Watersports
Lakes, rivers, streams and more. West Virginia is rich in public waterways, perfect for outdoor recreation. Whether you are looking to learn a new sport like stand-up paddleboarding or want to take the family on a leisurely boat ride, there’s something for everyone in West Virginia’s waters. Grab your kayak, canoe, board or paddle and discover the watersports that await you in Almost Heaven.Are you dreaming of days spent on the lake or longing for the excitement of a whitewater rafting trip? In Almost Heaven, those dreams can quickly become your reality. With an abundance of lakes, rivers, streams and more, West Virginia can treat you to the perfect day on the water. Not sure where to start? Look no further.
Explore Serene Lakes
SUMMERSVILLE LAKE
Summersville Lake, the state’s largest, boasts 2,700 acres of water and 65 miles of shoreline. With so much room to roam and explore, Summersville Lake is an ideal location for leisurely boat rides, swimming spots and even scuba diving. Not to mention, this lake is one of West Virginia’s most picturesque locations. Navigate crystal clear water amidst one-of-a-kind Almost Heaven landscapes.
STONEWALL JACKSON LAKE
At Stonewall Jackson Lake, 2,650 acres are yours to explore, and with five public boat ramps around the lake, adventuring is made easy. Navigate this expansive lake by swimming, boating, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. You can also swing by the Marina at Stonewall Resort State Park and check out their CraigCats, exhilarating mini boats that sit up to two people. In the end, no matter your mode of transportation, the water plays no favorites— you’re going to have some of the best lake days of your life.
BEECH FORK LAKE
Spanning over 720 acres, Beech Fork Lake is perfect for those looking for summer days spent on the lake. Bring your own boat, or stop by the lake’s marina, where you can rent pontoon boats, bass boats, fishing boats, canoes and kayaks. Take your pick and hit the water to make summer memories you won’t soon forget. After a day on the water, extend your trip with an overnight state in one of the Beech Fork State Park’s beautiful cabins or pitch a tent and sleep underneath a starry sky.
LAKE STEPHENS
With over 2,300 acres to be explored, Lake Stephens is a peaceful retreat. Perfect for boating, fishing and swimming this lush waterway makes for summer days of fun. Lake Stephens is encased by 1,900 acres of hardwood forest which also provide opportunities for camping and more exploration. Bring your little ones to the splash pad and stop by the marina to grab your lake day essentials.
JENNINGS RANDOLPH LAKE
Home to over 4,500 acres of land and water, Jennings Randolph Lake is a must-visit for any lake-lover. This adventure locale crosses state lines, in both Maryland and Mineral County, West Virginia. The opportunities for fun are limitless at Jennings Randolph Lake with camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, water skiing, kayaking, eagle watching and hunting all available.
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Discover Rushing Rivers
NEW RIVER & GAULEY RIVER
Winding through these Appalachian Mountains and forging their own paths, the New River and Gauley River boast sheer adventure and breathtaking beauty. Explorers from near and far trek to these rivers to enjoy distinctive whitewater rapids and rushing waters, and you can too. During the summer months, the New and Gauley Rivers are the perfect place to beat the heat and get your fair share of adrenaline.
Explore New River Gorge National Park
CHEAT RIVER WATER TRAIL
Known as Northern West Virginia’s Aquatic Playground this watersport haven is a must-visit for anyone who finds themselves near Mountaineer Country. Being one of the nation’s longest free-flowing rivers, the Cheat River is packed with whitewater runs, trout fishing and more. If you are looking for a day of paddling, choose from one of nine access points to hit the water. Depending on the speed of adventure you are looking for, exploring the different sections of the river within this trail system is a must—as the water ranges from a calm flow to roaring whitewater in some areas.
COAL RIVER
If you’re looking to have a leisurely day on the river with friends, the Coal River is the perfect place for you. This north-flowing tributary meanders through mountains, green forests and natural rock formations towards St. Albans, where it meets the Kanawha River. Stretching from Whitesville to St. Albans, the Coal River Walhonde Water Trail covers 88 miles, broken into distinct 6-12 mile sections (the distance most paddlers can complete in a day). The trail is easily accessible, with 17 launches that are entirely free and open to the public.
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Start Planning With A Local Outfitter
LAKE OUTFITTERS
- Summersville Lake Marina – If you plan to splash around Summersville Lake this summer, make a stop by the Summersville Lake Marina. Here, you can rent a pontoon or boat to explore “The Little Bahamas of the East” — another name for the beloved Summersville Lake. While you’re at this full-service marina, go ahead and stock up on ice, food, overnight slips and fuel.
- Sarge’s Dive Shop – If you want to dive a bit deeper, take a trip over to Sarge’s Dive Shop. This facility provides air, rental gear, scuba sales and repair services— all the things you need to safely navigate the 300-foot depth of this lake. This summer, embark on one of their swimming, snorkeling or diving charters for an adventure like no other.
- Summersville Lake Retreat – Explore the ins and outs of all that Summersville Lake has to offer by renting a pontoon boat from Summersville Lake Retreat and Lighthouse. After a full day of exploration, extend your stay in Summersville by camping on the property or cozying up in one of their fully equipped cabins.
- Marina at Stonewall Resort State Park – With a boat launch, marina shop, gasoline sales and various boat slips, the Marina at Stonewall Resort State Park is your one-stop shop for exploring Stonewall Jackson Lake. Venture out onto the water with one of their pontoon boats or CraigCats for a fun-filled day with friends. What’s more, you can even get a boxed lunch to go.
- Stonewall Resort State Park’s Recreation Center – If you want to explore the lake at your own pace, Stonewall Resort State Park offers kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards for overnight guests and day visitors alike. Kayak half the day away and paddleboard the other. At Stonewall Jackson Lake, it’s all up to you.
- Beech Fork Lake Marina – Retreating to Beech Fork Lake for a peaceful day on the water is made easy when you stop by Beech Fork Lake Marina. Here, you can rent pontoon boats, kayaks or canoes for up to 8 hours— ample time to soak in the beauty and serenity of Almost Heaven’s surreal scenery.
River Outfitters
- Adventures on the Gorge Resort – With unbelievable beauty around you and the rushing rapids before you, a whitewater rafting trip with Adventures on the Gorge Resort will offer an explanation as to why the New River and Gauley Rivers are world-famous. Spend a day— or two— exploring the ins and outs of these rivers with AOTG.
- ACE Adventure Resort – Nestled in the heart of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, ACE Adventure Resort provides direct access to the New — as the locals call it. Embark on one of their whitewater rafting excursions on the Upper or Lower New River to experience pure exhilaration. If you’re a seasoned river runner, you can also take a kayak through the towering rapids. Either way, lifelong memories await you at New River and Gauley River.
- River Expeditions – Whether you’d like to embark on an exhilarating ride or take a leisurely float, River Expeditions has just what you need for a perfect day on the water. With plenty of options for beginners and experienced rafters alike, the New and Gauley Rivers are for everyone who wants to experience the adventure of a lifetime.
- Cantrell Ultimate Rafting – Explore all the Upper and Lower New River and Gauley River have to offer with Cantrell Ultimate Rafting. Whether you’re looking to get your feet wet or you’re an experienced paddler, you’ll find a rafting trip suited for you. So, grab a lifejacket, paddle and helmet for the ride of a lifetime.
- Coal River Kayak and Canoe Rental – A relaxing canoe trip or kayaking excursion on the river comes easy when you make a stop at Coal River Kayak and Canoe Rental. Hit the water by kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard, and on the way, take a quick swim. Memories of a lifetime with family and friends await you on the Coal River.
- Big Earl’s Campground – Located on the Coal River, Big Earl’s Campground offers its guests direct access to both the excitement and beauty of a day spent on the water. While staying in one of its cabins, you can rent a kayak or rafts that sit one, two or four people. Float the day away and cozy up at the campground by night.
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