Affordable summer adventure awaits in the Greater Summersville Area of West Virginia!
From outdoor recreation to local events and festivals, you’ll find fun for the whole family right in your own backyard.
Summersville Strolling
West Virginia gives eager adventurers and hopeful vacationers plenty of options for little-to-no-cost fun in the Mountain State. The Greater Summersville Area is one such location, overflowing with opportunities for a unique, exciting excursion that doesn’t break the bank.
Summersville is home to one of the state’s most recent additions to the state park system and its largest lake. Summersville Lake State Park is a paradise for affordable outdoor recreation, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and climbing. Just off the parking lot, an Almost Heaven swing is the perfect photo op. Down at the lake, numerous boat ramps and launches open to the public make it easy to get out on the water in your boat, kayak, or SUP—rented or brought from home. More than 350 climbing routes are available for those looking for a challenge. Make sure to hike the Long Point Trail, one of the most popular trails, with some of the best views of the lake—no payment required.
If you prefer to stay on shore, soak up some sun on the beach of Battle Run Recreation Area for a small fee per vehicle. Or head on over to Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park and take a dip in the pool. Sit back and relax while enjoying a meal—and the view—at the Dam Site Picnic Area. Speaking of views, Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse’s 104-foot steel lighthouse stands proudly—it’s the only one in land-locked West Virginia, after all—and boasts a 360-degree view from the top.
While in Summersville, you can visit not only the newest state park in the state, but also one of the oldest in our mountains—in the country, too. A landmark of the Civil War, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park is rife with history and home to the historic Patterson House. Find fantastic views of the Gauley River along the two-mile Patterson Trail and its three overlooks.
Looking for something not in the great outdoors? Kirkwood Winery and Isaiah Morgan Distillery offer free tours and tastings throughout the week, though you’ll most likely want to take a bottle or two home with you! Don’t forget to peruse the numerous local shops in town.
Richwood Rambling
For fun away from the lake, head to the forest and visit nearby Richwood. Take in the wonders created by talented artists at Bloomfield Richwood or learn local culture and history at the Mill Whistle Arts & Richwood Heritage Center. For some cost-free outdoor fun, hike or bike the 16-mile Cranberry Tri-Rivers Rail Trail or take a stroll down Main Street and admire the public artwork at the Sterling Spencer Memorial Sculpture Garden. Slow down and enjoy the tranquility of the Cherry River as you trout fish, if you’re so inclined. Richwood is the southern gateway to the neighboring Monongahela National Forest and grants visitors easy access not only to well-loved trails, but to thriving waterways as well. You can explore the hundreds of miles of hiking and backpacking trails in the Cranberry River and Backcountry.
Events Not To Be Missed
There’s always something happening in Greater Summersville, especially in the summer months. Find vibrant festivals and colorful fairs all season long, open to the public for a small fee or free of charge.
Nicholas County Fair
July 23–26
It’s 100 years of fun at the 2025 Nicholas County Fair! Rides, music, games, food, and more make this a fair you won’t want to miss.
Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park, Summersville
Cherry River Festival
July 28–August 2
Celebrating the rich history of Richwood with pageants, parades, live music, and more in the heart of this Mon Forest Town.
Downtown Richwood
Summersville Lighthouse Festival
August 8–9
Honoring the state’s only working lighthouse, the Lighthouse Festival includes vintage goods, food and craft vendors, live music, and raffles.
Summersville Lake Retreat & Lighthouse, Mount Nebo
Plan your trip to the Greater Summersville Area for fun the whole family can enjoy.
Visit summersvillecvb.com to learn more.
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