Sutton Lake

For dining near Sutton Lake, several options are available in the nearby town of Sutton. The Elk River Hotel & Cafe offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of beer and cocktails, serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Another popular spot is the BrAXton Bistro, known for its fast service and live music, providing a family-friendly environment. Woods & Waters Restaurant is also a favorite, offering outdoor seating and a casual dining experience. For a hearty breakfast, Waffle Hut is a great choice, serving up delicious waffles and other comfort foods.

These restaurants cater to various tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have a range of options to enjoy during their stay.

For accommodations near Sutton Lake, the Elk River Hotel & Cafe is a top choice, offering not only dining but also cozy rooms. Another option is the Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sutton Flatwoods, which provides a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor pools. For a budget-friendly stay, the Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gassaway/Sutton offers simple yet comfortable accommodations with free breakfast.

These hotels provide a range of amenities to suit different needs and preferences.

Sutton Lake offers several amenities for visitors. Restrooms are available at the Project Office and all recreation areas. The lake features two marinas and four boat-launching ramps, making it easy for boaters to access the water. Additionally, there are three public campgrounds, including the Gerald R. Freeman Campground, which offers 158 sites. The surrounding Elk River Wildlife Management Area provides opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing.

For those interested in hiking or biking, Sutton Lake presents a network of 31 public trail systems, with over 30 miles of trails. The Jeremiah Carpenter Trail is a notable option for mountain bikers, offering a challenging and scenic ride.

Rental equipment for water activities is not explicitly mentioned, but the marinas and nearby towns may offer such services.

Sutton Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include boating, fishing, and kayaking. The lake's serene waters make it ideal for a relaxing day on the water. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding Elk River Wildlife Management Area offers hunting opportunities for squirrel, turkey, deer, and waterfowl. The extensive trail network around the lake is perfect for hiking and mountain biking, with trails like the Jeremiah Carpenter Trail providing a challenging yet scenic experience.

The lake's proximity to the Elk River Water Trail also makes it a great starting point for exploring the river's diverse landscapes. This blue-level trail stretches 77 miles, offering numerous access points for explorers.

Sutton Lake and its surrounding facilities offer several accessibility options. Restrooms at the recreation areas are wheelchair accessible, and parking lots are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. The nearby hotels, such as the Elk River Hotel and Days Inn, also provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating areas.

While specific details about wheelchair rentals or assistive equipment at the lake are not available, the overall infrastructure is designed to be inclusive for visitors with disabilities. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities offered by Sutton Lake.

Parking near Sutton Lake is generally accessible. The recreation areas and marinas have designated parking lots, and restrooms are available at these locations. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers manages the facilities, ensuring that parking is convenient for visitors. While specific parking fees are not mentioned, the overall setup is designed to accommodate visitors comfortably.

For those staying in nearby hotels like the Elk River Hotel or Days Inn, parking is often free and readily available. This makes it easy for guests to travel to and from the lake without worrying about parking logistics.

Sutton Lake was created primarily for flood control, authorized by Congress in the Flood Control Act of 1938. The dam was completed in 1961 and has significantly reduced flood damages in the area. Despite its purpose, the lake has become a popular recreational spot, attracting visitors for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

The lake's name was officially designated by Congressional action in 1967. It is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' projects, which also includes maintaining recreation facilities around the lake.

Interestingly, Sutton Lake is sometimes confused with a similarly named lake in North Carolina, which has faced environmental issues due to coal ash contamination. However, the West Virginia lake is distinct and unaffected by these issues.

One of the main attractions near Sutton Lake is the Elk River Wildlife Management Area. This vast area offers opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. The nearby town of Sutton provides historical charm and local amenities, adding to the area's appeal.

For those interested in exploring further, the Elk River Water Trail is a significant attraction. This scenic trail follows the Elk River for 77 miles, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes. The trail provides numerous access points, making it accessible for explorers of all levels.

Additionally, the Sutton Dam itself is an impressive structure, standing 210 feet high and controlling a large drainage area. It's a notable point of interest for those visiting the lake.