Friends of the New River Gorge
Protecting the Rivers and Lands of the New River Gorge Region: We support the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Gauley River National Recreation Area, and Bluestone National Scenic River through conservation, education, and community action.
About Friends of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
We are a volunteer-led organization supported by dedicated members and community volunteers who share a passion for protecting and enhancing our parks and rivers.
Protecting the Places You Love
The New River Gorge region is home to some of the most breathtaking and meaningful public lands in the country from the iconic cliffs of the New River Gorge to the wild waters of the Gauley River and the quiet beauty of the Bluestone.
Friends of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve helps care for these places by supporting projects, programs, and partnerships that keep them accessible, protected, and thriving.
Whether you’re exploring the trails, rafting the rivers, or simply enjoying the view, you’re part of what makes these places special and you can help ensure they’re here for generations to come.
Support What Matters Most
Your support helps protect and enhance the New River Gorge, Gauley River, and Bluestone River ensuring these special places remain accessible, healthy, and inspiring for generations to come.
Shop
Show your love of New River Gorge with our merch
Events
Join us on Facebook to join upcoming river cleanups or hang out with us at local events
Membership
Become an official Friend of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
Donate
Find out more about our upcoming projects and support your favorite by donating
Projects That Protect and Enhance Our Parks
Our work goes beyond preservation we actively invest in projects that make our parks more accessible, enjoyable, and sustainable for everyone. From enhancing river access to supporting trails and educational experiences, each initiative is designed to improve how visitors connect with these natural spaces while protecting them for future generations. Explore our projects to see how these efforts come to life.
River Put In Blowers
Working in conjunction with the National Park Service, the Friends have installed and maintain hardened blowers at Summersville Dam on the Gauley River and Cunard on the New River for private users to inflate their craft. We are responsible for maintenance of these popular units. Contribute here to keep them blowing!
Bike Maintenance Station
We plan to install a bike maintenance station at the Arrowhead trailhead. This station will include a stand, pump, and basic tools for mountain bike enthusiasts to service their bikes. But we still need funding to make this happen! Contribute here to keep this project moving!
Where Needed Most
By giving to Friends of New River Gorge your tax deductible donation could provide citizen science experiences for local students, repair high-traffic trails, preserve history, and improve visitor experiences. Every bit helps – your park needs all the friends it can get.
Partners
Thank you to our local business donors for their support of Friends of New River Gorge!
Be sure to check out the member discounts at these amazing places:
What’s Happening in the Parks
Stay up to date on the latest projects, upcoming events, and ways to get involved in supporting the New River Gorge, Gauley River, and Bluestone River areas.
What It's Like to Be a Volunteer Coordinator at a National Park
Take a look at how Jim Walker organizes trail days, coordinates with park staff, and supports a growing network of volunteers in our three park sites.
How Community Programs Connect People to Public Lands in West Virginia
Explore how our partnership projects are creating new opportunities for education, engagement, and conservation throughout southern West Virginia.
Top Volunteer Projects at New River Gorge and Nearby Parks This Season
From clearing overgrown paths to installing new signage, check out what our incredible volunteers have accomplished this season.