Summersville Lake State Park - Summersville, WV
Summersville Lake State Park – Dog-Friendly Adventures in Summersville, West Virginia
Summersville Lake State Park is a beautiful, emerging destination for outdoor enthusiasts and dog owners seeking pet-friendly trails and scenic views near Summersville, West Virginia. The park showcases the captivating sights of Summersville Lake, especially from the Pirate’s Cove Trail, which offers panoramic views for you and your leashed furry companion. While much of the park is still under construction, it already features ample parking and picnic spots for visitors to enjoy a day out with their dogs.
The primary attraction for dog walkers is the moderate Pirate’s Cove Trail, known for its lake overlook and adventurous hike. Please note that this trail is gravel, moderately strenuous, and is not currently wheelchair accessible. Amenities are limited as the park continues to develop, but it stands out as an adventurous, wild, and pet-friendly hiking area. Whether you’re a local or visiting for the day, Summersville Lake State Park is a top pick for dog-friendly hiking in Nicholas County.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the best place to park? Good parking is available on-site, though it’s currently gravel and located at the trailhead.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the Pirate’s Cove Trail within the park is popular for hiking with dogs.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Restrooms are currently under construction and may not be available yet.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, at this time the park and its trails are not wheelchair accessible due to construction and gravel terrain.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Some shade from trees may be present, but designated shelters are not mentioned.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? There is a picnic area on-site that welcomes visitors.
Reviews
4 stars because it needs INFORMATION about the park, trails and what to follow to get where.
5 STARS The view, trail and parking lot
FOLLOW THE PIRATE’S COVE TRAIL (Orange) to enjoy this view 😊
I am from Indiana and going to Summersville Lake State Park was like being transported into a jungle. Loved the wildlife and view atop pirates cove!
First of all, the area is under construction, but if you are visiting Summersville, then this place is a must. The Pirate’s Cove trail (moderate) leads you to an amazing view of Summersville Lake. The parking is gravel. Picnic area. Restrooms under construction. Not wheelchair accessible.
Beautiful lake, the park itself is still under construction so don’t expect a lot to do.
So far, they have good parking, good picnic area and a swing.
The trail to the “Pirates Cove” is moderate.
Probably a bit strenuous for some. (Bring good shoes)
I have to give this new State Park 3 stars for a few reasons.
First they are still doing construction at the main entrance and up to the parking lot and it’s very confusing with all the construction people working and a good size hill on the gravel road up to the parking lot.
Once you get parked it’s all gravel and a very moderate trail for someone who is in good health. It is NOT handicapped acceptable for anyone who uses a cane, walker, wheelchair or has difficulty walking.
Since I am disabled with difficulty walking, I had to stay behind in the car (as there was no where to sit outside) while my husband ventured off to look at this park. I wanted him to go and check it out and while he did come back with some nice pictures, he said the trail was difficult.
So, I guess we will not be back to this State Park unless they make it handicapped friendly.