New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area - Shady Spring, WV
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area – Dog-Friendly Natural Adventure in Shady Spring, WV
Discover a breathtaking blend of nature and adventure at the Sandstone Falls Recreation Area in Shady Spring, West Virginia. Known for its scenic beauty and easy-access boardwalks, this unique stop along the New River Gorge welcomes families and their pets to explore miles of dog-friendly hiking trails and incredible river views. Walk the level boardwalk to picturesque viewpoints, or try the Island Loop Trail for an outdoor experience both you and your dog will love. The area is famous for its expansive natural landscapes, low waterfalls, tranquil beaches, and the chance to spot local wildlife. There’s even river access where you and your leashed pet can wade or play on hot days.
Pet owners will appreciate the park’s broad open spaces, flat trails, and the sense of adventure. While there isn’t a dedicated off-leash dog park or fenced dog area, responsible pet parents can enjoy hiking, swimming in tide pools, or relaxing along the shaded, rocky shores with their dogs. Restrooms are available in outhouse form, and seating spots can often be found along the walkways or natural beach areas. With easy navigation via Google Maps and plenty to see and do, the Sandstone Falls area is a must-visit dog park near Shady Spring, WV.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park?
Yes, the park features dog-friendly boardwalks and hiking trails, including the Island Loop Trail. - Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs?
Yes, dogs on leash can access the river and tide pools for swimming and wading. - Is there shade or shelter available?
There is natural shade along the trails and shoreline provided by trees and the landscape. - Are restrooms available for owners?
Yes, outhouse-style restrooms are available at the park. - Where is the best place to park?
Parking is available at the park’s trailhead and main access point near the boardwalk. - Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained?
Yes, reviews mention a well-maintained main trail and boardwalk area. - How busy does the park get on weekends?
The area can get crowded on sunny or hot days, especially at the beach.
Reviews
Beautiful place, low falls but very scenic against the valley backdrop of wide open space. Walked the trail to the viewpoint, took the access point off the boardwalk and explored further. Came back and took the loop trail and came within ten feet of a deer just casually eating. We froze and just enjoyed the few minutes as we got checked out, and she eventually just walked off into the brush. While the water was low the falls were actually falls unlike some other nearby parks that had no water at this time of year. Easy trail, access to the water if you wanted to check it out. Great view.
Beautiful place, low falls but very scenic against the valley backdrop of wide open space. Walked the trail to the viewpoint, took the access point off the boardwalk and explored further. Came back and took the loop trail and came within ten feet of a deer just casually eating. We froze and just enjoyed the few minutes as we got checked out, and she eventually just walked off into the brush. While the water was low the falls were actually falls unlike some other nearby parks that had no water at this time of year. Easy trail, access to the water if you wanted to check it out. Great view.
Beautiful place, low falls but very scenic against the valley backdrop of wide open space. Walked the trail to the viewpoint, took the access point off the boardwalk and explored further. Came back and took the loop trail and came within ten feet of a deer just casually eating. We froze and just enjoyed the few minutes as we got checked out, and she eventually just walked off into the brush. While the water was low the falls were actually falls unlike some other nearby parks that had no water at this time of year. Easy trail, access to the water if you wanted to check it out. Great view.
The boardwalk was great and the waterfalls were gorgeous! I recommend going to the end of the boardwalk and on the way back taking the Island Loop Trail to the beginning. This was a perfect walk for a 3 year old and 8 month old. Also, easy to get to with Google maps.
The boardwalk was great and the waterfalls were gorgeous! I recommend going to the end of the boardwalk and on the way back taking the Island Loop Trail to the beginning. This was a perfect walk for a 3 year old and 8 month old. Also, easy to get to with Google maps.
The boardwalk was great and the waterfalls were gorgeous! I recommend going to the end of the boardwalk and on the way back taking the Island Loop Trail to the beginning. This was a perfect walk for a 3 year old and 8 month old. Also, easy to get to with Google maps.
We stopped by driving through the area. This spot is a little tricky to get to. We drove across Irish Mountain Road from the Pluto Rd exit off I-64. That was an adventure in itself! I see now why maps won’t route you this way, even though it is the shortest distance from the highway.
The park area itself is beautiful. Well maintaind main trail and bridges with spectacular views overlooking the river and falls. We also hiked the island loop trail. This trail is mostly flat but has lots jagged rocks and tree roots in the trail. There are some large rock steps near the end. You get to see the slower almost creek like side across from the parking area, and also the wide river with rocky shore. We did get down to the shore once back on the main trail and got to the beach and walked in the river. Kids loved that. There were some people swimming in a few of the tide pools just after the falls, but we weren’t ready for that. Lovely area that wasn’t too busy on a Tuesday evening. Bathrooms are the typical outhouse style, be prepared. Would recommend.
We stopped by driving through the area. This spot is a little tricky to get to. We drove across Irish Mountain Road from the Pluto Rd exit off I-64. That was an adventure in itself! I see now why maps won’t route you this way, even though it is the shortest distance from the highway.
The park area itself is beautiful. Well maintaind main trail and bridges with spectacular views overlooking the river and falls. We also hiked the island loop trail. This trail is mostly flat but has lots jagged rocks and tree roots in the trail. There are some large rock steps near the end. You get to see the slower almost creek like side across from the parking area, and also the wide river with rocky shore. We did get down to the shore once back on the main trail and got to the beach and walked in the river. Kids loved that. There were some people swimming in a few of the tide pools just after the falls, but we weren’t ready for that. Lovely area that wasn’t too busy on a Tuesday evening. Bathrooms are the typical outhouse style, be prepared. Would recommend.
We stopped by driving through the area. This spot is a little tricky to get to. We drove across Irish Mountain Road from the Pluto Rd exit off I-64. That was an adventure in itself! I see now why maps won’t route you this way, even though it is the shortest distance from the highway.
The park area itself is beautiful. Well maintaind main trail and bridges with spectacular views overlooking the river and falls. We also hiked the island loop trail. This trail is mostly flat but has lots jagged rocks and tree roots in the trail. There are some large rock steps near the end. You get to see the slower almost creek like side across from the parking area, and also the wide river with rocky shore. We did get down to the shore once back on the main trail and got to the beach and walked in the river. Kids loved that. There were some people swimming in a few of the tide pools just after the falls, but we weren’t ready for that. Lovely area that wasn’t too busy on a Tuesday evening. Bathrooms are the typical outhouse style, be prepared. Would recommend.
Beautiful park that the whole family can enjoy for about an hour or so. The boardwalk is easy for young to old, and has great views of the river and falls. The trail is optional, and worth checking out if you have time, but not worth it on its own. You can make your stay longer if you hang out at the “beach”, but it probably gets crowded on sunny/hot days in the summer.