Summersville Lake, West Virginia

Considered by many the clearest and cleanest freshwater lake east of the Mississippi River, Summersville Lake, which is south of Summersville and near Mount Nebo, was formed by a dam built in the early 1960s on Gaulery River. Divers can discover towering rock cliffs, boulders and swim-throughs up to 100 feet (30 m) below the surface. Area activities include swimming, whitewater rafting, fishing, hiking and rock climbing.

Depths to: 327 feet (99 m)

Visibility: 25-80 feet (7.5-24 m)

Water temperature: 68-85 degrees Fahrenheit (20-30 degrees Celsius) during the diving season, which is mid-May through September.

Aquatic life: Includes bass, walleye and catfish.

Fees: None to dive the lake. However, a boat is needed to reach the most popular diving areas.

On-site amenities: Battle Run campground has a boat launching ramp, access to fishing, showers, trailer waste disposal facilities, playground, restrooms, parking, swimming and picnic areas. Other campgrounds and boat ramps, plus a visitors center and hiking trails also are available.

For more info: Call the U.S. Corps of Engineers at Summersville Lake at (304) 872-3412 or dive stores in West Virginia.

Open: Year-round.

Getting there: Directions: From Route 19 near Mount Nebo, take Route 129 to the dam, office and lake.