Battle Run
4.42217 reviews2981 SUMMERSVILLE LAKE ROAD
Battle Run
$24.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$24.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates: $40 for Standard Electric sites; $24 for Tent Only Nonelectric sites. First-come, first-served season maintains same fees. Additional fees like reservation service fee ($8 online/app, $9 contact center, $3 in-person). Discounts apply for Interagency Passes on recreation use fees.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of Summersville Lake, Battle Run Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comforts and natural beauty. Wake up to stunning waterfront views from your campsite, enjoy the convenience of electric hookups, and refresh in clean facilities featuring flush toilets and hot showers. After a day of adventure, take advantage of on-site laundry facilities or launch your boat from the easily accessible ramp to explore 60 miles of spectacular shoreline.
Battle Run Campground offers various accommodations including RV sites with electric hookups, primitive tent sites, and waterfront spots. Group camping is also supported.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the nearby Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, where the echoes of Civil War history come alive through immersive reenactments and thoughtfully curated exhibits. Adventure seekers will find themselves just moments from the world-famous New River Gorge, where vertical sandstone walls have drawn rock climbers from across the globe to test their skills on some of America's most iconic routes.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Battle Run into an aquatic playground, with late May through early September delivering sun-soaked days perfect for swimming, boating, and lakeside relaxation. The shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall paint the landscape in spectacular colors, offering crisp mornings and comfortable afternoons ideal for hiking and exploring, though evenings may call for a cozy campfire and extra layer.
Natural Features and ScenerySummersville Lake's crystal-clear waters stretch across 60 miles of breathtaking shoreline, where towering sandstone cliffs plunge into hidden coves waiting to be discovered. The surrounding forest creates a living tapestry of wildlife, where lucky visitors might spot majestic black bears foraging at dawn, white-tailed deer grazing in meadows, or catch the drumming of ruffed grouse echoing through the trees. Wild turkeys strut through the underbrush, completing this vibrant ecosystem.
Geological RegionDramatic sandstone cliffs rise from Summersville Lake's emerald waters, creating a geological wonderland of hidden coves and secret swimming holes. The ancient forest canopy overhead weaves together a rich tapestry of native hardwoods – stately maples paint the autumn in fire, mighty oaks stand sentinel over the shoreline, while hickory, beech, and birch trees create a diverse ecosystem that changes with each season, offering year-round natural beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible boat ramp and fishing dock available; showers and flush toilets are noted as accessible.
Sites SizeVaried, including large and waterfront sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies among sites; some users commented that "sites are somewhat close together...neighbors are pretty close," while others appreciated the spaciousness.
Total Campsites117 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPremium waterfront sites may offer better lake access; tent sites in Loop C recommended for proximity to clean restrooms.
Best CampsitesSites with direct water access recommended, such as Site 7 in Loop A and Site 51 in Loop D.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Varies by season
- 7 AM to midnight during peak season.
Check-out
- Varies by season
- 10 AM recommended to avoid site delays.
Stay Limit
- 14 consecutive nights allowed per visit
- total of 14 nights within rolling 30-day period.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground divided into loops (A-G); tent and electric sites available; waterfront sites concentrated in certain areas.
Open and Closed SeasonReservable dates from May 21 to September 2, 2025; becomes first-come, first-served till October 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online/app, contact centers, and in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served season begins September 3, 2025, with consistent site rates.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival refund minus $10 fee and reservation service fees. Late cancellations forfeit first night's fee and $10 fee. Changes incur $10 fee for non-date adjustments.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Battle Run Campground provides a wide range of outdoor recreational activities including boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, biking, and rock climbing. The lake's clear waters and surrounding cliffs enhance experiences like scuba diving and kayaking. Wildlife is abundant, and the playground is popular among younger visitors.
Hiking
Hiking trails surround Summersville Lake, offering scenic views of the cliffs and dense forests. Some trails lead to historical sites.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is excellent in Summersville Lake, with anglers catching bass, walleye, panfish, and catfish. Trout are stocked below the dam during spring and fall.Swimming
Swimming is available in Summersville Lake, with a designated beach area. "The swimming area was not covered in duck or goose droppings."Biking
Biking opportunities exist around the campground, and the area is family-friendly for younger bikers. "Kids riding bikes alone felt safe," noted one review.Boating
Boating is highly popular, with pontoon boat rentals available nearby. Sites allow docking, making it easy for campers to access the lake.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.Beach activities
Beach activities are popular due to the clear and scenic waterfront. "Loved having a waterfront campsite to swim directly from our site."Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions include Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park, which offers a Civil War Battle Reenactment every other year.Winter Activities
Snow-related activities are not mentioned explicitly for the campground.Water Sports
Great opportunities for kayaking, water skiing, and paddleboarding are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings provided; firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours listed but enforcement noted as inconsistent in reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsFluctuating lake levels may affect waterfront sites; wildlife presence like bears noted; occasional high grass and driftwood reported in reviews.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Summersville town offers emergency services, including hospitals, police stations, and service stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025 - September 2, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but some reviews noted issues like overflowing dumpsters and trash around campsites. "Lots of trash around the grounds and the dumpsters were overflowing."
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Summersville Lake, known for clear water and a 'no wake zone' ideal for paddle craft.
Common complaintsIssues with bathroom cleanliness, quiet hours enforcement, grass cutting delays, and inconsistent lake levels noted in reviews.
HostHosts reportedly helpful and accommodating but inconsistent availability noted.
Campground Map
2981 SUMMERSVILLE LAKE ROAD
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 19, turn west on State Route 129 and travel 3 miles to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads; peak season hours noted for check-in stations.Nearby places
Summersville (approximately 5 miles north), Summersville Lake Retreat (approximately 3 miles east), Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park (approximately 10-minute drive), New River Gorge (18 miles south).
Nearby supplies
Summersville town, approximately 5 miles north, offers grocery stores, restaurants, and service stations. Summersville Lake Marina provides kayak and pontoon rentals, and other nearby locations offer camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
217 reviews
Battle Run is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Battle Run Campground are mixed, with many praising its scenic location and family-friendly atmosphere, while others criticize cleanliness and enforcement of rules.
Review Summaries
Based on 217 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean facilities, exceptional lake access, diverse activities, and helpful staff are frequently mentioned. "Wonderful site right on the lake with a spectacular view."
Based on 217 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include dirty bathrooms, lack of enforcement of quiet hours, overflowing trash, and mismanagement of pet policies. "Bathrooms were horrendous...constantly barking dogs."
Based on 217 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Book early to secure lakefront sites, choose quieter loops to avoid disturbances, and bring firewood as it isn't sold on-site.
Based on 217 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are highly popular due to warmer weather and swimming opportunities. Fall offers scenic views but fewer facilities. Winter activity is minimal.
Based on 217 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The facilities are clean and reasonably maintained." "The lake is great for boating, kayaking, and swimming." "Bathrooms need major improvements." "Staff is friendly and helpful."
Based on 217 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 051 noted for scenic views; site T02 criticized for lack of level ground and privacy.
Based on 217 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible boat ramp and fishing dock praised. Bathrooms are generally described as accessible.
Based on 217 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed, but some campers report seeing dogs on-site, causing frustration among rule-abiding visitors.
Based on 217 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025