McPolin Barn | Park City

Cheat Lake is a reservoir located in Monongalia County, West Virginia, formed by the Cheat River.

Visual Characteristics

The lake is characterized by its irregular shoreline, with steep, wooded hillsides rising directly from the water's edge. The water color varies from a deep blue to a murky green depending on water clarity and depth. The surrounding vegetation is predominantly deciduous forest, with oak, maple, and pine species.

Location & Access Logistics

Cheat Lake is situated approximately 10 miles south of Morgantown, West Virginia. Access is primarily via Interstate 68, exiting at Exit 7 (Cheat Lake). State Route 43 (also known as the Morgantown Industrial Park Road) provides direct access to the lake's northern end. Several public access points and boat launches are available along the shoreline. Parking is available at designated boat launch areas and day-use parks, though it can be limited during peak seasons. Public transportation options directly to the lake are not available; personal vehicle or taxi service is required.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Cheat Lake was created by the construction of the Lake Lynn Dam (also known as the John Amos Dam) by the West Virginia Power and Transmission Company, completed in 1925. The dam's primary purpose was hydroelectric power generation. The reservoir inundates a significant portion of the Cheat River valley, altering the natural river ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boating, including powerboating and sailing, is a primary activity. Fishing is permitted, with common species including bass, crappie, and catfish. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular. Several public parks along the shoreline offer picnic areas and access for swimming. Hiking trails are present in some adjacent areas, such as the Cheat Lake Trail system.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at major public access points and parks. Shade is provided by the surrounding trees in park areas. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available around the developed access points but can be intermittent in more remote sections of the lake. Food vendors are not consistently present directly at the lake; visitors typically bring their own provisions or dine in Morgantown.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for water-based activities is from late spring through early fall (May to October). For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer softer light. Water levels are generally stable, but specific tide information is not applicable as it is a freshwater reservoir.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical oddity is the presence of submerged structures from the original valley that were not fully cleared before the reservoir filled. Local lore sometimes speaks of unusual currents or sightings, though these are largely anecdotal.

Nearby Landmarks

• Coopers Rock State Forest (10km Northeast)
• Morgantown Municipal Airport (8km Northwest)
• WVU Coliseum (12km Northwest)
• Monongalia Arts Center (13km Northwest)
• Blackwater Falls State Park (45km Southeast - outside 5km radius, but a significant regional attraction)