Gauley River National Recreation Area

Gauley River National Recreation Area spans a total area of about 11,506 acres of land that is located just off US 19 between Summersville and Fayetteville in West Virginia. The protected land was authorized as a national recreation area on October 26, 1988, and is governed by the National Park Service.

Several attractions make this recreation area an exciting place to visit. First of all, the national recreation area is home to six miles of the Meadow River and 25 miles of the free-flowing Gauley River that pass through picturesque gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of cultural and natural features. 

For those that are adventurers at heart, the Gauley River is a natural attraction simply because it contains several Class V+ rapids making it one of the most adventurous whitewater boating rivers in the eastern part of the country. Besides whitewater rafting, boating, and kayaking on the river, other activities for those that are tamer include camping, hiking, boating, fishing, and hunting. 

Dogs are permitted into Gauley River National Recreation Area albeit with some restrictions. Although most of the park will be accessible to dogs and dog owners, some regulations will need to be followed. These guidelines are designed to protect the park’s resources including the habitat and wildlife in the park. 

The rules are also intended to protect your pooch, other visitors, and their pets. Some of the rules are as follows. First, dogs are to be kept away from restricted areas of the park. For all other areas of the park where dogs can visit, the dog owner should ensure that their pooch is on a leash that is no longer than six feet in length. 

Secondly, dog owners should ensure that they keep their dogs well behaved at all times. This includes ensuring that the dog’s solid waste is cleaned up right away and disposed of properly. Gauley River National Recreation Area is a great place to kick back and relax with your pooch.