Seven camping areas are located within the park. Stone Cliff Beach near Thurmond has one vehicle and six walk-in sites, with several more at the Thayer campground a few miles away. Three more camps are situated near the town of Prince: Army Camp and Glade Creek both feature 11 drive-in RV and tent sites, while Grandview Sandbar has 18. The camping area at War Ridge/Backus Mountain east of Danese sports eight sites, and Brooklyn near Fayetteville has five shaded ones close to the Cunard River Access. In addition, Gauley Tailwaters boasts 18 drive-in sites just outside the park at the Gauley River National Recreation Area.
All campsites are primitive, with no drinking water, electrical hookups or modern amenities of any sort. Campers are encouraged to bring their own bottled water and battery-powered items like flashlights and radios. Limited bathroom facilities can be found throughout the park. Reservations are not accepted and no camping fees are charged; however, all campers are required to register with a park ranger at their first opportunity. Rangers can answer questions, give directions and assist with emergencies. The Burnwood and Grandview Ranger Stations are convenient to all the campgrounds. The park also has four visitor centers with maps, books, interpretive displays and other information.
Campers have an array of activities at their disposal. Over 100 miles of hiking trails snake through lush, placid greenery, with individual trail lengths ranging from one-quarter mile up to 7 miles. A half dozen of these trails also permit mountain biking. Over 1,400 established rock climbs are spread across miles of sandstone cliffs that range in height from 30 to 120 feet. Whitewater rafters of all skill levels can enjoy 53 miles of meandering river, with Class V rapids in the Lower Gorge for experts. Fishermen can trawl for walleye, crappie, bluegill and carp, while hunters pursue deer, grouse and wild turkey. Even golfers can hit the links at the 18-hole Bridge Haven course in nearby Fayetteville.
Camping is only permitted in designated sites with a maximum of eight people and not more than two vehicles per site. The same campers may not occupy a site for more than 14 days during any 28-day period. Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., and prohibited behavior like public intoxication, littering and disorderly conduct are strictly enforced around the clock. Pets are permitted, but must be kept on a leash at all times. Campers may also build fires, but only in designated fire rings using dead wood found on the ground. Additionally, rangers ask that campers relieve themselves in park toilet facilities rather than in the woods.
