The best camping near Gauley River National Recreation Area

This national recreation area is an outdoor lover's dream vacation. There's 31 miles of river (25 from the Gauley and six from the Meadow), more than 100 rapids, and 11,000 acres of land. The wooded hills, green mountains, and deep woods are perfect for hiking and camping. Camp onsite if you so desire, or stay at Summersville Lake on the northeast side of the park.

When you're not lounging by the river, take a trip back to history at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield. The 156-acre area is a Civil War site that hosted a pivotal moment in history. Get your heart pumping on the class 5+ rapids, which are not for the faint of heart. If whitewater rafting is your thing, visit during the fall when the water is rough and wild, thanks to its 668-foot drop. Most of the fun happens in the upper Gauley at Sweet's Falls and Shipwreck. For water fun that's a little less turbulent, opt for some fishing at the lower Gauley or Meadow River. Both fall and spring are great fishing times.

To get to the Gauley recreation site, take Route 19 south from Summersville to Route 129 and turn northwest to the Summersville Dam and Upper Gauley River Put-In.