Summit Lake, located in Greenbrier, West Virginia, is a picturesque reservoir managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and owned by the Forest Service.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1955 for recreational purposes, the earth dam stands at 34 feet high with a hydraulic height of 32 feet. With a storage capacity of 613 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 290 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 39 acres and is fed by the Coats Run stream.
Despite its serene appearance, Summit Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its condition not being rated, making it crucial for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. The reservoir's spillway, controlled by a 4-foot-wide slide gate, has a maximum discharge capacity of 2,352 cubic feet per second. Although the dam has not been modified since 2019, its risk assessment remains very high, highlighting the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Summit Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as fishing and wildlife observation. As a vital water supply source for the local community, the reservoir serves as a valuable asset not only for leisure but also for sustaining the surrounding ecosystem. With its rich history and natural beauty, Summit Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in preserving our precious water resources for future generations.
Years Modified |
2019 - Other |
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
1375 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
COATS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
39 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
613 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
34 |
Cranberry River Near Richwood
|
70cfs |
Williams River At Dyer
|
130cfs |
Gauley River Near Craigsville
|
602cfs |
Greenbrier River At Buckeye
|
219cfs |
Elk River Below Webster Springs
|
333cfs |
Meadow River At Nallen
|
337cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cranberry Campground
|
||
Cranberry
|
||
Cranberry River Sites
|
||
Bishop Knob Campground
|
||
Bishop Knob
|
||
Day Run
|
Darnell Run To Rabbit Run
Rabbit Run To Private Land .5 Mile From Richwood
The U.S. Forest Service Cranberry Campground
To The Confluence With The Gauley River
The Headwaters
To The U.S. Forest Service Cranberry Campground
Three Forks To Spice Run
The Junction With Williams River
To The Junction With Panther Creek