Summersville Lake offers some of the most diverse camping terrain in West Virginia, with elevations ranging from 1,650 to 2,000 feet above sea level. The 2,700-acre lake sits at the base of Gauley River National Recreation Area, creating a cool microclimate that often stays 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands during summer months. Weather patterns can change rapidly in this Appalachian region, with afternoon thunderstorms common from June through August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Summersville Lake contains largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, and channel catfish. Mountain Lake Campground and Cabins offers direct lake access. "Trails were never nicely marked and well cleared. Good size spaces and distance between each camper," mentions Ronnie B., highlighting the easily accessible shoreline fishing spots.
Rock climbing access: The sandstone cliffs surrounding Summersville Lake provide over 60 established climbing routes. Rifrafters Campground serves as a convenient base. "Known by kayakers and rock climbers," notes Paul P., adding that they also offer "rustic cabin bunkhouses that are also reasonably priced."
Trail exploration: Over 30 miles of hiking paths surround the lake area. "Nice trails to forage and nearby Gristmill to top it all off. If we'd had the time, we would've stayed an extra night," reports SkywaystoHighways.com Y. from their stay at Babcock State Park.
What campers like
Yurt camping comfort: Yurt accommodations at Summersville Lake offer solid structures with real beds and electricity. Rays Campground provides yurt options that combine tent camping freedom with cabin comforts. "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," explains Tawney.
Lake swimming access: Clear, clean waters make Summersville Lake popular for swimming from late May through September. "The lake is amazing, clear and has so many visual gems that I highly suggest a visit," writes Carissa V. about her experience at Mountain Lake Campground, though she notes some maintenance issues with facilities.
Evening entertainment: Many campgrounds host weekend activities. "Live music on weekends throughout the summer included with your stay. Also, they have some ticketed events for live music," mentions Sean R. about The Outpost at New River Gorge, which offers both camping and glamping near Summersville Lake.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly. "It rained the entire time I was there, yet I still enjoyed my stay. Campsite was clean and the other campers were quiet," notes Todd V. about his experience at Grandview Sandbar Campground.
Shower facilities vary: Campground bathroom quality differs significantly between locations. "Bathrooms are traditional but clean and functioning well," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about Little Beaver State Park, while others mention more rustic facilities at primitive sites.
Reservation timing: For yurt camping at Summersville Lake, book 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends. "We booked cabin for group of 8 people, and room was pretty good enough for all of the members," shares Pranali P. about Adventures on the Gorge, though noting the group camping areas can fill quickly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "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," shares Jessica H. about Mountain Lake.
Kid-friendly yurt camping: Yurts offer a compromise between tent camping and cabins. "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 Nick C. from Mountain Lake Campground.
Swimming safety: The lake has designated swimming areas with gradual entry points. "Our first time camping with our four year old little boy! We only stayed two nights, but we had a great time. Our camp site was right next to one of the playgrounds and that was definitely a plus! Our little boy could play while we watched from our site. The lake swimming was fun," shares Katie J.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "RV sites are not private but we had great neighbors and a great weekend. Bathhouses were very clean, firewood was delivered which made things easy. Be prepared to dry camp as there are no water hookups," advises Rachel S. about Adventures on the Gorge.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area have uneven terrain. "Most sites looked like it may take some work to get level. We were in site 20 with a 23 ft TT and got level fairly easily but a longer rig may have difficulty in that site," warns Adam and Suzanne B.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management, as sewer connections are limited. "Just a quick FYI, there is no camping in the winter. We stopped by for an overnight while enroute to Ohio... Dump site was a little different. Had to make a uturn to get in to dump," explains Charlie W. about Little Beaver State Park.