West Virginia's Highest Lake Is A Mountain Beauty For Camping, Fishing, And Stargazing

West Virginia is the East Coast state that has the most mountains, and it's completely understandable why it has earned the right to be called "The Mountain State." Some peaks reach higher than others, though, and those seeking the highest elevations will want to head to Spruce Knob — the state's highest peak coming in at 4,863 feet. This is also where you'll find West Virginia's highest lake that carries the same moniker — Spruce Knob Lake. 

Anglers seem to love it, but not just for the abundance of fish. This Tripadvisor reviewer gave it five stars and said, "Went trout fishing at Spruce Knob Lake... [People] are missing out if they don't visit this area." The lake is a mountain beauty and the eye appeal of the natural scenery is part of the allure. Depending on the time of day you visit, you can experience a different appreciation for its splendor. If you visit at sunrise, you can see the fog and the reflection of the towering trees on the still water. When you visit at night, cast your eyes toward the sky, as this is also a tranquil spot for stargazing. If you visit during peak fall foliage, you will get to experience Spruce Knob's unbeatable autumn views.

If you want to truly immerse yourself, plan to stay overnight. The Spruce Knob Lake Campground is near the lake and provides a scenic spot to spend the night. This Google reviewer shared, "I could not recommend a more beautiful, comfortable place to camp." Whether you're going to West Virginia's highest lake to fish, to camp out overnight and stargaze, or just to take in the beauty of the mountains, there are a few things you'll want to know before you go.

Spruce Knob Lake is known for its trout fishing. Make sure you pack your fishing gear when you go (and use our simple pool noodle fishing hack to keep your rods safe while you're traveling). Swimming is off-limits at Spruce Knob, but so while you can't take a dip in the water, there are plenty of fish swimming in the lake — especially at one specific time of the year. The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources stocks the lake with trout on a weekly basis from March through May. That's not all you can catch there, however. Cast a line in the water and you may also land a sunfish or a smallmouth bass. 

If you have a boat, feel free to bring it along, as there is a boat ramp available. However, according to the 2026 edition of the West Virginia Fishing Regulations Summary, only motor boats with electric motors are allowed on Spruce Knob Lake. Don't feel like you have to be on the water to catch fish, though. There's also a fishing pier, so you can fish from the shoreline. In the more frigid times of year, you can also bundle up and try out ice fishing on Spruce Knob Lake. 

In most instances, you'll need a fishing license if you plan to fish at Spruce Knob Lake, though there are some exceptions. There are also a couple of days each year that are designated as Free Fishing Days in the Mountain State. On those days, you can fish for free in West Virginia, and you don't need a license. This provides a cost-effective way to try your luck at catching fish when visiting Spruce Knob Lake.

If you're hoping to enjoy a few days and nights here, you can stay nearby at the Spruce Knob Lake Campground — it's less than a mile away. This Google reviewer raves, "This campground is a treasure. The sites are separated enough that we didn't hear or see our neighbors. Beautifully wooded and isolated sites." Just make sure you know how to properly bear-proof your campsite, because according to this reviewer they "Heard a Bear behind our site (38) 2 nights in a row, the friendly camp host assured us he was not aggressive just looking for mushrooms."

Aside from wildlife viewing, there's another big perk that comes with being at Spruce Knob Lake at night — stargazing. Redditor mappylife writes on r/LandscapeAstro that it is "one of the darkest places on the east coast," and they went there to photograph the Milky Way. Although their images came out beautiful, they had some challenges, saying, "Moisture by the lake made lenses fog up, had to wipe lens frequently." The West Virginia Department of Tourism shared another tip for visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the twinkling stars. The department's website states: "Four days before or after a new moon is considered to be the best time to get a starry shot."

While you can go fishing or stargazing at Spruce Knob Lake any time, you'll want to time your trip appropriately if you want to camp. The campground is usually open from mid-April through mid-October. You can book 11 months in advance, so try to book early to ensure you get a spot.