Add These 8 West Virginia State Park Lakes to Your Spring & Summer Bucket List
A sunny day makes for a relaxing waterside cooldown in West Virginia. With several state parks featuring a sizable lake, the Mountain State boasts all the space you could ever dream of for your water-filled adventures.
This spring & summer, make a splash at one of the beautiful West Virginia state parks and enjoy life on the water.
Beech Fork State Park
Beech Fork State Park boasts more than enough space to make any adventure on the water memorable. This 3,144-acre state park is home to a 720-acre lake with 31 miles of shoreline. Cast a line and catch some of West Virginia’s most popular sport fish or rent canoes, kayaks, jon boats, paddle boats and stand-up paddle boards. Extend your stay at one of the 275 campsites in four distinct camping areas, of which 80 are lakefront.
Bluestone State Park
Hit the water and experience the best of Bluestone State Park in Hinton. The 2,040-acre lake is the state’s third-largest body of water. Boat launches are available on the Bluestone River and Bluestone Lake. Find the perfect fishing boat, pontoon boat, kayak and canoe to rent at the marina.
When you’re back on shore, take a picture on the Almost Heaven swing and share it on social media using #WVStateParks and #AlmostHeaven!
North Bend State Park
Named for the horseshoe curve of the North Fork of the Hughes River, North Bend State Park near Cairo is a playground for adventurers who enjoy the lake life. The 305-acre lake boasts excellent opportunities for reeling in bass, crappie, catfish, and musky. Boat rentals at North Bend Outfitters include canoes, kayaks, Jon boats and pontoons. After a day on the water, dry off and take a relaxing hike on the 72-mile North Bend Rail Trail sections.
Pipestem Resort State Park
Just 20 minutes from Bluestone State Park, the sprawling 4,050-acre park at Pipestem Resort State Park is on the border of Summers and Mercer counties. The Long Branch boat dock is open in the summer and offers rowboat, paddleboat, paddleboard, kayak and canoe rentals. Take the kids to Adventure Lake and let them climb giant inflatable mountains, slide, and trampoline and make a splash in the lake.
Want to add more time to your lake day getaway at Pipestem? Extend your stay in one of 26 cozy cabins or two lodges.
Stonewall Resort State Park
Stonewall Resort State Park in Roanoke offers a secluded retreat surrounded by rolling hills, promising visitors a peaceful lake life. Make a splash on the 2,600-acre Stonewall Jackson Lake and enjoy the surrounding beauty. If you enjoy casting a line, you’ll love fishing here. The lake is known for its high count of muskellunge, crappie and bass.
Summersville Lake State Park
Summersville Lake State Park is West Virginia’s newest state park and features one of the most unique lakes you’ll ever see. Nicknamed “The Little Bahamas of the East,” the 2,700-acre Summersville Lake has clear waters and boasts scenic views from the unique rock formations along the coast. If you’re into flatwater paddling, the still waters here are perfect. This is also a relaxing spot for swimming, kayaking and canoeing, so there is a water activity for everyone. The parking area in the wilderness also perches an Almost Heaven swing for you to add another scenic selfie to your scrapbook!
Tygart Lake State Park
Located in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains in scenic north-central West Virginia, Tygart Lake State Park provides adventurers with a quiet setting for lake days. This lake spans 1,750 acres, which is the perfect space for water skiing, scuba diving, swimming, kayaking, canoeing and fishing. No matter where you are in the lake, the mountain views are unbeatable and make for a relaxing way to cap off your day outside.
For endless fun jumping into the water, take the whole family to Tygart Adventure Lake. The Adventure Lake features 25 giant inflatables and a sandy beach area with lounge chairs.
Watoga State Park
Relax on a paddle boat, kayak or canoe at Watoga State Park. The 11-acre Watoga Lake is located in the mountains of Pocahontas County and is known for excellent fishing opportunities. Plan a camping trip and enjoy the starry sky, as this state park is an International Dark Sky Destination. No matter what lake activities you choose at Watoga, you will surely make memories that will last a lifetime.
Which West Virginia State Parks will you make a splash at this sunny season? Find more amazing lakes to explore and stay informed on what’s happening in West Virginia!