Stone Cliff

Pros & cons

PROS

Free, first‑come primitive tent sites on the river
Trailhead for a mellow 5.7‑mile riverside hike

CONS

No potable water and basic vault toilets
Active train noise across the river, especially at night

Overview

Tucked near the historic railroad town of Thurmond, Stone Cliff is a low‑key riverside corner of the gorge where you can camp on sand, wander along the New River, and unplug. It’s primitive and simple—think walk‑in tent sites and a mellow trail starting right from the picnic area—so the payoff is peace, river views, and easy access to the water’s edge.

Camping: What to Expect

This is a free, first‑come campground with seven walk‑in, tent‑only sites: five on a sandy beach beside the New River and two tucked in nearby woods. Plan to carry your gear from the parking area—many river sites are down a set of steps. Facilities are basic: vault toilets up by the lot, trash bins at the parking area, and a few picnic tables near the picnic area. There are no hookups or showers, and there’s no potable water, so bring everything you need. Cell service is generally nonexistent. By day, rafting shuttles may use the nearby boat launch; by night, expect periodic train noise from the active line across the river.

The Hike: Stone Cliff Trail

From the picnic area, the Stone Cliff Trail heads out as a mostly shaded, riverside out‑and‑back. It’s about 5.7 miles round‑trip with roughly 350 feet of gain—easy‑to‑moderate for most hikers. You’ll follow the river with multiple access points and hit a rock bar and rapids around 2.7 miles. Dogs are welcome on leash. Expect occasional mud and summer bugs; waterproof footwear and repellent help. Spring through late fall is the sweet spot.

Nature, Wildlife, and Geology

You’ll see classic New River Gorge layers here—stout sandstone cliffs interbedded with shale and occasional coal seams—evidence of an ancient river system that carved a steep, V‑shaped canyon over millions of years. Birding can be rewarding along the riparian corridor, and spring wildflowers pop. Black bears live in the area; give them space, leash pets, and keep food smells locked down.

Safety Notes

The New River’s currents and drop‑offs are powerful even at the edge; swimming is discouraged. Watch footing on slick rock shelves near the water. Some visitors report litter or bits of broken glass in sandy areas—wear sturdy footwear around camp.

Getting There

From US‑19, take the Glen Jean–Thurmond exit. Go left toward Glen Jean, then right on WV‑25 following signs to Thurmond for about 6 miles. At the three‑way intersection, bear right for 1.5 miles, then turn right onto the gravel road just before the bridge over the New River. Pass the boat launch to the large gravel parking area; the picnic area and trail start here.

Best Time to Visit

Camping: Arrive early on weekends—sites are limited and first‑come. Weekdays are the quiet win.
Hiking: Mornings or late afternoon for softer light and cooler temps; March–November has the best conditions.
Photography: Early and late light works nicely along the river corridor.