New River Gorge National River increasing access, services

GLEN JEAN, W.Va. (AP) — The New River Gorge National River is increasing access and services that were stopped in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

The National Park Service is using guidance from federal authorities and state and local health officials as it monitors the pandemic and increases access.

The park was reopening access beginning Saturday to Grandview Sandbar Campground, Glade Creek Campground and Stone Cliff Campground. Backcountry camping, hiking trails, river and river access points, vault toilets at heavy visitor use areas and group picnic shelters at Grandview continue to be available.

Facilities that remain closed include visitor centers, vault toilets at less popular areas, group campsites and campgrounds at Army Camp, Brooklyn, Gauley Tailwaters, Meadowcreek, Thayer, and War Ridge.