Summersville

Travel Guide

Summersville featuring military items, heritage architecture and a memorial
Summersville
Summersville featuring heritage elements
Summersville featuring a small town or village and a park
Photo by J Lilly

The rugged and wild landscapes that surround this peaceful mining town are perfect for recreation activities.

The small settlement of Summersville lies on the banks of Summersville Lake, West Virginia’s largest lake. Go swimming, fishing, boating and scuba diving on the scenic expanse of water, hike around the surrounding countryside and learn about the Civil War history associated with the region.

Summersville is a traditional mountain town in the heart of Appalachia. Like much of West Virginia, it relies heavily on the coal industry. In the process of extracting coal, mining companies have performed “mountaintop removals,” which involves blasting parts of the mountain peaks. As you travel outside the town, look for evidence of this mining process on the mountaintops.

Enjoy the area’s many outdoor opportunities. Head to the Summersville Dam for swimming in summer. The dam also marks the start of the upper Gauley River whitewater route. Enjoy the excitement of these explosive rapids, some of which are Class V. Lower Gauley River has a more manageable, scenic course that is suited to less experienced rafters.

Go hiking or boating in the Summersville Lake Retreat and stop at the lighthouse. In 2012, this 104-foot-tall (32-metre) tower was erected overlooking the lake. Climb the 122 steps to reach a viewing gallery, where you can gaze out at the lake and mountains. The panorama is particularly pretty in autumn when the foliage changes colour.

Delve into local history at the Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, the site of an 1861 battle during which Union troops forced a Confederate retreat. Browse the exhibits at the Patterson Museum, open on weekends and holidays, to learn more about the history of the park site.

Sample fruit wine and corn-based spirits in a quiet rural winery settings. Other interesting activities within reach of Summersville include the Mystery Hole, a family-friendly roadside attraction with gravity-defying displays.

The Mountain Transit Authority bus service operates routes between Summersville and Lewisburg, Webster Springs and several other destinations in the area. Rent a car for the freedom to explore all the great wilderness the region offers.

La Quinta Inn & Suites Summersville / New River National Park

La Quinta Inn & Suites Summersville / New River National Park

3 out of 5
106 Merchants Walk Shopping, Summersville, WV
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $136 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
CA $136
CA $153 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Summersville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,256 reviews)
Great place
"This place was terrific. We'd definitely stay here again. Breakfast was good, staff was nice, there was a mix-up in the accommodations, but we got a refund from hotels.com."

Reviewed on Aug. 12, 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites Summersville / New River National Park
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Summersville

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Summersville

2.5 out of 5
1203 Broad St, Summersville, WV
The price is CA $114 per night from Aug 21 to Aug 22
CA $114
CA $131 total
Aug 21 - Aug 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Summersville. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8/10 Very Good! (650 reviews)
"Staff is great. It’s an older property but well maintained. The price is right and it’s quiet."

Reviewed on Aug. 8, 2025

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Summersville
Super 8 by Wyndham Summersville/New River National Park

Super 8 by Wyndham Summersville/New River National Park

2 out of 5
306 Merchants Walk, Summersville, WV
The price is CA $116 per night from Aug 16 to Aug 17
CA $116
CA $131 total
Aug 16 - Aug 17
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Summersville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,003 reviews)
"Comfy bed. Great for a short stay."

Reviewed on Aug. 3, 2025

Super 8 by Wyndham Summersville/New River National Park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Very private and secluded,  Cabin in the woods,  PET FRIENDLY

Very private and secluded, Cabin in the woods, PET FRIENDLY

Summersville
Stay at this cabin in Summersville. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in our reviews. ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (274 reviews)
"Very private location. Older cabin but i prefer that over the new age stuff feels more like home to me. Plenty of stuff to do around within 30 mins. Simple info for check-in and owners were very respectful of privacy. Hot tub was a plus but i stayed out front burning wood which you can buy from em ..."

Reviewed on Aug. 10, 2025

Very private and secluded, Cabin in the woods, PET FRIENDLY
Reel Simple - Pet Friendly with Hot Tub

Reel Simple - Pet Friendly with Hot Tub

Summersville
Stay at this chalet in Summersville. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Summersville Lake and Summersville Lake Recreation ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (74 reviews)
"Perfect getaway spot! Stayed in Reel Simple and it was such a great cabin; close to the lake, food, and hikes. Will definitely recommend and be back."

Reviewed on Jun. 14, 2025

Reel Simple - Pet Friendly with Hot Tub
Cozy cabin close to Summersville Lake and the New River Gorge National Park!

Cozy cabin close to Summersville Lake and the New River Gorge National Park!

Summersville
Stay at this cabin in Summersville. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park and Summersville ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (15 reviews)
The perfect little getaway.
"The perfect place to go after a long hike,"

Reviewed on Aug. 11, 2025

Cozy cabin close to Summersville Lake and the New River Gorge National Park!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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