Here are ten of the loveliest lakeside towns in West Virginia, each offering unique charm and natural beauty:
1. Summersville (Summersville Lake)
Summersville is home to Summersville Lake, the largest in the state, featuring crystal-clear waters and rugged cliffs. The town offers activities like scuba diving, boating, and hiking, along with the Summersville Lake Lighthouse Festival.
2. Cheat Lake (Cheat Lake)
Cheat Lake near Morgantown is a vibrant community with opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Coopers Rock State Forest nearby adds to its appeal with stunning views and trails.
3. Weston (Stonewall Jackson Lake)
Weston is close to Stonewall Jackson Lake, known for fishing and water sports. The Stonewall Resort provides luxurious accommodations, while Weston itself offers historical attractions like the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum.
4. Grafton (Tygart Lake)
Grafton is a historic town near Tygart Lake, offering water activities like swimming and boating. The town’s Civil War history and proximity to Tygart Lake State Park make it a fascinating destination.
5. Hinton (Bluestone Lake)
Hinton sits near Bluestone Lake, a serene spot for fishing, kayaking, and bird-watching. The nearby Bluestone State Park adds hiking trails and breathtaking scenery to its appeal.
6. Elk Garden (Jennings Randolph Lake)
Elk Garden is a quiet retreat near Jennings Randolph Lake, ideal for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for escaping city life.
7. Sutton (Sutton Lake)
Sutton is located near Sutton Lake in the Elk River Wildlife Management Area. The lake is great for fishing and kayaking, while Sutton’s historic downtown adds charm to this peaceful lakeside community.
8. Eccles (Stephens Lake)
Eccles is a small town near Stephens Lake, offering tranquility and hiking opportunities in lush forests. Its simplicity and natural beauty make it ideal for those seeking solitude.
9. Berkeley County (Sleepy Creek Lake)
Sleepy Creek Lake in Berkeley County is renowned for trophy bass fishing and rustic charm. It’s surrounded by stunning landscapes perfect for camping and hiking.
10. Wayne County (East Lynn Lake)
East Lynn Lake in Wayne County offers boating, swimming, fishing, and picnicking amidst wooded hills. It’s also popular among water skiing enthusiasts.
These lakeside towns showcase West Virginia’s blend of outdoor adventure, scenic beauty, and welcoming communities.
Sources
- https://www.drgfl.com/lake-towns-in-west-virginia-8-beautiful-lakes-in-west-virginia-to-live-on-in-2024/
- https://www.worldatlas.com/cities/10-stunning-small-towns-in-west-virginia.html
- https://www.redfin.com/blog/lakes-in-west-virginia-to-live-on/
- https://wvtourism.com/summer-family-lakes/
- https://thetravelingwildflower.com/visit-west-virginia/
