Looking for an unforgettable getaway that doesn’t break the bank? Look no further than Fayetteville, West Virginia, and the New River Gorge National Park—a dream destination for outdoor lovers, families, and adventurers of all kinds. Whether you’re hiking epic trails, chasing waterfalls, or exploring charming downtown streets, this area is packed with free and affordable experiences that deliver big on scenery and small on spending.
Free National Park Entry
One of the best things about the New River Gorge National Park is that it’s completely free to enter—no passes, no entry fees. Start your journey at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, where you’ll get stunning views of the New River Gorge Bridge and learn about the area’s natural and cultural history. Then, wind your way down Fayette Station Road, a scenic drive that puts you face-to-face with the bridge towering above and the river roaring below.
The National Park covers multiple counties, venture south through the park to explore Thurmond, Grandview, and Sandstone Falls. Grandview offers scenic overlooks, Standstone falls offers a boardwalk along the falls and you can explore an old coal town of Thurmond. All free!
More Budget Friendly Adventures
- Hike or bike the Arrowhead Trails at Arrowhead Bike Farm (don’t forget to say hi to the goats!)
- Splash, skate, and play at the Fayetteville Town Park with its free splash pad, pump track, skatepark, and playground.
- Chase waterfalls on the Hawks Nest Rail Trail, where Mill Creek Falls offers a photogenic reward after a peaceful stroll and its part of the WV Waterfall Trail.
- Explore nearby state parks like Babcock, Hawks Nest, Bluestone, and Pipestem—all free to enter with miles of trails, epic views, and iconic spots like the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock. Check out the WV swings for a photo at each of our neighboring state parks. Boley Lake at Babcock offers affordable paddle boat and canoe rentals from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
- Swim over at Summersville Lake, the lake is about a 30 minute drive from Fayetteville. It is $5 for a car load of people to park at Battle Run beach for the day. You can also head down to the New River and put your feet in the water. Many sections of the New River closest to Fayetteville have strong currents. Here is more info on where to swim in the area.
Downtown Fun That’s Free
- Take a self-guided walking tour through Fayetteville’s historic downtown—filled with rich history and unique shops and delicious local eateries. Stop by the visitor center to snag a pocket guide and complete the Fayetteville Scavenger hunt with a photo-op checklist through town.
- Hunt for sock monkeys at Water Stone Outdoors in their whimsical in-store scavenger hunt
- Catch local art and culture at the Love Hope Center for the Arts, offering rotating exhibits and community events
- Check the Visit Fayetteville event calendar for live music, street festivals, farmers markets, and more free happenings around town
Hiking
- Long Point Trail – Easy-moderate hike to one of the best views of the bridge
- Burnwood Trail – A quieter old growth forest hike close to the Canyon Rim Visitor Center
- Grandview’s Turkey Spur Trail – Boardwalk in the sky with sweeping gorge views
- Tunnel Trail at Grandview – Rock faces and forest trails the whole family can enjoy
- Hawks Nest Rail Trail– Explore the waterfalls along Mill Creek.
Scenic Drives
- Fayette Station Road – Winding riverside drive under the Gorge Bridge (don’t miss the audio tour!)
- New River Gorge Scenic Drive – Cover three counties with stops at Thurmond, Grandview, Sandstone Falls, and more
- African American Heritage Auto Tour – Learn about the region’s Black history with this self-guided route through significant cultural sites
Bargain Bites
Fayetteville’s food scene is delicious, and we have a few budget-friendly bites you shouldn’t miss.
Swiftwater General Store is known for their famous WV dogs and budget friendly menu.
Cathedral Cafe is a Fayetteville staple with delicious food and an affordable menu.
Wood Iron Eatery is known for their famous Handheld and you can score one for $8 bucks.
Bonus tip: Pack a picnic! Grab snacks or sandwiches from local spots and enjoy a meal with a view at the National Park. Canyon Rim visitor center has picnic tables above the bridge overlook. Many of our vacation rentals have kitchens so you can save by preparing some meals in house.
Where to Stay on a Budget
Fayetteville offers affordable lodging options for every type of traveler, rates can change so check partner sites directly for up-to-date information.
- Quality Inn New River Gorge – Centrally located with breakfast included and an onsite pool the Quality Inn is known for its convenient location, friendly staff and affordability.
- Rifrafters & Bear Mountain Campgrounds – Tent camping or cozy rustic cabins close to town with affordable rates.
- The Outpost New River Gorge – Unique stays including vintage campers, cabins, and tent platforms
- Smith House – Rent a single room in a shared historic home just a short walk from downtown
- Vacation Rentals – Look for budget-friendly entire homes or private rooms through Airbnb or VRBO
- Welcome Home Cottage – A charming, remodeled 1930s home walkable to Fayetteville’s shops and restaurants
Budget-Friendly, Adventure-Filled
With its free national park access, affordable eats, lodging, and endless outdoor fun, Fayetteville is the perfect spot for a wallet-friendly escape. Whether you’re solo adventuring, road tripping with friends, or bringing the whole family, you’ll find that you don’t need to spend big to make big memories here in the heart of the New River Gorge.