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Kayaking the New River in Virginia was a trip of a lifetime. The Blue Ridge Parkway right next to the New River doesn’t hurt either. Multiple hydroelectric dams on the New River (including the Hawks Nest dam) change the flow and landscape of the river and the water levels and whitewater rapids.

Paddling through one of the oldest rivers in the world I felt exposed and grateful. This trip is for all levels of kayak campers. Join me as I share my trip, tips and the beauty of kayak camping on the New River.

Key Takeaways

The New River offers a unique kayaking experience through a 53-mile stretch in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.
Encounter scenic views, long pools, and Class III-IV rapids suitable for varying skill levels.
Observe old railroad tracks, historic bridges, and industrial remnants along the river.
The best kayaking season is from April to October, with peak conditions starting around May 24th.
Tangent Outfitters provided essential support, including route adjustments and transportation.
My mistake of using water-resistant bags led to soaked gear, underscoring the need for proper preparation.
The New River is home to diverse fish species like smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, and catfish.
Weather updates led us to call Tangent Outfitters for help.

Paddling Through History: Kayaking the New River

The New River carves a 53-mile stretch of free-flowing New River within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. This American Heritage River is the 63rd National Park in the United States, and it offers a scenic journey for paddlers. The Upper New River provides beautiful views, with long pools and manageable rapids up to Class III and possibly a few Class IV, promising an exciting yet accessible adventure.

Pembroke, Virginia, serves as a gateway to the remarkable geological features along the New River. Situated on the iconic New River Gorge, the town showcases deep valleys and towering cliffs that the river has sculpted over millennia. The ancient rock formations here provide insight into the geological processes that have shaped the region for over 300 million years.

This area is steeped in history, from Native American tribes to early European settlers and the 19th-century industrial boom. Paddling along this stretch, you may come across remnants of old mining operations, abandoned railway lines, and historic homesteads, each with its own story. The river serves as a living museum, preserving the legacies of those who lived and worked along its shores.

New River Industrial Heritage

The New River Valley was an industrial powerhouse in the 1800s when coal and timber were in high demand. The river was the lifeblood for transporting these resources and the towns and industries that grew along its banks. As you paddle through this section, you can still see remnants of the industrial past: old railroad tracks, rusty equipment, and remains of sawmills and coal mines. A reminder of the river’s role in American industry.

Also, multiple hydroelectric dams on the New River have altered the river and its industrial history. For example, the dam at Hawks Nest diverts the river into a 3-mile tunnel to power a chemical plant. Dam releases can turn a section of the river, called the Dries, into whitewater.

Several landmarks are along the river for those interested in exploring this industrial heritage. Historic bridges, some still in use and others preserved as monuments are fun stops along the way. These active tracks are a glimpse into the New River’s ongoing story.

Active Train Tracks: A Bridge to the Past and Present

Today the New River is not just a relic of the past; it’s still an active railroad corridor and a vital transportation route. Modern railroads run alongside the river, and trains go through this historic landscape several times a day. These tracks are a connection to the region’s industrial heritage and the ongoing importance of rail.

Trains run on the New River line several times a day and more at night depending on the time of year. The rhythmic clatter of the train wheels on the tracks is part of the camping experience, especially after dark. Hearing a train whistle blow through the valley at night can be nostalgic and exciting, connecting paddlers and campers to the region’s history. Don’t count on getting much sleep but that’s all part of the camping experience.

Planning

Kayak camping on the New River requires some planning to make the most of the experience. The primary season for rafting and kayaking on the New River is April to October with the peak summer season starting around May 24th when Zaloo’s Canoes opens fully. This is when the weather is warm and the water is perfect for kayaking.

Note there are multiple hydroelectric dams on the New River. The releases from these dams affect the water level and rapids which is important to know when planning your trip. The section of the river beyond the dam is called the Dries and is a direct result of the releases and the only way to truly appreciate it is to be on the river.

I chose the Eggleston to Bluff City Boat Ramp section for this trip. This is a scenic and historic part of the New River with a mix of calm water and rapids.

Help From Tangent Outfitters

We made contact with a local outdoor clothing, equipment, adventure guide, and convenience store near Pembroke called Tangent Outfitters. The owner gave us some great tips and tricks, which he didn't have to do because we weren't purchasing a tour from him. We wanted to explore on our own time. Group tours are slow since you must always wait for everyone. This was a calculated risk but something we were more than capable of handling.

Tangent Outfitters agreed to chauffeur us and our gear to Ingles Landing at Eggleston in our truck. He would then keep our vehicle safe until our planned return 3 days later and pick us up wherever we ended up. Knowing we had a local connection in case of any questions, concerns, or problems was excellent.

Tangent Outfitters also helped us adjust our planned route to accomplish our goals, considering that the water was more cloudy from recent storms the further downriver you went. We almost canceled because of the water quality, but putting a trip like this together takes a lot of planning, and we didn't want to lose our window of opportunity, so we hit the river.

Tips for Planning

Seasonal Timing: Plan your trip between April and October for the best conditions. Peak season, starting May 24th, offers the warmest weather.
Safety First: Always wear a life jacket and check river conditions before leaving. Rapid maps and information on water levels are crucial for safe navigation.
Camping Gear: Ensure you have all necessary camping equipment and dry bags to protect your gear from water.
Historical Sites: Allocate time to explore historical sites and natural formations along the route for a richer experience.

For additional resources and detailed maps, visit Zaloo's Canoes and New River Gorge National Park.

Gear:

If you're interested in the gear I used and my thoughts about it, check out this post on the Kayaking the New River Gear blog here.

Trip:

We put in at a location on the river Tangent Outfitters recommended. They met us at the drop-off location, stored our truck overnight and delivered it to our take-out site. They were accommodating and are really awesome people. Tangent Outfitters was also a convenience store for small bait and tackle and some food and drinks (including some adult beverages).

We put in and started our way downriver. The current was just average. The scenery was beautiful, with green deciduous trees along a rocky side wall on each section, sometimes stretching hundreds of feet. After 15 minutes of paddling, we came to our first section of "moving water." It wasn't strong enough to call rapids; however, it was significant enough that you realized there's only one direction now. You couldn't turn around if you wanted to. It's a great feeling.

A few more minutes downstream, we can see whitewater coming. It was a small section about the size of a house, but we aimed right for it. I'd classify that small section as class II.

Paddling.com identifies rapid intensity as shown below:

Class A- Lake water. Still. No perceptible movement. Met.
Class I - Easy. Smooth water, light riffles, clear passages, occasional sand banks, and gentle curves. The most difficult problems might arise when paddling around bridges and other obvious obstructions.
Class II - Moderate. Medium-quick water; rapids with regular waves; clear and open passages between rocks and ledges. Maneuvering required. Best handled by intermediates who can maneuver canoes and read water.
Class III - Moderately complex. Numerous high and irregular waves, rocks, and eddies with passages clear but narrow and requiring experience to run. Visual inspection is required if rapids are unknown. Open canoes without flotation bags will have difficulty. These rapids are best left to canoeists with expert skills.
Class IV - Difficult. Long and powerful rapids and standing waves; souse holes and boiling eddies. Powerful and precise maneuvering is required. Visual inspection is mandatory. It cannot be run in canoes unless the craft is decked or adequately equipped with flotation bags. Advance preparations for possible rescue work essential.
Class V - Extremely difficult. Long and violent rapids that follow each other almost without interruption. The river filled with obstructions. Big drops and violent currents. Extremely steep gradient. Even reconnoitering may be difficult. Rescue preparations are mandatory. Top experts in specially equipped whitewater canoes, decked craft, and kayaks can run it only.
Class VI - Extraordinarily difficult. Paddlers face constant threat of death because of extreme danger. Navigable only when water levels and conditions are favorable. This violent whitewater should be left to paddlers of Olympic ability. Every safety precaution must be taken.

Eggleston: The Starting Point

Eggleston serves as the starting point of this kayaking adventure. This small town, nestled in the New River Valley, is a gateway to the river's natural and historical treasures. As you set off from Eggleston, the calm waters provide an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the river's flow and the surrounding landscape.

Rapids and Scenic Views

As you paddle downstream from Eggleston, you'll encounter several Class I rapids. These manageable rapids offer the right thrill while remaining accessible to paddlers of varying skill levels. Key rapid locations along this stretch include:

Surprise Rapid: A fun, bouncy rapid early in the trip, perfect for pumping your adrenaline.
Mary Ingles Rapid: Named after the legendary Mary Draper Ingles, who escaped captivity and followed the New River to freedom. This rapid offers both historical intrigue and an exciting challenge.
Shoals Rapid: Known for its shallow waters and rocky terrain, this rapid requires careful navigation and provides a test of your paddling skills.

Another notable location along the New River is Gauley Bridge, which marks the end of a 26-mile stretch declared Wild and Scenic from Dog Creek.

Refer to the American Whitewater New River page for detailed rapid locations and planning.

Historical and Natural Features

One of the most striking features along this route is the presence of historical remnants from the New River's industrial past. As you navigate, look for:

Old Railroad Tracks: Active train tracks run parallel to the river, with several trains passing through daily and especially at night. The sight and sound of these trains add a unique dimension to the trip, connecting the present to the river's storied past.
Historic Bridges: Several bridges span the river, some still in use and others preserved as monuments. These structures provide picturesque viewpoints and a glimpse into the region's engineering history.
Natural Formations: The river cuts through ancient rock formations, showcasing the geological history of over 300 million years. These formations are particularly prominent near Pembroke and the VA-WV line.

Navigating the Rapids: Class I to IV

Maneuvering through the New River's rapids, including the challenging Class III rapids, offers an exhilarating experience filled with continuous challenges. The river features a range of rapids from gentle Class I to adrenaline-pumping Class IV, catering to kayakers and rafters of different skill levels. Releases from hydroelectric dams can affect the water levels and rapids, making it essential for kayakers to stay informed about dam release schedules.

Whitewater rafting is one of the premier adventure activities in the New River Gorge, with different sections of the river offering a variety of rapids and experiences. For beginners or those seeking a more relaxed experience, the southern parts of the New River provide more accessible rapids up to Class III, perfect for a peaceful float. For those seeking a challenge, venturing downstream from Thurmond encounters more demanding Class III to IV rapids.

For the thrill-seekers, the Lower Gorge area offers the most exhilarating and challenging stretches, featuring rapids from Class III to Class V. No matter your experience level, the New River provides a whitewater adventure tailored to your thrill-seeking desires.

The Importance of Waterproof Bags: A Lesson Learned the Hard Way

Packing your gear in 100% waterproof bags is essential for kayak camping. Trust me, I learned this the hard way. As I prepared for my trip down the New River, I decided to get away with a couple of water-resistant bags—a significant mistake.

You see when you're paddling through rapids, there's always a chance you'll get stuck on rocks. And when you do, the water doesn't take a polite detour around you. Oh no, it becomes an aggressive, relentless force trying to get over or around you—and your gear.

My Not-So-Brilliant Idea

In my infinite wisdom, I decided that my old, trusty, water-resistant hiking bag would do just fine. "How ad could it be?" I thought. Well, let me tell you, it was terrible. Imagine my surprise when I got wedged stuck on some rocks in the middle of a rapid. Determined as ever, the water gushed over the Kayak while I flailed around, trying to free myself. Meanwhile, my "water-resistant" bags were thoroughly soaked.

The Consequences

When I managed to unstick myself and paddle to calmer waters, my gear was in a sorry state. My phone was sitting in the Kayak before me but was 4" underwater. When it's your clothes, electronics, or food, ensure everything is packed in bags that can withstand submerging. Waterproof bags ensure your gear stays dry, no matter how often you get stuck or how aggressive the water becomes. I spent hours drying everything out on the trip and returning.

Pro Tips for Packing

Invest in Quality: Spend a little extra on high-quality waterproof bags. Trust me, it's worth it.
Double Bagging: For extra protection, double-bag essential items. Please place them in a waterproof bag, then put that bag inside another one.
Dry Bags: Use specialized dry bags for sleeping bags and clothes. They're designed to keep moisture out even in the worst conditions.
Seal It Right: Make sure all bags are appropriately sealed. Roll on the tops and clip them securely.

Fishing from Your Kayak

The New River has more than just rapids and adrenaline. It also has calm fishing for those looking to get away. West Virginia is an outdoor and nature lover’s paradise and fishing in the New River is one of the top activities. I bought a relatively cheap telescoping fishing rod and some gear. Angles can target:

One of the best ways to fish this stretch of the river is to focus on the rocky ledges and deep pools where the fish congregate. Smallmouth bass are abundant and can be found near submerged structures and along the banks. Use lures that imitate local baitfish like crankbaits and soft plastics and you’ll increase your chances of landing a big one. Fly fishermen will love the New River’s steady flow and abundance of insects for dry fly and nymph patterns.

The water was cloudy from the storms so fishing could have been better. But it was nice to fish in those waters anyway.

Finding the Perfect Island Camp

The New River offers opportunities for primitive camping along the river with no fees. These campsites are managed on a first-come, first-served basis and sometimes include picnic tables, fire rings, and grills.

Hawks Nest Lake, a notable New River Gorge National Park & Preserve location, offers various recreational activities such as stand-up paddleboard rentals and jet boat rides.

We wanted to find a river island to camp on, but it was much more complicated than we had expected. Fortu lately, Tangent Outfitters rescued us, guiding us to the perfect little island near the Rocky Hollow Bridge. This pot was not immediately apparent but proved an ideal campsite, thanks to their expert local knowledge.

Upon arriving, we quickly realized that everything was pretty wet from recent rains, which made starting a fire tricky. However, we eventually managed to get one going, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for our evening. The I land had enough space for a tent setup and a hammock, providing plenty of room for everyone to get comfortable. Although we had to carry our kayaks across the small island, it was a minor inconvenience compared to the beauty and tranquility that awaited us on the other side.

There's something peaceful about sleeping under the stars on the water's edge until the train blows its whistle. That's the opposite of peace. A train came through the canyon every hour or so all night. We never really went to sleep. It was one of those situations where you were aware of your surroundings yet still kind of sleeping. This was a July trip, so it was relentlessly humid and warm all night. If I'm being honest, it sucked.

Morning Surprises and Weather Worries

I woke up to birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves, a perfect start to our morning on the island. However, our peace was interrupted by a concerning update on my phone: a flash flood watch and severe storm watch for our area, which was expected to hit right around the time we arrived at our next campsite. This unexpected twist threw a wrench into our plans, but we decided not to make any hasty decisions.

Instead, we started our morning routine with a hearty breakfast. We co-ked on our JetBoil camp stove and enjoyed a great meal with Mountain House's dehydrated Breakfast Skillet and some coffee. As we packed up, the tension about the weather grew.

Early Brunch and a Change of Plans

As we got closer to Bluff City Boat Ramp and Bridge an island caught our eye. This rocky outcrop had a small breakoff channel with a strong flow, perfect for a thrill ride. Before we hit this narrow rapid we decided to stop for an early brunch on the island.

The island was a sight to see; almost all rock and boulders and a few trees managed to grow wherever they could find soil. It was a rough and wild place to stop. As we walked around we found a huge pile of debris—trees and limbs stacked 15 feet high. A reminder of the river’s power, especially during high water, of how wild and unpredictable mountain rivers like the New River can be.

We enjoyed our brunch but couldn’t shake the feeling of unease. A quick check of the forecast showed the storms were getting closer and more intense. The flash flood watch had turned into a warning.

We realized the danger and called an audible. Safety first. We reached out to Tangent Outfitters, who had been great to us all trip, and arranged for them to come get us. Cutting our trip short was a tough decision but the sight of that debris pile and the darkening sky made it the right one.

We went back to the same spot to hit the narrow rapid one more time before we headed to the pickup. The ride down the breakoff was a blast.

Tangent Outfitters Safe Haven

When Tangent Outfitters picked us up, we were so glad to have a guide. He not only gave us good advice but also told us about rental houses he managed. With storm warnings in effect, camping by the river was no longer an option and driving 6 hours home was daunting. He offered us a small house right on the water for less than a hotel room—an easy decision.

The riverside house was perfect. It was warm, dry and safe and we settled in just as the storm hit. The night brought thunder and rain and we were glad we sought shelter. It’s a good lesson in respecting nature and being flexible.

Kayaking the New River in Virginia was beautiful, educational and practical. Weather and gear issues and all, it was awesome and humbling. The New River has something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to embark on a river adventure on the New River?

The best time to embark on a river adventure on the New River is from April through October. The summer season at Zaloo's Canoes starts on May 24th. So, plan your adventure accordingly!

What kind of rapids can I expect on the New River?

You can expect a range of rapids on the New River, from gentle Class I to thrilling Class IV, making it suitable for kayakers and rafters of different skill levels. Enjoy your adventure!

Can I fish on the New River?

Yes, fishing is allowed on the New River, and you can catch various fish species, such as Smallmouth Bass, Muskellunge, Walleye, and Channel Catfish. Enjoy your angling adventure!

Are there accommodation options near the New River Gorge?

Various accommodation options are available near the New River Gorge, such as motels, cabins, beds and breakfasts, and lodges in nearby state parks, as well as options at resorts like ACE Adventure Resort and Adventures on the Gorge.

Can I camp along the New River?

Yes, you can camp along the New River at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, which offers primitive camping opportunities with no fees, as well as group camping areas and RV campsites. Enjoy your camping adventure!

Overnight White Water Kayak Trip Down The New River VA