Need beta on where to camp at NRG

Going to be headed to the New on Sunday afternoon for the first time with my buddy and know nothing about the area... Anybody have any beta on where to camp? Preferably free, but cheap camping works just as well

The Summersville Dam has free camping, but it's a zoo during rafting season.

Chestnut Creek is ~$8 a night per person, and has real showers and toilets.

The AAC campground is $6-$8 a night (depending on if you have a membership) and has porta-potties and a water tank.

If you want to spend money, I think Chestnut Creek is the best deal for decent camping.

Chestnut has slightly better amenities than the AAC but I like the vibe of camping at the AAC much better. More of a friendly climbing community than at Chestnut.

If you come later on a Sunday, most people leave due to work, you should have no problem finding a spot at the free Summersville Dam Campground.
-Joe

If you are coming on Sunday and it's your first time here you should stay at the AAC. It costs money, however a lot of the local climbers live there and you will get every drop of beta for everything imaginable, climbs, food, best crags during specific weather forecasts, etc. You know...everything the MP has on it but from someone's mouth instead. The AAC host has some of the best beta around and you will more than likely see me around there as well. Please note I live in a house and only socialize with campers when conditions suck.

Chris Whisenhunt wrote:...The AAC host has some of the best beta around and you will more than likely see me around there as well.

Naw, the host is all talk.

And yeah, stay at the AAC. Even though Climbing Magazine somehow forgot to mention it in their recent destination article on the NRG.

Thanks a bunch guys! I think we'll end up staying at the AAC, hope to maybe see a few of you there

Probably dating myself a bit but...
What ever happened to Roger's? I heard something about that once great kingdom coming to an end. The land was slanted, the campers were [variably] annoying, the facilities were OK (at best), but it was worth every inconvenience just to sit around and have conversations with good ol' Roger. One of my favorite lines of his was spoken with his distinctive somewhat high-pitched voice and southern accent, "Well, big women need lovin' too."

C Travis wrote:Probably dating myself a bit but... What ever happened to Roger's? I heard something about that once great kingdom coming to an end. The land was slanted, the campers were [variably] annoying, the facilities were OK (at best), but it was worth every inconvenience just to sit around and have conversations with good ol' Roger. One of my favorite lines of his was spoken with his distinctive somewhat high-pitched voice and southern accent, "Well, big women need lovin' too."

"Roger’s Rocky Top Retreat. Yes, unfortunately it is true. Roger threw in the towel and closed down this historic campground. He endeared himself to everyone who stayed there and those days will be fondly remembered by everyone who experienced this wacky, NRG institution. Thanks for everything Roger!"
waterstoneoutdoors.com/new-…

Rogers has been closed for many years now. 6 or 7 maybe? My memory is hazy. He was getting old and fighting some health issues and had no choice but to close up shop.

Jon H wrote:Rogers has been closed for many years now. 6 or 7 maybe? My memory is hazy. He was getting old and fighting some health issues and had no choice but to close up shop.

Roger's finally closed in 2011. He had some health problems, but is doing better now that he doesn't have to deal with climbers all the time. He still hangs out, fixes small engines for the park service, and occasionally will come talk your ear off at the Kaymoor parking lot.

Gotcha, thanks for the clarification Paul!

Pnelson wrote: Roger's finally closed in 2011. He had some health problems, but is doing better now that he doesn't have to deal with climbers all the time. He still hangs out, fixes small engines for the park service, and occasionally will come talk your ear off at the Kaymoor parking lot.

Yeah, I remember the subject of health coming up a while ago (that was before 2011 though). Hope it didn't get too bad before he kicked all of us damn dirty climbers outta there. Glad to hear he's on the upswing and also really glad to hear he's still chatting away around Kaymoor. I certainly hope I get a chance to sit a spell with ol' Roger next time I'm back in the area. Thanks for the info guys!

Ray's Campground