Since 2002, the annual New River Birding & Nature Festival takes place in and around the New River Gorge National River in the heart of the upland, hardwood forests that Cornell Lab of Ornithology identified as a crucial stopover habitat for the continued survival of species such as Golden-winged, Blue-winged, and Swainson's Warbler, as well as the Scarlet Tanager. This bird and nature watching festival highlights more than 100 bird species on a variety of birding tours.

A friendly birding vacation for everyone, the week long event features guided birding and nature excursions, world-class speakers, the finest collection of guides, tasty food, and a back-porch atmosphere unmatched by any other birding festival. Signature guided bird watching experiences include the opportunity to visit a wide range of habitats, world class instruction for those wanting to enhance their birding skills, and the best guide-to-guest ratio on the festival circuit. All skill levels are welcome.

Options range from weeklong with cabin accommodations to a single day without lodging. With such a range of options we are able to offer packages to suite a variety of budgets, beginning at $225. Each day offers a fascinating field trip of your choice, three great meals, two knowledge and fun packed presentations, world-class experts and fellow participants you will call friends!

As a non-profit fundraising event, the Festival is the major funding source for the local 501C3 Fayette County Education Fund, Inc providing student environmental and leadership training programs.