Summersville West VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Summersville, West Virginia.
1. Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR SITE
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is an important 156-acre Civil War battle site set on the rim of the Gauley River Canyon. The park commemorates a key Civil War battle fought in 1861 that played a pivotal role in West Virginia's statehood. Visitors can explore this historic site which is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, linking more than 300 locations significant to the nation's Civil War history.
2. Summersville Lake State Park
WEST VIRGINIA'S NEWEST PARK
Summersville Lake State Park is West Virginia's first new state park added in more than 30 years, sitting on 177 acres of pristine land. The park offers access to Summersville Lake, which features over 2,800 acres of water and 60 miles of shoreline, making it West Virginia's largest lake. Nicknamed the 'Little Bahamas of the East,' this destination was ranked by Vogue as one of the best lakes in the United States.
3. Summersville Dam
ENGINEERING MARVEL
Summersville Dam stands as an impressive engineering structure controlling the flow of water from Summersville Lake. The dam creates scheduled whitewater releases on the world-class Gauley River in September and October, drawing adventure enthusiasts from around the country. Trout are stocked below the dam in spring and fall, making it a popular fishing spot throughout the year.
4. Kirkwood Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Kirkwood Winery has been producing some of West Virginia's finest wines for nearly 30 years, with new ownership since July 2017. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards, winery, and distillery to learn about the wine-making process and sample local varieties. The winery continues to produce excellent wines while also distilling small batches of moonshine and bourbon for a complete taste of West Virginia's spirits.
5. Isaiah Morgan Distillery
AUTHENTIC MOUNTAIN SPIRITS
Isaiah Morgan Distillery produces West Virginia's only made and produced bourbon whiskey, offering visitors a unique taste of local mountain spirits. The distillery provides tours where guests can learn about the distillation process and the history of moonshine in the Appalachian region. Visitors can sample various spirits including bourbon, moonshine, and other specialty liquors crafted with local ingredients and traditional methods.
6. Gad Dam Brewing
CRAFT BEER HAVEN
Gad Dam Brewing offers craft beer enthusiasts a taste of locally-brewed beverages in Summersville. The brewery provides a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can sample a variety of handcrafted beers made with quality ingredients. With its playful name referencing the nearby Summersville Dam, this establishment has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.
7. Summersville Arena & Conference Center
ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS HUB
The Summersville Arena and Conference Center is a 73,000 square foot multi-use facility nestled in the mountains of scenic Summersville. This state-of-the-art venue brings great entertainment and events to the area, drawing visitors from across the region. The center is centrally located in West Virginia, making it a convenient destination that's a short and pleasant drive from most major interstates.
8. Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park
HONORING LOCAL HEROES
Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park pays tribute to the brave men and women from the area who served in the armed forces. The park provides a peaceful setting for reflection and remembrance with monuments and displays honoring veterans from various conflicts. Visitors can learn about local military history while enjoying the serene surroundings of this respectful memorial space.
9. Summersville Lake Lighthouse
UNIQUE MOUNTAINTOP BEACON
The Summersville Lake Lighthouse offers an unexpected maritime landmark in landlocked West Virginia, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors who climb the 122 steps to the top are rewarded with an uninterrupted 360-degree view of Summersville Lake and the Gauley River National Recreation Area. This towering structure stands as one of the area's most unique attractions, offering photographers and nature lovers a perfect vantage point.
10. Sarge's Dive Shop
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE CENTER
Sarge's Dive Shop is the perfect starting point for underwater explorations of Summersville Lake, offering equipment rentals and guided experiences. Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and paddle boarding, or even join lake tours and diving charters to explore the clear waters. The shop serves as a hub for water recreation, providing instruction and guidance for both beginners and experienced adventurers.
11. Summersville Lake Beach
REFRESHING MOUNTAIN SWIMMING
Summersville Lake Beach provides a refreshing escape for visitors looking to cool off in the crystal-clear waters of West Virginia's largest lake. The beach area offers swimming access to the lake known for its superb water quality and stunning backdrop of sheer sandstone cliffs. Families and sun-seekers can enjoy a day of relaxation with convenient facilities and beautiful mountain scenery.
12. Memorial Stadium
LOCAL SPORTS VENUE
Memorial Stadium hosts a variety of sporting events and community gatherings in Summersville, serving as a center for local athletics. The stadium provides a venue for high school sports, community celebrations, and regional competitions throughout the year. Visitors can experience authentic small-town American culture by attending a game or event at this cherished local landmark.
13. Tribal Mountain
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE ZONE
Tribal Mountain offers outdoor enthusiasts access to some of Summersville's most exciting natural recreation opportunities. Visitors can explore hiking trails, rock climbing routes, and mountain biking paths through the beautiful Appalachian terrain. The area showcases the rugged beauty of West Virginia's mountains while providing activities for adventure seekers of all skill levels.
14. Gauley River National Recreation Area
WORLD-CLASS WHITEWATER RAPIDS
The Gauley River National Recreation Area offers some of the most challenging whitewater rafting experiences in the United States, especially during the scheduled releases from Summersville Dam in fall. Adventure seekers flock to the area in September and October when the world-class rapids reach their peak intensity, creating an adrenaline-pumping experience. Beyond rafting, visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in this stunning river gorge.
15. Long Point Trail
SCENIC LAKE OVERLOOK
Long Point Trail leads hikers to one of the most spectacular viewpoints overlooking Summersville Lake and its dramatic sandstone cliffs. The moderate trail winds through forests before emerging at a rock outcropping that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the turquoise waters below. Photographers and nature lovers consider this overlook one of the must-visit spots in the region for capturing the beauty of West Virginia's largest lake.