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Summersville Lake State Park RV & Campground Guide

West Virginia

This 177-acre park is located on the northern edge of West Virginia’s largest lake, Summersville Lake, and features world-class rock climbing opportunities. The Gauley River feeds Summersville Lake and features clear blue water while being surrounded by scenic cliffs. The surrounding cliffs offer excellent rock climbing opportunities. There are currently over 350 climbing trails in place, with plans to add more during the ongoing development of the state park. While the park does not offer as many outdoor activities as a typical state park, visitors can find those adventures nearby in adjacent recreation areas.

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Weather
Spring 28 - 70 F
Summer 55 - 80 F
Fall 31 - 74 F
Winter 19 - 43 F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in Summersville Lake State Park

This park does not have any on-site RV campgrounds.

RV Rentals Near Summersville Lake State Park

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What to Do at
Summersville Lake State Park

While Summersville Lake State Park is not fully developed yet, there are still plenty of fun activities to enjoy within the park’s boundaries. Rock climbing is the most popular activity, while visitors enjoy fishing, hiking, kayaking, and swimming throughout the summer. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources plans to add more outdoor recreation opportunities in the coming months, including camping, water activities, and aerial sports.

Fishing Fishing

Anglers can expect to catch smallmouth bass, walleye, muskellunge, and catfish in Summersville Lake. A valid West Virginia fishing license is required; you can get one online before arriving.

Geocaching Geocaching

Geocaching is a family-friendly activity offered throughout West Virginia’s state parks. You can use a GPS device or your smartphone to find one. Once you do, you can sign the logbook and take a prize. However, remember to bring an item to leave for the next geocacher.

Nature Watching Nature Watching

This park is home to deer, bears, squirrels, chipmunks, grouse, and turkeys that you may spot while exploring. Birdwatchers can look forward to seeing a variety of songbirds, waterfowl, and raptors.

Hiking Hiking

There are two hiking trails within the park that total 1.2 miles. Pirates Cove Trail is the longest of the two trails at 0.7 miles and begins at the parking lot. This trail will take you to the iconic Pirates Cove area of Summersville Lake. The Climbers Trail is 0.5 miles long and begins from a point on the Pirates Cove Trail. This trail takes you through a wooded area until you reach a metal stairway leading to the park's rock climbing area.

Boating

There are no boat launches within the park itself, but the Salmon Run Boat Ramp can be found on the other side of US-19. Both motorized and human-powered boats are allowed in the lake.

Swimming Swimming

Swimming access is also located on the west side of US-19 and not within the state park. The Salmon Run public boat launch includes a designated swimming area.

Climbing Climbing

Pirates Cove, a popular climbing area just beneath the new park, draws visitors from all over the world and features 350 climbing routes. The area offers both bolted and top rope routes.

Biking

Several mountain biking trails can be found west of the state park and on either side of Summersville Lake.

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How to Get to
Summersville Lake State Park

Summersville Lake State Park is located at 62 Farmhouse Lane, Summersville, WV 26651. If you are traveling to the park from Charleston, WV, you will want to get on I-64 E until you reach exit 96 for US-60. Continue along US-60 until you reach US-19 N. Merge onto US-19 N and head towards Summersville, WV. Continue along US-19 N for 13.9 miles, then turn right onto Farmhouse Ln, and then make a quick right-hand turn onto Up Yonder Dr. There will be a parking lot right in front of you as well as the entrance to the park.

Entering Summersville Lake State Park

Once you turn off of the highway, you will enter the lone parking area for the park. The parking area includes picnic spots as well as the newly created Almost Heaven swing. To gain access to the rest of the park, you will need to set off on the Pirates Cove Trail and continue along the Climbers. Additional outdoor recreation is slated to be added to the park east of the hiking trails.

Summersville Lake State Park Entry Fee : $0.0

Frequently Asked Questions About Summersville Lake State Park

What is the best time of year to visit Summersville Lake State Park?

The summer months are the best time of the year to visit Summersville Lake State Park. The warm weather will enable you to enjoy numerous water activities on the lake as well as try your hand at the numerous rock climbing trails.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Summersville Lake State Park?

Visitors can expect to see deer, turkeys, bears, squirrels, and grouse while visiting the park. Smallmouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and walleye are common fish species in the lake.

Are there designated RV camping spots in Summersville Lake State Park?

Currently, there are no designated RV camping spots in the park. However, there are plans to add a campground in the near future.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at Summersville Lake State Park and what is the cost?

There are no campsites within the park at this time.

Are pets allowed at Summersville Lake State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed in the park. Pets must be on a leash and always under your control. You are also expected to clean up after your four-legged companions.