The 'Little Bahamas Of The East' Is West Virginia's Underrated Lake State Park For Pristine Snorkeling

When you think of the best snorkeling spots in the U.S., you probably expect gorgeously clear water and high visibility backed by bouldering cliffs and sheer rock walls where you might be able to scuba dive, too. You may think of Coral Gardens in Maui, which boasts crystal-clear water and incredible snorkeling, but coastal regions and islands aren't the only places to find great underwater adventures. Certainly, it's a long shot to suggest that West Virginia would have incredible snorkeling — after all, it's a landlocked state known best for its mountains. The fact is, Summersville Lake, West Virginia, aka "The Little Bahamas of the East," is a pristine lake in Appalachia's Mountain State popular with scuba divers and snorkelers, with underwater caves and soaring limestone bluffs.

The temperatures in West Virginia range from 20 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the season. Although the lake is accessible year-round, unless you're one for cold plunges, you may only want to visit in summer when the water can get up into the 80s. It's a unique place; not only does Summersville Lake have all the water-based activities you could want, but there are also plenty of hiking trails, camping spots, and historic sites in the area.

To get to Summersville Lake in West Virginia, the most direct way is to fly into Charleston International Airport, about 60 miles east. There's also a small airfield at Summersville Lake for private pilots who need a stop or refuel. You'll know you've arrived at the Little Bahamas of the East when you see the "Almost Heaven" swing at the park entrance, an homage to West Virginia's unofficial motto.

Summersville Lake is an artificial reservoir. Prior to 1960, the nearby Kanawha and Gauley river valleys were repeatedly flooded in destructive seasonal rains. To manage the floodplain, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers constructed a dam in the Gauley River, creating the Summersville Lake reservoir. The dam was a major project, costing over $48 million and even relocating a few small towns. It is the second-largest dam of its kind in the U.S., standing 390 feet tall and 2,280 feet long. In the early 2000s, a hydraulic renovation repurposed the dam's power for electricity in the region, and in 2023, 177 acres of the surrounding land were named a state park.

The approximately 2,800-acre lake is the largest in West Virginia. It has also been called the clearest lake in the U.S. east of the Mississippi River, in part because scuba divers report up to 45 feet of forward visibility. Some have theorized it's so clear because of the limestone lake walls, but others have pointed out it's not as clear as Florida's crystal springs, which filter via natural water flow.

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, Summersville Lake attracts thousands of visitors. Take a dive lesson or get certified from Sarge's Dive Shop so you can explore the sunken Thomas Patrick. You can also rent snorkel gear to check out unique underwater geology or a stand-up paddleboard to explore the caves and inlets, including a waterfall at Pirate's Cove. The lake has a full-service marina where you can rent kayaks and pontoons. Fishing is also an option, as the lake is stocked with walleye, a variety of bass, and rainbow trout. You can fish from shore or the public boat ramps if you don't have your own watercraft.

The coolest thing about Summersville Lake is that every weekend for six weeks starting in September, the U.S. Army Corps facilitates dam releases, allowing tons of water to torrent down Gauley River. The Upper Gauley is considered a premier destination for whitewater rafting, offering Class V rapids, but the Lower Gauley has slightly less turbulence, making it accessible for every paddler. For about two months each fall, you can book whitewater trips and guided tours through a few companies at Summersville Lake.

Out of the water, Battle Run is a sandy beach with camping facilities and a great spot to stop for the day. There are trails throughout the park that take you over cliffs with incredible views or through the woods around the beaches. Summersville Lake Retreat and Lighthouse offers camping sites on the lake, along with a handful of cabins and a real lighthouse you can tour. You can also check out Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, which also features another West Virginia landmark for history buffs: Harpers Ferry National Park.

About 5 miles away from the marina in Summersville town, there are a handful of restaurants and amenities if you want to ditch the lake for an evening. Stock up on groceries for camping or get a pint at Maloney's Pub, a sports bar with classic fare. There are also a few chain hotels in town, including a Best Western and a Hampton Inn.