West Virginia / Braxton County / Elk River Wildlife Management Area

Sutton Lake Picnic Shelters

Closed — Closed for the winter season. The shelters typically reopen in spring for reservations.

About

Sutton Lake Picnic Shelters provide five distinct group shelters in two scenic locations along Sutton Lake and the Elk River in central West Virginia. Shelters 1 and 2 occupy the Downstream Area below the impressive 210-foot Sutton Dam, overlooking the Elk River with its renowned muskie, walleye, and stocked trout fishing. Both shelters feature water and electric hookups, with Shelter 1 being ADA accessible. The Downstream Area includes a playground, fishing pier, small boat access, horseshoe pits, cornhole, ample parking, and accessible flush toilets. Shelters 3, 4, and 5 are located in the Bee Run Day Use Area, offering views of Sutton Lake as it winds 14 miles up the Elk River valley. These shelters also provide water and electric hookups, with Shelter 4 being ADA accessible. The Bee Run Area features a large swimming beach, playground, the nearby Sutton Lake Marina with rentals and concessions, flush toilets, and extensive parking. Each shelter accommodates six to eight picnic tables and includes a large charcoal grill. The lake covers 1,440 acres with 40 miles of shoreline surrounded by rolling hills forested with oak, hickory, poplar, and cherry. The area attracts abundant wildlife including deer, bears, turkeys, and waterfowl. Anglers find excellent fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish. Fire roads and hunting trails in the surrounding Elk River Wildlife Management Area provide hiking and biking opportunities. Note that alcohol is prohibited at Sutton Lake.

Directions

Shelters 1, 2, and 3 are at Sutton Dam. From I-79, take Exit 62 toward Sutton/Gassaway. Turn left on SR-4 for approximately 2 miles into Sutton. Turn right at the stop sign, cross the Elk River, and turn left to the dam. Shelters 4 and 5 are in Bee Run Day Use Area. From I-79, take Exit 67 toward Flatwoods. Turn right on SR-4. Go 1 mile to SR-15 and turn left. Continue a mile to Bee Run Day Use Area and turn right. GPS directions may not be accurate.

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