Located in Nicholas County and covering over 2,700 acres, Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia. The lake was created in the early 1960's as a form of flood control along this stretch of the Gauley River. The dam itself is the second largest rock-fill dam in the eastern United States and recently saw completed a hydroelectric power plant project that will utilize the dam outflow to harness upto 80 megawatts of power.
Recreational opportunities abound at Summersville Lake. You can launch your own boat, kayak or canoe or rent one there. Try your hand at catching some of the bass, walleye, catfish or maybe another of the game fish that flourish in the lake. You're definitely going to want to swim and grab an epic selfie jumping off those rocks!! If you love the water, try snorkeling or scuba diving. The lake reaches 327 feet at its deepest and has natural cliffs that extend upto 100 feet below the water with caves, overhangs and other amazing sights. Combine that with the natural clean water, and you have one of the coolest places to explore below the surface! Check out Sarge's Dive Shop. They offer boat, kayak, and paddle board and gear rentals. As well as, classes, charters, tours and dinner cruises.
As below so above!? Jutting up out from the surface of the water, are towering rock faces that are perfect for rock climbing. Some are just right for diving or jumping into the deep! Appalachian Mountain Guides offer guided climbing, pontoon and SUP rentals! They also offer climbing and other courses/ classes.
Summersville Lake is also home to West Virginia's only working lighthouse! Summersville Lake Retreat offers lighthouse tours, boat rentals, including kayak, canoe and SUPs. They also have cabins available to rent.
There are many cabins, hotels and lodges available locally. I would love to help you find the perfect place for your escape! There are also many local camping spots including those at local State Parks, like Babcock State Park.
There are so many great things to do in this area of WV. Rafting the Gauley, checking out the New River Gorge and Bridge, rafting the New, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield, Hawks Nest and so so much more!! I'd love to help you plan out an itinerary so you hit all the good spots! Or be sure to follow the blog for updates on more destinations!!
There are some seriously tasty, locally owned, places you'll want to check out as well! Here are a few!
Be sure to add Summersville Lake to your #travelbucketlist.
Also, be sure to follow the blog and all social media for Mountain State Travel as I will be updating with other destination highlights!
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