5 West Virginia Waterside Adventures to Try This Summer

With summer well underway in Almost Heaven, waterside adventures are ready to make a splash into your memory book. From relaxing picnics and hangouts along the shoreline to taking dives in crystal-clear waters, West Virginia is sure to cool you off.

This sunny season, invite your friends, family or venture solo to these five waterside destinations across the Mountain State.

Summersville Lake State Park

Summersville, West Virginia

Summersville is home to West Virginia’s 36th state park, which has plenty of wondrous waterside activity. The 177-acre Summersville Lake State Park in Nicholas County is located along the northern shore of the state’s largest lake. The 2,800 acres of clear water at Summersville Lake earned this destination the nickname “The Little Bahamas of the East.”

Summersville Lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, flatwater paddling, or just soaking in the view from the 60 miles of rocky shoreline. If you’re an avid swimmer, hiker or boater, one of the most unique spots to enjoy the lake is Pirates Cove – where you will see a lively waterfall.

    Stonewall Resort

    Roanoke, West Virginia

    Nestled within Stonewall Resort State Park’s 1,900 acres in Lewis County, Stonewall Resort offers an array of waterside activities. The park features Stonewall Jackson Lake, one of West Virginia’s most scenic lakes with over 82 miles of beautiful shoreline. The lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, boating and much more. Boat rentals are also available. Stonewall Resort State Park offers a variety of accommodations, including lakeside camping, a AAA Four Diamond Adirondack-style lodge and 10 lakeside cottages if you desire to extend your stay.

    While you’re in the area, make a 20-minute drive to Lambert’s Vintage Wines and sip on some upscale wine.

      Audra State Park

      Buckhannon, West Virginia

      Audra State Park is a heavily wooded area bisected by the Middle Fork River in southwestern Barbour County and a portion of Upshur County. This park is an ideal destination for those who enjoy the outdoors and are in the mood to make a few splashes. The clear, clean water of the Middle Fork River makes a great spot to cool off during the warm summer days.

        Cheat Lake

        Monongalia County, West Virginia

        In the heart of Mountaineer Country lies the majestic Cheat Lake, a 13-mile-long body of water. Have a picnic or just relax along the shoreline and enjoy the beautiful view of the lake. For all of your lake adventure needs, head to Sunset Beach Marina where you can rent ski boats, large pontoons, canoes, kayaks, skis, waterboards, tubes and stand-up paddle boards.

          Tygart Lake State Park

          Grafton, West Virginia

          Tygart Lake State Park is a favorite destination for water recreation and relaxation in Mountaineer Country. This lake stretches 11 miles and offers boating, swimming, fishing and scuba diving. 11 vacation cabins, a 20-room lodge and 40 campsites (14 with electric, 16 for smaller RVs) will easily transform your quick waterside trip into a weekend getaway if you desire to spend a little more time here.

            Don’t let your waterside adventures end here! You will find even more inspiration with the help of our free West Virginia Vacation Guide.

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            The Wild, Wonderful Waters of #AlmostHeaven

            This post was last updated on July 16, 2024