New River Gorge in March: Crowds, Weather & What to Pack

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March is one of the best months of the year to visit New River Gorge National Park: crowds run 33% of the July peak (91,441 average visits), days average 52°F with 11.9 hours of daylight. Computed from NPS and NOAA data.

Crowds in March

New River Gorge averages 91,441 recreation visits in March — 33% of what July, the peak month, draws. That crowd level sets the tone for parking, permits and lodging.

Weather & daylight

Daytime stays cool (highs average 52°F), and nights drop below freezing (lows average 31°F). This is one of the wetter months (4.2″ of precipitation on average). Mid-month daylight runs 11.9 hours.

NOAA 1991–2020 monthly normals, station OAK HILL, WV US (4 mi from park coordinates, 2,040 ft elevation) — conditions vary inside the park, especially with elevation. Daylight computed for the 15th of March.

What to pack for New River Gorge in March

Computed from the month's weather normals above — not a generic list.

• Insulated jacket, beanie and gloves — nights average 31°F, below freezing
• Rain shell + pack cover — 4.2″ of precipitation is normal this month
• Sturdy broken-in footwear, navigation and a basic first-aid kit — every park, every month

Common questions

See also: the best national parks to visit in March · Last verified 2026-07-16