AW Gauley River Festival ~ September 19-21, 2008 ~ Summersville, WV

Welcome to Gauley Fest, the paddling world’s biggest party! Started in 1983 to celebrate the derailment of a hydro-electric project that would have disrupted whitewater flows on the Gauley, Gauley Fest has grown to become the largest river festival in the world, posting attendance numbers of over 5,000 people in 2007.

The event focuses on bringing people to the area to enjoy a weekend of outdoor activities while showcasing whitewater paddlesports and raising funds and membership for American Whitewater. The festival is a three-day event, with the main activities taking place on Saturday night. Expect the festival site to be bustling throughout the weekend with food, vendors, and activities for paddlesport and non-paddlesport enthusiasts of all ages.

The festival will feature live entertainment, a whitewater marketplace, and a silent auction where you can pick up some awesome outdoor gear. The Gauley River Festival is a critical fundraiser for American Whitewater and is our largest fundraising event.

All proceeds from the festival support American Whitewater’s national river stewardship work. Come out and join us for a weekend of great paddling, exciting competitions, live entertainment, and the infamous silent auction.

Gauley River Information
Vendor Information
Driving Directions
Festival Schedule

Camping is available on the festival grounds Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights at a rate of $5 per person/night. Dogs are discouraged in the campground, however camping is available for dogs at a rate of $5 per dog/night (no kiddin!). All dogs must be on a leash at all times, and you must clean up after your dog. We are on a kid’s play area! No reservations are taken on camping; first come, first serve. Camping has been known to sell out, so come early. Gauley Festival Camping Rules

American Whitewater needs your help! Volunteers are needed for each of our festivals, as well as many other functions. Come help the organization that works for boaters by boaters.

If you are interested in volunteering for the Gauley River Festival, please click the button below to be taken to the American Whitewater volunteer page. Here you can submit your information so we can contact you, as well as letting us know of any special skills you have that could help us in running the festival. After submitting your information thru our website, you will be contacted by our volunteer coordinator who will inquire as to a job preference, as well as provide you with more information on volunteering. If you have any questions, concerns, or would just like more information regarding volunteering at the Gauley River Festival, please contact our volunteer coordinator Stacey Johnson.

Learn more about volunteering

American Whitewater’s silent auction is the highlight of many attending the Gauley River Festival. Each year festival attendees get great deals on boats, paddling and camping gear, and much more.