Summersville Lake

About Summersville Lake

Picturesque Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia and was built by the US Army Corps of Engineers to protect against flooding of the Gauley and Kanawha rivers. The reservoir acts like an earth-based dam with a maximum capacity of 1.5 million cubic metres of water per year.

Summersville Lake has become a jewel of the state and offers visitors wonderful recreational opportunities. Boaters love exploring the 2790-acre Summersville Lake, and several public boat ramps are available to stack.

The Gauley River flows through picturesque gorges and valleys and contains several Class V rapids as well as some Class II, III and IV rapids. White water lovers can find adventure in the waters of the West Virginia River and its tributaries. The falling cliffs and scenic views of Mount Vernon draw visitors to Summersville Lake, a popular white water rafting and kayaking destination.

Fishing is another activity that is extremely popular at Summersville Lake, and there is a wide variety of fish species that can be caught and released on the lake. Fishermen require a West Virginia fishing license, but there are a number of other options in the area, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing or rafting.

A somewhat unusual attraction at Summersville Lake is diving, which is a unique experience in itself. Skin Divers calls the lake "a bit like the Bahamas of the East," as the steep cliffs that disappear below the surface make diving very enjoyable.

Diving enthusiasts can rent their own boat or arrange a dive organized by a local dive shop. Only tropical fish are missing, but Sunnersville divers can swim with perch, walrus, sunfish and catfish. Summersville Lake is a popular spot for photographers several times a year and one of the best places in West Virginia for outdoor photography.

Summer brings beautiful green grasses and trees that contrast with the clear water that reflects autumn. The short climb up the cliffs that rise above the lake offers a great opportunity to capture the spectacular beauty of the area. The water level of Summersville Lake is lowered by the USACE in winter and the water level is lowered to 1,652 feet above sea level, which provides an ideal location for outdoor photography in the summer months, as well as in autumn and winter.

The reservoir is an ideal vacation destination for visitors of all kinds, and fortunately Summersville Lake can fulfill so many of our vacation dreams. Visitors can enjoy all these activities both in the summer and winter months. We hope that we can all come to Summers County, West Virginia, USA, and make our own memories.