About SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS
Overview Summersville Lake Shelters are conveniently located just south of Summersville, West Virginia, on the shores of the largest lake in the state. Superb water quality and sheer sandstone cliffs make Summersville Lake a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.Recreation The 2700-acre lake provides excellent boating, water skiing, swimming and scuba diving. Anglers will find large and smallmouth bass, walleye, panfish, and catfish. Trout are stocked below the dam in spring and fall. Visitors also enjoy the great hiking, biking, hunting and picnicking opportunities on the lands surrounding the lake. Whitewater rafting is available year-round on the world class Gauley River. The Summersville Lake area also offers technical rock climbing.Facilities This day-use area has four large group picnic shelters, offering an ideal retreat for parties or family functions. Amenities include flush toilets and drinking water.Natural Features Scenic Summersville Lake is known for its striking cliffs and quiet coves along 60 beautiful miles of shoreline. Dense forests of maple, oak, hickory, beech and birch trees cover the region. Wildlife, including black bear, deer, grouse and turkey, is abundant in the area. Nearby Attractions The historic Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is a 10-minute drive from the campground. The park offers a museum, three Gauley River overlooks and hiking trails. Summersville Lake Marina and Sarge's Dive Shop are 11 miles away, offering kayak and pontoon boat rentals. The town of Summersville, another five miles north, has several grocery stores, restaurants and service stations.
How to Get There
From Summersville. West Virginia, take Highway 19 south for 5 miles to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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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.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
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.
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 SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS
Heading to SUMMERSVILLE 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 SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
No central reservation system listed for SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233906) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
From Summersville. West Virginia, take Highway 19 south for 5 miles to the campground.
How do I contact SUMMERSVILLE LAKE SHELTERS?
You can reach the park at phone: 304-872-3412.
References & Official Resources
