Summit Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates from early May through October 31. Vault toilets close December 1. Summit Lake remains accessible year-round, though the access road does not receive routine snow removal.

About

Summit Lake Campground is a 33-unit semi-primitive facility nestled in the Monongahela National Forest within the Gauley Ranger District. The campground features two distinct loops: the first loop contains sites 1-9 with a spring-fed water faucet, while the second loop offers sites 10-33 with a hand pump water source. Both loops provide double vault toilets, trash service, and easy access to the Summit Lake loop trail. Each campsite is equipped with a paved parking spur, picnic table, lantern post, and fire ring with a gravel activity area. The campground sits adjacent to Summit Lake, a 43-acre cold water reservoir constructed in 1956 as a water source for Richwood. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources stocks the lake with trout in spring and fall, and it also supports naturally reproducing populations of largemouth bass and panfish. The 1.8-mile trail around the lake offers excellent shoreline fishing access and wildlife viewing opportunities, including bald eagles and black bears. At an elevation of 3,392 feet, visitors can find aspen trees and diverse bird species. The campground serves as an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions including the Cranberry Wilderness, Cranberry Glades, Falls of Hills Creek, and the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center. Only electric outboard motors are allowed on the lake, making it a peaceful destination for canoeing and kayaking. The town of Richwood, just 10 miles away, offers local restaurants and basic supplies. Cell phone coverage is very spotty throughout the campground. The road to Summit Lake does not receive routine snow removal or treatment during winter months.

Directions

From Richwood, travel east on State Route 39/55 approximately 8 miles to Summit Lake Road (WV39/5), then 2.2 miles to Summit Lake Campground. From Marlinton, travel south on US-219 S approximately 8.3 miles to Mill Point, turn right onto WV-39 W/WV-55 W for approximately 21 miles, turn right onto Summit Lake Road (WV39/5), then approximately 2.2 miles and turn left into the campground.

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