Overview & History
Thurmond, West Virginia, is a small town nestled along the New River in Fayette County, renowned for its rich history as a bustling railroad and coal mining hub. Founded in 1900 and named after Captain William D. Thurmond, who acquired the land in 1873 as payment for surveying, the town thrived in the early 20th century due to its strategic location along the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway.
At its peak, Thurmond was a prosperous commercial center, boasting hotels, banks, and a vibrant social scene, despite being accessible only by rail until 1921. Its decline began in the 1930s with the shift from steam to diesel locomotives and devastating fires, reducing its population to just five by 2020. Today, largely owned by the National Park Service as part of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Thurmond stands as a preserved historic district, offering a glimpse into its boomtown past.
Activities in Thurmond
1. Explore the Historic Thurmond Depot and Visitor Center
The Thurmond Depot, originally built in 1904 by the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway after its predecessor burned down, stands as a testament to the town’s bustling railroad past. Today, it serves as a visitor center managed by the National Park Service within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that bring to life the golden era of railroading, including historic furnishings, artifacts from the coal and railway industries, and interpretive displays about Thurmond’s boomtown days. During its peak, the depot handled up to 75,000 passengers annually, and the town was a key revenue generator for the railway.
The two-story wooden structure, meticulously restored in 1995, offers a self-guided experience where you can learn about the coal barons, the town’s economic highs, and its eventual decline with the shift to diesel locomotives. The depot is typically open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day, though exact hours vary, so checking ahead is wise. Outside, you can watch active CSX and Amtrak trains rumble through, as the tracks remain in use—an exciting bonus for train enthusiasts.
2. Hike or Bike the Rend Trail
The Rend Trail is a 3.4-mile, easy-grade trail perfect for hiking or biking,
following an abandoned branch line of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Originally constructed in 1906 to haul coal from Minden’s mines to Thurmond’s main rail line, this trail offers a gentle, scenic journey through the New River Gorge. The wide, smooth path is family-friendly, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible to all skill levels.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Dunloup Creek, the New River, and glimpses of Thurmond’s historic structures. The trailhead is located just 1.3 miles from Thurmond, accessible via Route 25 from Glen Jean, and features a parking area. Highlights include passing over old railway trestles and soaking in the natural beauty of the gorge, especially vibrant in fall with colorful foliage or spring with blooming wildflowers. It’s an ideal way to connect with the area’s coal and rail heritage while enjoying outdoor recreation. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes; the trail is free to use and open year-round, weather permitting.
3. Walk Across the Thurmond Bridge and Visit Dun Glen Day-Use Area
The Thurmond Bridge, a historic railroad bridge modified with a narrow one-lane road, is your entry into town across the New River—and it’s an adventure in itself. Still supporting active train tracks alongside the road, this long, steel structure offers a thrilling walk with views of the river swirling below through its grates. It’s not just functional; it’s a piece of history, reflecting Thurmond’s rail-centric past.
Be cautious of occasional vehicle traffic, though it’s light given the town’s sparse population. Once across, head to the Dun Glen Day-Use Area, a short 0.3-mile detour to the left before the bridge (if coming from Route 25). Managed by the National Park Service, this riverside spot is perfect for picnicking, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. You can dangle your feet in the New River, cast a line (West Virginia fishing license required), or launch a small boat for a paddle. The serene setting contrasts with Thurmond’s industrial legacy, offering a peaceful retreat amid nature. It’s free to access and ideal for a low-key afternoon.
Places to Eat Near Thurmond
1. Pies & Pints
Location: 219 W Maple Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840 (approximately 6.6 miles from Thurmond)
Description: Pies & Pints is a regional favorite known for its creative, gourmet pizzas and extensive craft beer selection. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, with a rustic interior featuring wooden tables and a laid-back vibe, making it a great stop after exploring the New River Gorge. Signature offerings include the “Grape & Gorgonzola” pizza, blending sweet and savory with grapes, gorgonzola cheese, and rosemary, and the “Street Corn” pizza, inspired by Mexican elote with roasted corn and cotija cheese.
They also offer classic options like pepperoni or margherita for traditionalists. The menu extends beyond pizza to include salads, wings, and charcuterie boards. Locals and visitors alike praise the friendly service and the outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying a meal with a view of the mountain air. It’s a bustling spot, so expect a lively crowd, especially during peak tourist seasons.
2. Secret Sandwich Society
Location:103 Keller Ave, Fayetteville, WV 25840 (approximately 7 miles from
Thurmond)
Description: Secret Sandwich Society is a must-visit for sandwich lovers, offering a menu packed with inventive, hearty options named after historical figures and secret service themes.
Housed in a charming building with a cozy, eclectic interior, it features exposed brick walls and a warm ambiance. Standout sandwiches include the “Truman” (turkey with peach jam, bacon, and arugula) and the “Firecracker” (spicy fried chicken with pickles and slaw), both served on freshly baked bread. They also offer burgers, salads, and a killer pimento cheese appetizer that’s a nod to Southern comfort food. The restaurant rebuilt after a devastating fire in 2019, and its comeback has only strengthened its reputation for quality and resilience. Outdoor seating along the street adds to the experience, and the staff is known for being attentive and upbeat. It’s a spot where you’ll leave full and planning your next visit.
3. The Station
Location: 312 N Court St, Fayetteville, WV 25840 (approximately 7 miles from Thurmond)
Description: The Station is a newer addition to Fayetteville’s dining scene, offering a farm-to-table experience with a focus on Appalachian-inspired cuisine. Housed in a former gas station, the space blends industrial chic with cozy touches—think exposed beams, metal accents, and warm lighting. The menu changes seasonally but often features dishes like smoked trout with local greens, braised short ribs with root vegetables, and cornbread made from West Virginia-milled cornmeal.
They emphasize locally sourced ingredients, reflecting the region’s agricultural heritage, and pair it with a solid selection of craft cocktails and regional beers. The outdoor patio is a highlight, offering a relaxed setting to unwind after a day near Thurmond. Reviewers rave about the thoughtful flavors and the intimate, unpretentious vibe, making it a standout for those seeking a taste of Almost Heaven.
RV Parks Nearby
1. Rifrafters Campground
Location: 247 Rifrafters Campground Rd, Fayetteville, WV 25840 (approximately
11 miles from Thurmond)
Description: Rifrafters Campground is a family-run gem located just two miles south of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, making it an ideal base for exploring the national park and Thurmond’s historic sites. This campground offers a peaceful, wooded setting with a mix of modern amenities and a rustic charm that appeals to both RV campers and tent enthusiasts.
It features 30 RV sites, many with full hookups (water, electric, and sewer), accommodating rigs up to 40 feet, though some sites are better suited for smaller units due to the natural terrain. The sites are spacious and shaded by towering trees, providing a sense of privacy and a true outdoor escape.
Campers consistently praise the exceptionally clean bathhouses and showers, which are a standout feature, along with the friendly, hands-on staff who live on-site and ensure a welcoming experience. Additional amenities include a small camp store, firewood for purchase, and picnic tables at each site.
Its proximity to adventure hubs like Fayetteville (about 5 miles away) offers easy access to dining, shopping, and activities such as whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking. Reviewers on platforms like The Dyrt and RV Life highlight its quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and its convenience for exploring the New River Gorge, often rating it 4.5 stars or higher for its cleanliness and location.
2. Berrys Campground
Location: 1121 New River Rd, Hinton, WV 25951 (approximately 18 miles from Thurmond)
Description: Nestled along the banks of the New River in Gauley Bridge, this Campground offers a scenic and adventurous retreat for RV campers looking to immerse themselves in West Virginia’s natural beauty.
This campground provides around 40 RV sites, with options for full hookups (electric, water, and sewer) and more primitive setups, accommodating a range of RV sizes from small trailers to larger motorhomes (up to 45 feet, though it’s wise to call ahead for larger rigs). The sites are relatively level, with gravel pads, and many offer direct river views, creating a serene backdrop for campfires and relaxation.
The campground is known for its access to water-based activities—guests can launch kayaks or fish right from the property, and it’s a short drive to the Gauley River National Recreation Area for world-class whitewater rafting. Amenities include clean restrooms and showers, a dump station, and a boat ramp, though some campers note the proximity to Route 60 can bring occasional road noise, particularly for sites near the back row.
The owners are frequently praised for their hospitality, often going out of their way to assist with site selection or local recommendations. Reviews on Campendium and RVshare give it high marks (around 4.4-4.7 stars) for its picturesque setting, affordability, and proximity to attractions like the New River Gorge Bridge (about 20 minutes away) and Thurmond’s historic district. It’s a great spot for those seeking a balance of nature and convenience.
A Weekend in Thurmond
On a crisp October morning in 2024, Jess and Ryan, a couple from Charleston, drove to Thurmond, West Virginia, eager to explore its eery charm. Nestled in the New River Gorge, the once-thriving coal town, founded in 1900, felt frozen in time with its boarded-up buildings and silent rail tracks. They strolled past the 1921 Thurmond Depot, now a National Park Service visitor center, where Jess imagined the bustle of steam engines that once hauled coal—Thurmond generated $4.8 million in freight revenue at its peak in 1910. The couple peered into the abandoned bank, its vault still intact, and hiked a short trail along the river, the autumn leaves crunching underfoot. As the sun set, casting shadows over the eerie, empty streets—home to just five residents today—they felt a shiver, half from the chill, half from the town’s haunting stillness, before heading back, whispering about returning.
The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway by James E. Casto
The Chesapeake and Ohio Railway by James E. Casto, part of Arcadia
Publishing’s “Images of Rail” series (2006), is a 128-page visual history of the C&O Railway, blending roughly 200 black-and-white photos with a concise narrative. Written by West Virginia native and retired editor Casto, it traces the C&O’s rise from the 1860s, under Collis P. Huntington, as a coal-hauling powerhouse linking Virginia to the Ohio River, to its merger into CSX in the 1980s.
The book highlights its steam-era peak—featuring massive locomotives, luxury passenger trains like the George Washington, and key hubs like Thurmond—while showcasing its cultural icons, John Henry and Chessie the kitten. Organized thematically, it covers locomotives, stations, and operations, with evocative images of trains, workers, and depots. Casto’s nostalgic tone and personal ties add warmth, though it focuses pre-1970s, skipping modern CSX details. Ideal for railfans and history buffs, it’s praised for its stunning photos and engaging storytelling.
Final Thoughts for The Smart RVer
Thurmond, West Virginia, stands as a haunting yet captivating relic of America’s industrial past, a near-ghost town frozen in time along the banks of the New River Gorge. Once a thriving railroad hub fueled by coal and steam, its quiet streets and weathered buildings now whisper stories of a bygone era—where the clatter of locomotives and the bustle of commerce defined daily life.
Today, with a population of just five and its integration into the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Thurmond offers a poignant blend of history and solitude, drawing visitors to explore its preserved depot, abandoned structures, and scenic beauty. It’s a place that evokes both nostalgia and reverence, a testament to resilience amid decline, and a reminder of how the echoes of progress can linger in the stillness of the mountains.