Summersville Lake camping offers diverse options within the New River Gorge region at elevations between 1,500-2,500 feet. Sites around the 2,700-acre lake range from primitive forest clearings to full-service campgrounds with electric hookups. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day and drop to 55-65°F at night, creating comfortable camping conditions even during peak season.
What to do
Cliff jumping and swimming spots: Several sites around Summersville Lake have designated areas for cliff jumping, with proper precautions needed. "Cliffs line much of the lake, which lends itself to daredevils plunging off into the water..but know what lies below. Because this is a man-made lake, they flooded it over the existing wooded areas…so when water levels are low, you could be impaling yourself. Locals know the best spots," notes a visitor to Battle Run.
Frisbee golf: Some campgrounds offer on-site recreation options beyond water activities. "They have a Frisbee/Disc Golf Course... Close to rivers, climbing and hiking activities," according to a review from Chestnut Creek Campground.
Visit local caves: Explore geological features near camping areas. "There is a gave located right above the campsites that's beautiful to view from outside! Unknown safety on air quality or safety do not prefer going in," shares a camper at Gauley Tailwaters Campground.
What campers like
Spacious tent areas: Tent campers appreciate sites that offer privacy and room to spread out. "The tent area I stay in is very spacious and often you cant see any neighbors unless traveling to the shower house, with regular toilets electric and more. If you need amenities like a shower but like a private, primitive, woodsy feel this is the place," explains a visitor to Rays Campground.
Multiple playground options: Families appreciate campgrounds with recreation options for children. "Sites are big, easily accessible, clean, and not too close to your neighbors. Decent showerhouses with hot water! Cute little store with ice cream, firewood, ice, knick knacks, and a few grocery items. Weekend activities for the kids, putt putt, a pool, several swingset/play areas," notes a camper at Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins.
Free camping with amenities: Budget-conscious campers can find free options with basic facilities. "Whenever we go and rock climb at New River Gorge on a budget, we stay at this free site. They have CLEAN bathrooms, water hookups, showers, tables, fire rings, and grills," reports a visitor about Gauley Tailwaters Campground.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Cell coverage varies widely between campgrounds and carriers. "I have Verizon and had 4 bars cellular signal and was showing LTE but it was incredibly slow if it worked at all," shares a visitor to New River Campground.
Camp store limitations: Supplies at campground stores can be limited. "The camp store was a bit of a letdown, a lot of knic knacks, and not many actual camping supplies," notes a Mountain Lake Campground visitor.
Seasonal shower availability: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. "Open Year Round and Showerhouse Open April thru October," states the information for Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse.
Tips for camping with families
Lighthouse access: Unique features provide additional activities for children. "The lighthouse who's moved here by the last owners and designed interiorly by local students... there is a password-controlled area," explains a visitor to Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse.
Site selection for playground access: Select sites based on proximity to play areas. "We took site 269 for the proximity to one of the little playgrounds and easy walk to bathrooms. We had a great time and it was easy to let our 3 year old play while we setup," recommends a Mountain Lake Campground camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy observing local wildlife at certain campgrounds. "Lots of deer, we even saw a mother with 2 fawn! They had a mini golf course, a small pool, a jumping pad, and an ice cream shop in the general store," shares a Mountain Lake camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited sewer hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric and water but lack sewer connections. "No sewer hook up in the rv/trailer sides just water and electric. I felt as though if you stayed for more than a week they should offer a free one time honey wagon service," notes a camper at Mountain Lake Campground.
Uneven sites: Be prepared for leveling challenges at some campgrounds. "Most sites are not level at all," warns a visitor to Mountain Lake Campground.
Electric power reliability: Power limitations can affect comfort during summer months. "A/C power was an issue. 1 camper had 30 amp breaker blow 2 days in a row and my 50 amp ran A.C. units fan but didn't cool all day," shares another Mountain Lake Campground visitor.
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