Fayetteville, WV, nestled in the heart of the New River Gorge, is a haven for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking thrilling rapids, serene lakes, or family-friendly activities, Fayetteville has something for everyone. Here are some of the top water activities to enjoy in Fayetteville and the New River Gorge.
Water safety is paramount when enjoying the various activities offered by the New River. The national park emphasizes that everyone should wear a personal flotation device (PFD or life jacket) at all times while on the water. Most drownings in the New River occur with people who didn’t plan on being in the water, underscoring the unpredictability of water conditions and the importance of being prepared.
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Experience the beauty of our area with a guided stand-up paddle board trip with Mountain Surf Paddle Sports. Their 2–4-hour tours allow you to explore hidden waterfalls accessible only by water. The Kanawha Falls trip is a must-do, where you can discover secret waterfalls hidden behind those visible from the road. They also offer tours of Summersville Lake and the New River, where you can enjoy the sights of the New River Gorge Bridge. For a unique experience, try their sunset or moonlight tours. Paddle board rentals are available from Mountain Surf Paddle Sports, ACE Adventure Gear Shop in Fayetteville, Lake Side Outfitters, and Summersville Lake and Marina.
Whitewater Rafting
Fayetteville is renowned for its world-class whitewater rafting, thanks to its proximity to both the New River and Gauley River. Rafting the national park’s rivers offers unparalleled views and thrilling experiences.
New River
- Upper New River: Perfect for families and those seeking a mellower ride, the Upper New River offers class I-III rapids. Suitable for ages 6 and up, it provides a calmer float with a touch of excitement.
- Lower New River: The most popular section, the Lower New River, features incredible views of the gorge and rapids ranging from class I to IV. Suitable for ages 12 and up, it’s a favorite for adventure seekers.
Gauley River
- Upper Gauley: Known worldwide for its intense rapids, the Upper Gauley is fed by the Summersville Dam and boasts five class V rapids. Experience is recommended, and it’s suitable for ages 15 and up.
- Lower Gauley: Tamer than the Upper Gauley, the Lower Gauley offers scenic backcountry views and is one of the most remote sections. Suitable for ages 12 and up.
New River Dries
- This unique section of the river, downstream from the New River Gorge Bridge and Hawks Nest Lake, can be rafted on select days when water is released from the dam.
Water levels can vary on both rivers, influencing your trip. Options range from 4-8 hours with overnight stays available. We recommend a full-day trip to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Whitewater Rafting Outfitters
For a soft scenic adventure, try the New River Jet Boat. Suitable for all ages, this scenic tour takes passengers from Hawks Nest Lake back up the New River, offering incredible views of the New River Gorge Bridge.
Open from late May to September, ACE’s waterpark features 5 acres of inflatable toys, including climbing mountains, spinning balls, obstacle courses, a zipline, and waterslides, along with a splash pad. It’s a perfect spot for family fun.
Tubing
While Fayetteville is known for whitewater and not the place to inner tube, you can enjoy calmer tubing experiences at the southern end of the park. New River Outfitters offers inner tube rentals for leisurely floats on the New River and Greenbrier River.
Kayaking/Canoeing/Paddle Boats
- Babcock State Park: Babcock State Park offers seasonal kayak, paddle boat, and canoe rentals at Boley Lake. It’s a small, serene lake ideal for exploring, especially when the rhododendrons are in bloom. This is one of the most affordable rental spots in the area.
- Summersville Lake: Rent kayaks from Lakeside Outfitters, Summersville Lake Marina, and Summersville Lake Retreat and Lighthouse to explore one of West Virginia’s most beautiful lakes. The flat water around the lake is perfect for a peaceful paddle.
Swimming Just a 20-minute drive north of Fayetteville off Route 19, Summersville Lake is a popular swimming spot. Battle Run beach is a favorite, as is the swimming hole along the Glade Creek trail, complete with a waterfall.
Fishing With its abundant waterways, Fayetteville offers numerous fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
Fishing Outfitters
Splash Pad
For younger visitors, the Fayetteville Charlie McCoy Town Park features a splash pad open seasonally from 10 am to 7 pm daily.
Fayetteville and the New River Gorge offer a myriad of water activities for adventure seekers, families, and everyone in between. Dive into the fun and discover the beauty of these waters for yourself!
Surrounding Lake Attractions
Stay a little longer and plan to spend time exploring around our region. Fayetteville makes a great home base while you venture a little further around the National Park and surrounding region. Venture to places like Bluestone Lake where you can rent kayaks, pontoons and canoe at the Blue Stone Lake Marina. Pipestem Resort is home to a lake that houses inflatables and offers stand up paddle board rentals and a splash pad. Lake Stephens is just outside of Beckly offering an aqua park with inflatables, splash pad, kayak and stand- up paddle board rentals. One of our favorite seasonal attractions is Plum Orchard Lake. (Caution: The road to Plum Orchard is narrow and rough and it is difficult to pass cars in spots.) Visitors will need to rent and transport kayaks/ paddle boards and make the trek to the lake. Enjoy when the lilies bloom on Plum Orchard Lake making it serene destination of flat-water exploration. Pontoon rentals are also available at Summersville Lake at the Summersville Lake Marina.
Sarges Dive Shop Summersville Lake
Sarges Dive shop offers dinner cruises on Summersville Lake along with snorkeling and swimming charters. They also offer SUP rentals, kayak rentals and scuba classes.
Pools
Canyon Falls Swimming Pool | Adventures on the Gorge
New River Park Pool (Beckley)
Wild Water Express (Hinton)
Nicholas County Memorial Park Pool
Lodging Partners with Pools