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Grandview Sandbar

4.5
·162 reviews·Beaver, United States

Free, primitive camping on the New River in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park. Ideal for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium
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Grandview Sandbar - Image 1

Grandview Sandbar

Best Time

Summer mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Free, primitive camping on the New River in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park. Ideal for hikers, kayakers, and nature lovers.

4.5
(162 reviews)

"A beautiful, free campground with river access, perfect for a rustic outdoor escape. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel

The 1-lane gravel drive to the campground is tight. Best for tents or small RVs. :car:

👂 Pack Earplugs for Trains

Trains frequently pass on the other side of the river, especially at night.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

New River Access

New River Access

Grandview Sandbar

Direct access to the New River for swimming, fishing, and launching small watercraft. Perfect for a refreshing dip or aquatic adventures.

Primitive Campsites

Primitive Campsites

Grandview Sandbar Campground

Free, first-come, first-served sites with fire rings and picnic tables. Ideal for tents and small RVs, offering a true back-to-nature experience.

Nearby Hiking Trails

Nearby Hiking Trails

Grandview Area

Explore stunning trails like Endless Wall and Long Point, offering breathtaking views of the New River Gorge.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Camping & Primitive Sites

Grandview Sandbar offers free, primitive camping with vault toilets and fire rings. Sites are first-come, first-served and best suited for tents or small RVs. Bring your own firewood and earplugs for the nearby trains! Reddit+1

Access & Activities

This spot is ideal for hiking, kayaking, and rafting base camps. Enjoy easy access to the New River for swimming and fishing, with a boat launch available. Nearby trails like Endless Wall and Long Point are highly recommended. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

End of summer camping trip @newrivernps with my bestie! ⛺️🌳🌧️ ✔️ Loved the scenery at Grandview Sandbar Campground - did you know it’s free to camp here?!? ✔️ Hiking trails were awesome - Endless Wall, Grandview Overlook & Turkey Spur we’re highlights! ✔️ Brunch @cathedralcafe in Fayetteville was divine.
katiehaunstein
30 likes • 315 views

🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel

The 1-lane gravel drive to the campground is tight. Best for tents or small RVs. Reddit :car:

👂 Pack Earplugs for Trains

Trains frequently pass on the other side of the river, especially at night. Reddit+1

@the_owenbiggs and Jillian were sick today so we had to bike shuttle Glade creek to the Grandview sandbar… such a fun day!
jameybiggs
26 likes • 465 views
The New River at Grandview Sandbar Put in Raleigh, WV 6/20/22 6:15 am
jaybirdpayne
7 likes • 193 views

🪵 Bring Your Own Firewood

Firewood is not sold nearby; purchase or haul it in before arriving. Reddit

💧 Vault Toilets Only

Be prepared for primitive facilities; no flushing toilets or showers available. Reddit

Camped 3 nights in West Virginia with 1 wife and 2 pups… Set up camp in the rain at Grayson Highlands State Park. Drove Back of the Dragon, Daniel Boone Trail, and Black Snake. Camped at Grandview Sandbar in New River Gorge National Park. Hiked Long Point Trail. Watched BASE jumpers at New River Gorge Bridge. Pit stop in Asheville, NC. Drove down the Blue Ridge Parkway & caught sunset. Ate...
twank11
13 likes • 544 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Drive Carefully on Gravel

The 1-lane gravel drive to the campground is tight. Best for tents or small RVs. Reddit :car:

👂 Pack Earplugs for Trains

Trains frequently pass on the other side of the river, especially at night. Reddit+1

🪵 Bring Your Own Firewood

Firewood is not sold nearby; purchase or haul it in before arriving. Reddit

💧 Vault Toilets Only

Be prepared for primitive facilities; no flushing toilets or showers available. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun

This campground welcomes dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(162 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Grandview Sandbar is praised for its beautiful scenery, free primitive camping, and direct New River access, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. However, the noise from nearby trains and the basic amenities (vault toilets, no showers) are noted drawbacks. Reddit+1

"Spent a week here leading up to Labor Day. It was beautiful! It’s pretty clean. The camping sites are very nice and close to the river. Quiet time is from 10-6. I believe from 10-6 it’s louder than the day time. A lot of vehicle traffic and trains blowing whistles very close to you… just across the river to be accurate. As you’d guess that’s the reason for my 4 not 5 star rating 🤣 Beautiful place loved it! Would definitely recommend!"

Peaceful_Gnome

"Very nice campground drive in or walk in sites. Close for a walk around the river. Or short drive to Glade Creek for a hike to waterfall swimming hole"

Jon Henderson

"A Free campground in the national park near the New River. Vault toilets. Small rv pop up tear drop or tent camping primitive camping. Walk in sites also. Beautiful scenery. Dog friendly. No playgrounds. Each site has a picnic table and fire ring. Train tracks across the river with a lot of trains at night hauling coal bring ear plugs . I would stay again. Some great hiking trails near by."

Randy Kunath. AfterAnotherAdventure

What People Like

Free camping
River access
Scenic beauty

What People Dislike

Train noise
Primitive facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Grandview Sandbar is located in the New River Gorge National Park. Access is via a 1-lane gravel drive, which can be challenging for larger vehicles. It's recommended for tents or small RVs. Reddit

Yes, you can drive to Grandview Sandbar, but the road is a narrow gravel path. Larger RVs and trailers may find it difficult to navigate. Reddit

For smaller vehicles and tents, the gravel drive is manageable. Larger rigs should consider parking and walking in to scout sites. Reddit

The nearest towns for supplies are typically Fayetteville or Beckley, which are a short drive away. It's best to stock up before heading to the sandbar. TikTok

Yes, biking is a popular way to access the sandbar, especially for shuttle runs like the one from Glade Creek. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Grandview Sandbar Campground is a free campground within the New River Gorge National Park. Reddit+1

Sites are first-come, first-served. However, signs indicate that starting in 2023, reservations may be required and done online. It's best to check current regulations. Reddit

As a campground, it's generally accessible 24/7, but quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, typical primitive campground stays are often limited. It's advisable to check with park rangers if planning an extended stay. Reddit

Amenities include vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. There are no hookups, showers, or flushing toilets. Reddit+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on the New River. It's also a great base camp for hiking nearby trails and exploring the national park. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's a great spot for a relaxing outdoor experience with family. Kids can enjoy the river access and exploring nature. Reddit

No, there are no playgrounds at this primitive campground. The focus is on natural recreation. Reddit

Expect noise from trains passing on the opposite side of the river, especially at night. Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM. Reddit

Yes, Grandview Sandbar is dog-friendly, making it a good option for travelers with pets. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Dining options are limited directly at the sandbar. Fayetteville and other nearby towns offer various restaurants, including popular spots like Cathedral Cafe. TikTok

Yes, each site has a fire ring, and some even have built-in grills, perfect for cooking meals outdoors. Reddit

It's recommended to purchase groceries in towns like Fayetteville or Beckley before arriving at the sandbar, as options are scarce nearby. TikTok

No, there is no potable water available at the campground. You'll need to bring all the water you need for drinking and cooking. Reddit

Yes, campfires are permitted in the provided fire rings, but ensure you have your own firewood. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the New River, the surrounding natural beauty, and the campsites. Sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light. Instagram

While the sandbar itself is scenic, nearby overlooks like Grandview Overlook offer panoramic views of the New River Gorge. TikTok

Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing golden hour hues. Instagram

Yes, trains are a prominent feature, but be mindful of safety and respect private property when photographing them. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture details of the trains or wildlife. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Grandview Sandbar is a fantastic, budget-friendly option for families looking for an outdoor escape. The free camping and direct access to the New River for swimming and playing make it a hit with kids. While there are no playgrounds, the natural environment provides ample opportunities for exploration and fun. Remember to pack essentials like earplugs for potential train noise and plenty of water, as amenities are primitive. Reddit+1

Consider exploring nearby family-friendly hikes like the relatively flat Long Point Trail. The dog-friendly nature of the campground is also a bonus for families with furry members. It's a great place to disconnect and enjoy quality time in nature without breaking the bank. Reddit

🎒 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Grandview Sandbar is a dream come true. The free camping is a major draw, eliminating accommodation costs. This allows visitors to allocate more funds towards activities like hiking, kayaking, or exploring nearby attractions. Reddit+1

Be prepared for primitive camping, which means bringing all your own supplies, including firewood and water. This self-sufficiency aligns perfectly with a budget travel style. The lack of hookups and showers is a trade-off for the significant savings. It's an excellent way to experience the beauty of the New River Gorge without the expense of traditional campgrounds. Reddit

🚗 Road Trippers

Grandview Sandbar is a perfect pit stop for road trippers exploring West Virginia. Its free camping and scenic location make it an attractive overnight option. Travelers can use it as a base to explore the New River Gorge, hike nearby trails, or simply relax by the river. TikTokReddit

Be mindful of the narrow gravel access road, which might be challenging for larger vehicles. However, for most cars and smaller campers, it's manageable. The proximity to scenic drives like the Back of the Dragon and Daniel Boone Trail makes it a convenient stop on a larger itinerary. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Grandview Sandbar

Grandview Sandbar offers a unique primitive camping experience right on the banks of the New River. The sites are free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, making it a popular spot for spontaneous trips. Visitors should be prepared for basic amenities, including vault toilets and fire rings. While some sites allow you to park your vehicle with your tent, others are walk-in sites, requiring a short carry. The campground is best suited for tents or small RVs due to the narrow, one-lane gravel access road. Reddit+2

It's crucial to bring your own firewood, as it's not available for purchase nearby. Many reviewers mention the presence of trains on the opposite side of the river, which can be noisy, especially at night. Packing earplugs is a common recommendation for light sleepers. Despite these considerations, the free camping and proximity to the river make it a highly recommended spot for those seeking a rustic outdoor adventure. Reddit+1

For those looking to explore beyond the campsite, Grandview Sandbar serves as an excellent base camp. Its location provides easy access to various outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to rafting. The dog-friendly nature of the campground also makes it a great choice for travelers with pets. Reddit

Exploring the New River Gorge from Grandview Sandbar

Grandview Sandbar is perfectly situated for exploring the wonders of the New River Gorge National Park. The New River itself is a major draw, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and launching small watercraft. A boat launch is available for those who wish to paddle or motor along the river. Reddit

Beyond the river, the area boasts exceptional hiking trails. Popular choices include the Endless Wall Trail, known for its stunning cliffside views, and the Long Point Trail, which offers iconic vistas of the New River Gorge Bridge. TikTok Other nearby attractions mentioned by visitors include the Grandview Overlook and Turkey Spur, providing diverse perspectives of the gorge's grandeur. TikTok

For adventure enthusiasts, the sandbar is an ideal starting point for kayaking and rafting trips. The proximity to put-in points and the river's accessibility make it a convenient hub for planning aquatic excursions. InstagramReddit

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