Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia formed as a result of building Summersville Dam in 1968 on the Gauley River. It has 2,700 acres of clean and clear water with more than 60 miles of shoreline and is over 300 feet deep at full summer water level. It serves as a recreation area for fishing, boating, rock climbing, snorkeling and scuba diving. Summersville Lake is the cleanest, clearest freshwater lake east of the Mississippi River according to “Skin Diver Magazine!” It is known as, “The Little Bahamas of the East” because of its water clarity and great diving.
Battle Run Recreation area is the closest place to get into the water from our location and has a public boat launch, kayak boat launch, a public swim beach and lots of parking. They charge $5 for daily parking. Salmon Run boat launch is closer to the town of Summersville and offers an alternative place to launch your boat. They also charge $5 for parking for the day. Pirates Cove is a popular place to hang out on the water. While it is easy to access by boat or kayak from Salmon Run you can also park and hike back to the site. It does require a little scrambling and use of some ropes or cliff jumping to get to the water.
The Long Point Trailhead is a popular hike to one of the most scenic areas of the lake.
We can help you get on the water and find the good spots! We are equipped to help you rent one of our 10 person Pontoon boats, solo or tandem kayaks, canoes, or stand up paddleboards!
Distance to Popular Attractions:
7 minutes / 4 miles from Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse to the public beach, boat launch, and kayak dock at Battle Run Recreation area
7 minutes / 4.1 miles from Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse to the Pirates Cove parking area
10 minutes / 6.1 miles from Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse to the Salmon Run boat launch
11 minutes / 5.7 miles from Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse to the Long Point Trailhead
12 minutes / 7.4 miles from Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse to the Summersville Marina