Summit Lake Campground

Anglers and hikers find multiple recreation opportunities at Summit Lake Campground, a US Forest Service facility operating from April through November in the Monongahela National Forest. The campground accommodates RVs up to 94 feet and offers drive-in, walk-in, and hike-in access at $10 per night.

The facility provides vault toilets, drinking water, and trash service across spacious sites that reviewers consistently describe as well-maintained and clean. Walking trails connect campers to Summit Lake, where fishing opportunities abound alongside river access points. Camp With Me notes the campground "wasn't busy" during their visit, with "well maintained" sites. Upper elevation sites receive faint AT&T cell service, though coverage varies throughout the campground.

Road conditions require attention, particularly for larger rigs navigating soft shoulders during backing maneuvers. The campground experiences higher activity during holidays and peak summer periods, when generator use and pet noise can increase. Waterfalls and bike trails provide additional recreation beyond the primary lake and river fishing access.

Summit Lake Campground works well for campers seeking forest service camping with lake access and moderate amenities, though those requiring strong cell coverage or guaranteed solitude during peak periods should plan accordingly.

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RV Road Trip Guides

Location

Public Campground

Summit Lake Campground is located in West Virginia

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Richwood, WV, take US Rt. 39/55 for 6.3 miles to the Summit Lake campground sign. Turn left onto County Rt. 39/5 and go 2.2 miles to campground.

Coordinates

38.24900054 N
80.4450004 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/2/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 4/2/26
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 4 users
    Last on 4/2/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets

Drive Time


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Campers regularly cited clean facilities and beautiful lake access with fishing and trails. Noise levels depend on season, with peak times bringing generators and dogs but quieter periods offering peaceful stays.

Reviewed Jan. 10, 2026

Mountain Campground with a lake

Summit Lake Campground is a quiet, clean campground in the Monongahela National Forest. I stayed one night and really enjoyed the fishing on the lake. The campground wasn’t busy, the sites were well maintained, and it was a relaxing place to spend the night surrounded by nature. 

Check out the 360° Drive through showing all the sites.

https://youtu.be/GxE0sj5xZ98

Site10
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Camp With Me , January 10, 2026
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Camp With Me , January 10, 2026
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Camp With Me , January 10, 2026
  • (11) View All
Reviewed Jul. 13, 2021

Not bad

Great Campground, for tent campers there are vaulted toilets that are normally clean! We have returned here year after year. The upper sites you can get a faint ATT signal. The only downside is that during peak times( holidays etc) there were a bunch of sites with generators running all night and yappy dogs LOL! Other than that we love it here!

Site12
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Jim P., July 13, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Jim P., July 13, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Jim P., July 13, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Apr. 29, 2021

Spring fishing trip

Our first trip to this area and we weren't disappointed. Wonderful country and scenery. Great campgrounds, spacious, bit aa bit tight to back into with soft shoulders to the road. Clean bathrooms and trash cans are plentiful. Walking trails to the lake and what a lake! We shall return at some point when it doesn't snow between 80 degree weeks.

Site32
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Fred R., April 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Fred R., April 29, 2021
  • Review photo of Summit Lake Campground by Fred R., April 29, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Jul. 16, 2018

Kid and family friendly

Multiple areas to fish including lake and river. Beautiful waterfalls and access via bike trails. Restrooms available.

Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there photos of Summit Lake Campground I can view before my trip?

You can view photos of Summit Lake Campground on The Dyrt's website, which showcases the campground's scenic surroundings, lake views, and campsites. The images help visualize the spacious sites, surrounding trails, and beautiful lake that campers frequently praise. Official photos are also available on the Monongahela National Forest website. These visual resources can help you plan your layout and choose the best site for your camping style before arriving.

What amenities and facilities are available at Summit Lake Campground in West Virginia?

Summit Lake Campground offers clean restrooms with vault toilets that are regularly maintained. The campground provides spacious campsites with trash cans conveniently placed throughout the area. There are multiple recreational opportunities including fishing access to both the lake and nearby river, beautiful hiking trails, and walking paths that lead directly to Summit Lake. The campground accommodates both tent camping and RVs, though some sites have soft shoulders that can make backing in slightly challenging. Some campers note the occasional use of generators, particularly during peak holiday periods.

How much does it cost to camp at Summit Lake Campground?

Summit Lake Campground offers affordable camping options in the Monongahela National Forest. While specific pricing isn't detailed, standard fees for National Forest campgrounds in this region typically range from $10-20 per night for standard sites. Contact the Monongahela National Forest office or check their website for current rates, reservation requirements, and any seasonal fee adjustments before your trip.

What do visitors say about Summit Lake Campground in their reviews?

Campers consistently praise Summit Lake Campground for its beautiful scenery, spacious sites, and clean facilities. The campground earns high marks for its peaceful, quiet atmosphere - though some note generator noise during peak holidays. Visitors highlight the multiple fishing opportunities at both the lake and river, along with the scenic walking trails and spectacular lake views. The campground is described as having clean bathrooms and well-maintained grounds. Many express a desire to return, with some campers making it an annual tradition. Those seeking cell service should note that only a faint AT&T signal is available at some upper campsites.

Where is Summit Lake Campground located in Richwood, West Virginia?

Summit Lake Campground is located in the Monongahela National Forest near Richwood, West Virginia. The campground sits adjacent to Summit Lake, offering direct access to the water through walking trails. The area features beautiful country landscapes, scenic forest surroundings, and includes access to both the lake and a nearby river. The natural setting includes waterfalls in the vicinity and connects to bike trails. While remote enough to offer peace and quiet, the campground is accessible by road, though some sites have soft shoulders that require careful navigation when backing in.