Kanawha Falls
Gauley Bridge, WV
A broad low waterfall where the New and Gauley rivers join to form the Kanawha. It is seen easily from a roadside pull-off near Gauley Bridge, so it fits a quick stop between the gorge and Charleston.
About a mile (1.6 km) below Gauley Bridge, where the New River and the Gauley River join to form the Kanawha River, lies Kanawha Falls. The falls stretch in an irregular line across the whole width of the river. Figures for the height differ: the National Park Service gives up to 5 meters (15 feet), the West Virginia Encyclopedia more than 6 meters (20 feet). The falls form a natural barrier for migrating fish.
Since about 1900 a low dam has raised the water level and feeds a hydroelectric plant. US 60 runs right past the falls, so you can see them without hiking; the nearest parking is a gravel lot with picnic tables. Around 1812 Aaron Stockton settled here; the inn he opened later survives as the Glen Ferris Inn. A stop of 15 to 30 minutes is enough; it fits well with a drive through the New River Gorge.
- Nearest town
- Gauley Bridge, WV
- Category
- Nature & parks
- GPS
- 38.1528, -81.2122
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- American Alpine Club New River Gorge CampgroundCampsite9 mi from Kanawha Falls
- Arrowhead Bike Farm CampgroundCampsite11 mi from Kanawha Falls
- Hilltop SunriseMotorhome stopover14 mi from Kanawha Falls · 2 pitchesMotorhomesElectricityWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Mountain Top RV Park & CabinsMotorhome stopover16 mi from Kanawha FallsMotorhomes
- Summersville Lake RetreatMotorhome stopover19 mi from Kanawha Falls · 65 pitchesTentsMotorhomes
- Mountain Lake CampgroundCampsite19 mi from Kanawha Falls
All campsites in West Virginia · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Kanawha Falls?
Kanawha Falls is in Gauley Bridge, WV, at GPS 38.1528, -81.2122. It is about 9 mi from Fayetteville.
Can you camp near Kanawha Falls?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is American Alpine Club New River Gorge Campground, about 9 mi away; within 25 mi there are 35 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
What is there to see near Kanawha Falls?
Places worth a stop nearby: Hawks Nest State Park (5 mi), New River Gorge Bridge (9 mi), Thurmond Historic District (15 mi) and Glade Creek Grist Mill, Babcock State Park (19 mi).
When is the best time to visit Kanawha Falls?
The most pleasant months are usually May and September–October. Still fine, with some compromises, in April, June and August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)