Gateway Town

Prince

Gateway Town

Tiny pass-through with Amtrak access. No lodging—day-trip from larger towns.

Quick facts

Town Type
Local Haunt
Population
115
Best Known For
Amtrak station
About This Town
Prince is a 115-person census-designated place with an unexpected Amtrak stop—unusual for such a small hamlet. It functions as a pass-through rail access point rather than a visitor destination. No lodging or significant services; explore the park itself, not the town.

Town overview

Town Type
Local Haunt
Population
115
Best Known For
Amtrak station
About This Town
Prince is a 115-person census-designated place with an unexpected Amtrak stop—unusual for such a small hamlet. It functions as a pass-through rail access point rather than a visitor destination. No lodging or significant services; explore the park itself, not the town.
What Makes It Special
Amtrak rail stop serving one of West Virginia's tiniest hamlets.

Park access

Distance From Park
4.9 km west

Visitor services

Banks Atms
0
Laundry Facilities
0

Planning advice

The Vibe
Working village passing through, not a tourist draw. Minimal services and no lodging—stay elsewhere. Come for Amtrak access or quick transit to the park; don't linger.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Any lodging in Prince?

Nope. 115 people total. Stay elsewhere; it's a pass-through.

There's an Amtrak station here?

Yeah, one of the smallest in the state. Useful for rail access, that's it.

How far to the park?

4.9 km west—quick drive, no hassle.

Can I grab food and gas?

Not really. Very limited. Fill your tank and buy snacks before you get there.

What's actually in Prince?

Not much—Amtrak platform and a handful of residents. Come for the park, not the town.

Is it walkable?

No. Scattered hamlet, no sidewalks, nothing to walk to.

Beckley

19 km from the park. Gas here. Food here. Rooms everywhere. Beckley's your pit stop for New River Gorge.

Mount Hope

Grab a meal here before heading to New River Gorge—no hotels, but solid local dining.

Oak Hill

Working town, 17 miles from the gorge—one hotel and modest dining. Practical base without the resort markup.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.