New River State Park
The New River was named a National Wild and Scenic River back in 1976. It wildly winds through some of the best North Carolina mountain scenery!
New River State Park is a base camp for exploration of this river at two principal spots on Wagoner Road access and US 221 access, they both offer walk-in camping a few hundred feet from parking areas and both offer paddling access. Also, bring the RV for camping, it is available at U.S. 221 access. Primitive, canoe-in camping is available at multiple access areas along the river. Brief trips or multi-day excursions can be arranged with private outfitters or careful planning if visitors bring their own kayaks or canoes. It’s easy to combine paddling, camping, fishing, picnicking and wildlife viewing. A visitor center has an exhibit hall that complements interpretive programs on the river’s history and ecology. Picnic shelters, as well as community-building, can be rented for family or group gatherings.
Reservations
Find and book a campsite or facility online
Or make your reservation at 1-877-722-6762
Elk Shoals
The Elk Shoals property features river access with a free swim beach area. The swim area is open from sunrise to sunset and has ample parking. Please note that there are no toilet facilities at this access. All trash must be carried out.
The Chapel on the New is now available to reserve, with a Special Activity Permit required. Please fill out the application here and email it to the park. The park superintendent must approve your application before you can host your event. There may be a fee associated with the permit; the cost of the fee would depend on expected attendance and how the park classifies your event. Future amenities at the access are set to open as renovations are made.
Firewood
Please do not bring firewood with you to the park. If you find or buy wood from the park, please do not take it back home with you. Burn all the wood or leave it at the park for other campers.
Foreign pests can travel with wood, and carrying firewood from one area to another can be detrimental to the local forest. We have firewood available for purchase, or you can collect wood and kindling from dead and downed trees.
Because of the seriousness of a potential infestation of the emerald ash borer, we are requesting that no firewood be brought into New River State Park.
The emerald ash borer is a destructive exotic beetle that feeds on ash trees. Park campgrounds and picnic areas are the most likely areas for EAB introduction into the park. We appreciate your help in protecting the natural resources of New River State Park and our state parks system.
For more information and explanation please visit:
River status
You can check the water levels of the New River by visiting the United States Geological Survey’s website for real-time river condition information.
A safe water level is between 300 and 1,000 cubic feet per second.
The New River State Park is a wonderful addition to Ashe County, NC!
Contact a park:
View the contact sheet for the email address and phone number of each park »
Camping and facility reservations:
1-877-722-6762
