While the New River Gorge National Park may be better known, climbers and other outdoor adventurers shouldn’t miss Summersville State Park in West Virginia if they’re looking to try some different climbs – including deep-water soloing – or just looking for a lake day to cool off.
Rock climbers at Summersville Lake State Park in West Virginia.
Location
36 Park Road, Summersville, West Virginia 26651
Why it matters
Summersville State Park was officially designated in 2023 and was West Virginia’s first new state park in more than 30 years. It hugs the shore of Summersville Lake, a reservoir of the nearby Summersville Dam, which was constructed between 1960 and 1966.
What to see today
The park features a variety of outdoor recreation, from boating and diving opportunities on Summersville Lake to hiking and biking trails. But its main draw is rock climbing.
“Summersville Lake State Park is West Virginia’s first state park with climbing access and the nation’s first state park with an emphasis on climbing education,” West Virginia State Parks’ website says.
Climbers relaxing near one of the rock walls at Summersville Lake State Park in West Virginia.
It’s also a great place for climbers to try deep-water soloing, or climbing without ropes over water, which acts as a natural landing pad if you fall.
Ask a local
Summersville Lake State Park is just south of Summersville, West Virginia, and is about a 20-minute drive north of Fayetteville, West Virginia. Both towns offer great local places to stop for a meal or some shopping.
Inside Cathedral Café in Fayetteville, West Virginia.
Plan your visit
Best time: The park is open year-round, 24/7, but those wanting to take full advantage of the lake (which is technically adjacent to, but not in, the park) should aim for the warmer months.
Hours/admission: The park is free to visit and does not close.
Getting there: You’ll need a car to access Summersville Lake State Park.
Learn more: https://wvstateparks.com/parks/summersville-lake-state-park/
Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York, and you can reach him at zwichter@usatoday.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Why climbers are flocking to this West Virginia state park
