About BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS
Overview Burnsville Lake Shelters create a wonderful setting for daytime gatherings on Burnsville Lake. The six group picnic shelters are scattered across two ends of the lake. Shelters 1-4 are near the dam while shelters 5 and 6 are upstream near the inflow from the Little Kanawha River.Recreation The primary pastime at the picnic shelters, naturally, is picnicking. Activities like biking, hiking and fishing are also quite popular.Facilities The shelters are equipped with drinking water and a large charcoal grill; shelters 3 and 5 have electricity. All shelters are close to playgrounds and flush toilets. Groups with young children may prefer shelters 2, 3, 4 and 5, as they are nearest to playground facilities. Natural Features The reservoir was built in 1978 for flood control. Its beautiful setting between the Allegheny Mountains and Allegheny Plateau create a lush backdrop of steep hills. Nearby Attractions Take a trip back in time at the Bulltown Historical Village to get a taste of life during the Civil War era. The village and visitor center is nearest to shelters 5 and 6.
How to Get There
To reach Picnic Shelters 1-4: From Clarksburg, drive south on I-79 to Exit 79 (Burnsville). Turn left and proceed through town until you reach a junction. Turn right onto Route 5 East. Follow approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right and enter the downstream area. For Shelter 1: Turn right and enter the downstream area; shelter is next to the restroom. For Shelter 2: Turn right and enter the downstream area; shelter is next to the playground and ball field directly below the dam. For Shelters 3-4: Turn left into the Left Fork area adjacent the boat ramp. To reach Picnic Shelters 5-6: From Clarksburg, drive south on I-79. Take Exit 67 (Flatwoods). Turn left at the stop light and proceed north on Route 19. Follow for 10 miles. Shelters will be on the left, adjacent to the Confederate Overlook.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
- ☔
Rain jacket / shell
52% chance of precipitation in the forecast.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 7)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
- 🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS
Heading to BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
No central reservation system listed for BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234232) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
To reach Picnic Shelters 1-4: From Clarksburg, drive south on I-79 to Exit 79 (Burnsville). Turn left and proceed through town until you reach a junction. Turn right onto Route 5 East. Follow approximately 2.5 miles. Turn right and enter the downstream area. For Shelter 1: Turn right and enter the downstream area; shelter is next to the restroom. For Shelter 2: Turn right and enter the downstream …
How do I contact BURNSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
You can reach the park at phone: (304) 853-2371.
References & Official Resources
