Two National Parks In West Virginia Remain Open With State Funding

By

NPT Staff
October 20, 2025

Both Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are remaining open thanks to funding
Both Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are remaining open thanks to funding from the state of West Virginia/NPS file.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park and New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are being kept open through funding provided by the state of West Virginia.

State officials signed an agreement with the Interior Department early this month, with Governor Patrick Morrisey saying his was the first state to reach such an agreement.

“We recognize the importance of our parks to the local economy and hardworking West Virginians, as well as the many visitors who want to enjoy our state’s natural beauty," Morrisey, a Republican, said at the time.

It's not a cheap move by the state, with the governor's office saying it costs nearly $100,000 to keep the two parks open for two weeks. The funding also only covers a handful of staff at the two parks, according to local reports.

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve/NPS file
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve/NPS file

Morrisey has said the state, if needed, will provide funding to keep the two parks open through the end of the month.

The two parks are key drivers of West Virginia's tourism industry. Harpers Ferrry attracted nearly 490,000 visitors last year, while New River Gorge drew 1.8 million. 

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks. 

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.