Summersville Lake
Swimming, boating, paddleboarding and cliff-lined coves on the state’s largest lake.
Nicholas County · Gauley River Country
Things to Do in Summersville WV
Home to West Virginia’s largest lake and the thundering Gauley River, Summersville is a water-lover’s paradise with Civil War history and the New River Gorge close at hand. Here is how to make the most of it.
Quick Info
- County
- Nicholas County
- Best For
- Boating, fishing, rafting, lakeside camping
- Best Time to Visit
- May through September; Gauley Season in fall
- Time Needed
- 1–2 days
- Getting There
- On US-19 between Beckley and Clarksburg, about 1 hour from Charleston.
West Virginia’s Lake Country
Summersville grew up around the Gauley River and now centers on the lake created by the Summersville Dam. With more than 2,700 acres of clear water and 60 miles of shoreline, it is the largest lake in West Virginia and a magnet for boaters, swimmers and anglers.
The Gauley River below the dam is legendary among paddlers. Each fall, scheduled dam releases create Gauley Season, drawing expert rafters and kayakers from around the world.
Between the water and the nearby New River Gorge, Summersville offers an unbeatable mix of recreation and scenery.
Best Things to Do
Top Summersville Experiences
Gauley River Rafting
World-class whitewater, especially during the fall Gauley Season releases.
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield
A Civil War battlefield overlooking the Gauley, with trails and picnic areas.
Gauley Bridge
A historic river town and the gateway to the Gauley River’s dramatic gorge.
Summersville Lake Overlook
A short trail above the dam reveals sweeping views across the water.
Long Point Trail
A favorite hike to a lakeside promontory with wide water views.
Kirkwood Winery
A nearby winery offering tastings and a taste of local Appalachian flavor.
Downtown Summersville
Local shops and restaurants along the courthouse square and main street.
Top Attractions
- Summersville Lake — West Virginia’s largest lake.
- Gauley River National Recreation Area — whitewater and gorge scenery.
- Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park — Civil War history on the rim.
- Summersville Dam Overlook — panoramic lake views.
- Gauley Bridge — historic river crossing and gorge access.
- Nicholas County Courthouse — the historic heart of town.
Outdoor Activities
Boating & Paddleboarding
Marinas, boat ramps and calm coves make the lake ideal for all kinds of craft.
Fishing
The lake is known for trophy walleye, bass, crappie and catfish.
Whitewater Rafting
The Gauley’s fall releases deliver some of the most intense rafting in the East.
Hiking
Rim trails at Carnifex Ferry and the lake overlook suit short and long walks alike.
Scuba Diving
Clear water and submerged features have made the lake a regional dive spot.
Camping
Lakeside campgrounds and the battlefield park offer tent and RV sites.
Historic Attractions
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park preserves the site of an 1861 Civil War engagement that helped secure western Virginia for the Union.
The nearby Gauley Bridge area and the old Gauley Bridge Cemetery hold deep railroad and Civil War history tied to the gorge.
In Summersville, the Nicholas County Courthouse and downtown historic blocks recall the town’s 19th-century roots.
Restaurants
Local Homestyle Diners
Comfort food and breakfast plates along US-19.
Pizza & Italian
Family-run pizzerias and pasta spots around town.
Seafood & Steak
Hearty dinner houses for a night after the lake.
Barbecue
Smoked meats and Southern sides at casual roadside joints.
Coffee & Bakeries
Grab pastries and caffeine before a day on the water.
Lake-Area Grills
Casual marina-side options for post-boating meals.
Places to Stay
- Summersville Lake vacation cabins — private rentals with water access.
- Sleep Inn & Suites and Microtel — convenient chain lodging in town.
- Best Western Summersville Lake — a reliable, well-located option.
- Carnifex Ferry campground — tent and RV sites on the battlefield grounds.
- New River Gorge lodges — a base for combining lake and gorge adventures.
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
- Gauley Bridge — about 20 minutes.
- Babcock State Park — about 25 minutes.
- Hawks Nest State Park — about 25 minutes.
- Fayetteville — about 35 minutes.
- New River Gorge Bridge — about 35 minutes.
- Charleston WV — about 1 hour.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is prime time for the lake, with warm water and long days for boating and swimming. September and October bring Gauley Season rafting and brilliant fall color.
Spring offers quiet trails and fishing, while winter is peaceful and scenic for drives and overlooks.
Suggested One-Day Itinerary
- Morning: hike the Summersville Lake overlook trail and walk the dam area.
- Late morning: rent a kayak or pontoon for a few hours on the water.
- Lunch: a lakeside or downtown bite.
- Afternoon: visit Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park and its overlook.
- Evening: drive to Gauley Bridge for sunset over the gorge.
Suggested Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: a full day on Summersville Lake, followed by dinner in town and a sunset at the dam overlook.
Day 2: morning at Carnifex Ferry, an afternoon rafting the Gauley or exploring Babcock State Park, and a stop at the New River Gorge Bridge on the way home.
Summersville on the Map
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Summersville WV known for?
Summersville Lake, the largest in West Virginia, and the world-class Gauley River whitewater.
Can you swim in Summersville Lake?
Yes. There are designated swimming areas and the water is notably clear for a mountain lake.
What is Gauley Season?
Scheduled fall dam releases that create some of the most challenging commercial whitewater in the world.
Is there camping near Summersville Lake?
Yes, including campgrounds at Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park and private sites around the lake.
What is the best time to visit Summersville?
Summer for the lake, or late September and October for Gauley Season and fall color.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel publication covering West Virginia’s destinations, outdoor adventures, history and food. Our Summersville guide is written to help you plan a great lake-country getaway.
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