News Release

New playground delights young visitors in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

3915 Ribbon Cutting at the Dedication

NPS

News Release Date: August 23, 2024

Contact: Eve West, 304-719-6364

GLEN JEAN, WV- Laughter fills the air as kids swing, slide, and climb on new playground equipment in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Located steps away from spectacular scenery, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center in one of the most popular sections of the park, the new playground in the Grandview area includes a variety of interactive features, climbing access points, and elements for sensory play. 
 
The playground replaces aging equipment installed when Grandview was a West Virginia State Park. The fun features opened following a dedication and ribbon-cutting on August 7. Shortly after the ribbon was cut, 40 youth campers with the local YMCA of Southern West Virginia descended upon the playground and made quick use of the new equipment with enthusiasm and energy. The new playground was funded by a $100,000 donation from BHE GT&S Foundation to the National Park Foundation (NPF) that was matched by a $50,000 donation from NPF and a $50,000 donation from the Friends of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. 
 
Grandview hosted over 80,000 visitors last year, including many families and school groups. Additional information and alerts about the park can be found at nps.gov/neri and on Facebook and Instagram