Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingFishing PierRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Summersville Lake

Keslers Cross Lanes, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Summersville Lake is a public boat ramp on Gauley River near Keslers Cross Lanes, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Public launch on Gauley River in West Virginia. Beginner-friendly river paddling near Keslers Cross Lanes.

Situated along Gauley River in West Virginia, Summersville Lake provides convenient river access for kayakers, canoeists, and other paddlers.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and fishing pier and restrooms.

At about 5 min from Keslers Cross Lanes, Summersville Lake is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Keslers Cross Lanes area.

Paddling Tips

  • Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
  • Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
  • Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
  • Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Summersville Lake?
Summersville Lake is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Summersville Lake?
Summersville Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Summersville Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Summersville Lake?
The best time to paddle at Summersville Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Summersville Lake?
Water conditions at Summersville Lake include mild current.
Is Summersville Lake good for beginners?
Yes, Summersville Lake is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 38.2254, -80.9106

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Keslers Cross Lanes
Get Directions

38.2254, -80.9106

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More Paddling on Gauley River

1 other launch on this water body