GLEN JEAN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The New River Gorge region has been a part of the National Park System since 1978 after President Jimmy Carter signed a bill into law that was passed by Congress to designate 53-miles of the New River and surrounding land as a National River.
The Park borders extend through Fayette, Raleigh, and Summers Counties.
On December 22, 2020, Congress passed legislation that re-designated the New River Gorge National River as a National Park & Preserve. The legislation was then signed into law by President Donald Trump.
Since then, the region has seen a major uptick in visitation as well as an increase in revenue for local businesses and hotels.
The New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is also the only U.S. National Park that allows hunting within its borders.
The Park features many activities such as hiking, biking, zip-lining, whitewater rafting, fishing, and many scenic overlooks.