-Published in The Charleston Gazette

West Virginia's New River Gorge National River was listed among the nation's Top 12 national parks by Outdoor Life magazine in its June-July issue.

Outdoor Life divided their Top 12 list into four categories - overlooked gems, high adventure, solitude-friendly and family-oriented. New River Gorge topped the overlooked gems category.

"There's a national park located within easy driving distance of everyone in the country," said Todd Smith, Outdoor Life's editor-in-chief. "The 12 on our list are real standouts, but with parks located in every state but Delaware, there are plenty of outdoor escapes within easy driving distance of everyone."

"Each of the parks on our list is truly a special experience," said Smith. "Each site echoes the surrounding region's geological and cultural evolution, while providing visitors with opportunities ranging from bold and daring to leisurely and relaxing."