Route 129 west across the dam, then turn left at the river access sign. Bear right through the parking lot to the campsites. There are 18 drive-in sites for tents and RVs. Camp only at designated sites. RV, camper, or car camping in non-designated sites, walk-in sites, or any parking area is strictly prohibited.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Gauley Tailwaters is a primitive campground and has no drinking water or hookups, and limited restroom facilities. All sites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis and reservations are not accepted. There are no fees for camping and the campground is open year round. Stays are limited to 14 days in the same area. Developed campgrounds are available at state parks and private campgrounds throughout the surrounding area.
Weather
Weather in the Appalachian Mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly. Always be prepared for the possibility of sudden storms. Weather in the mountains is often cooler and wetter than the surrounding area. On average, the warmest month is July. The maximum average precipitation also occurs in July.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Cell Phone Reception
Directions
The National Park Service offers primitive camping at Gauley Tailwaters, located just below Summersville Dam. From Route 19 at Mt. Nebo, take Route 129 west across the dam, then turn left at the river access sign. Bear right through the parking lot to the campsites. There are 18 drive-in sites for tents and RVs.
Rates & Fees
Gauley Tailwaters Campground
The National Park Service offers primitive camping at Gauley Tailwaters, located just below Summersville Dam. From Route 19 at Mt. Nebo, take Route 129 west across the dam, then turn left at the river access sign. Bear right through the parking lot to the campsites. There are 18 drive-in sites for tents and RVs.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
Open fires are allowed where campfire receptacles are provided and must be contained in these designated containers. Campfires are prohibited within 100 feet of any river access area, developed trail head area, top edge or bottom of any cliff, park structure or historic ruin. Use only dead and down wood. Be sure your fire is out and cold before leaving. Do not burn tires or drive nails into trees. The use of chain saws is prohibited.Regulations Overview
Regulations Camping is permitted on a first-come, first-served basis as follows: Two vehicles permitted per site. Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Two camping units (tent or RV) with a maximum of 8 people per site. Camp only in designated campsites. Limit of 14 days within a 28-day period within any park campground or camping area. Public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and possession of alcohol by minors is prohibited. Possession and use of firearms is prohibited in the camping area. Pets must be kept on a leash. You are in a national park area, help protect it: littering is prohibited. Use existing fire rings. Burn only dead wood found on the ground. Do not drive nails into trees, or hang lanterns against trees. Please use the provided toilet facilities. Broken glass is a hazard to all -- use plastic and aluminum containers when possible. Respect other river users.Accessibility
Wheelchair Access
The Gauley Tailwaters campground is a flat campground that is easily accessible. The parking area has some loose gravel. The tent sites are on grass. There is a ramp in front of the restroom for wheelchair accessibility. There are no hook-ups or running water. There is a pit-toilet restroom.
Cell Phone Information
Cell phone coverage can be spotty.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
The campsites at Gauley Tailwaters campground are close together. The campground can only accommodate small (less than 25 feet in length) RVs and trailers. There are no hook-ups or running water. There is a pit-toilet restroom.
RV Maximum Length
25
Additional Information
Camping is allowed throughout the park on federally-owned lands unless otherwise posted. The National Park Service does not own most of the land within the boundaries of the Gauley River National Recreation Area. Be aware of private property and respect the rights of land owners. Unless developed sites are offered, camp sites must be at least 100 feet away from any river access area, developed trail head area, top edge or bottom of any cliff, park structure or historic ruin. The maximum stay is 14 days at the same camping area. There is no camping fee.
Trailer Maximum Length
25
ADA Information
The Gauley Tailwaters campground is a flat campground that is easily accessible. The parking area has some loose gravel. The tent sites are on grass. There is a ramp in front of the restroom for accessibility. There are no hook-ups or running water. There is a pit-toilet restroom.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Classifications
Designated Primitive Campsites
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