Bluestone Lake, West Virginia's third-largest body of water at 2,252 acres, offers a unique paddling experience with its narrow shape and river-like feel. Located in the New River Watershed, the lake is surrounded by multiple public lands, including Bluestone State Park and Bluestone Wildlife Management Area.

The lake's calm, flat water makes it suitable for various paddling activities, including canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Public boat launches are available on the Bluestone River and at Bluestone Lake. Bluestone Marina offers rentals for fishing boats, pontoon boats, kayaks, and canoes from April 15 to October 15.

Paddlers can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and diverse wildlife. The lake is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill being popular catches. Proper fishing licenses and stamps are required.

For those interested in overnight trips, camping options are available at Bluestone State Park and WMA primitive sites. The East Shore Campground offers 39 primitive sites accessible only by boat, open from mid-April through late October.

Safety considerations include wearing life jackets, which are required for all paddling activities. Paddlers should be aware that lake levels can change due to ongoing dam construction projects, potentially affecting access and safety conditions.

The area experiences typical precipitation patterns, with July being the wettest month and October the driest. Summer temperatures average in the 70s during the day and 60s at night, providing comfortable conditions for paddling.

Bluestone State Park, established in 1950, offers additional amenities such as cabins, hiking trails, and an outdoor swimming pool. The park's history is tied to the Bluestone Dam, constructed in the 1930s for flood control.

When planning a paddling trip to Bluestone Lake, check current lake levels and any closures related to the ongoing Bluestone Dam Safety Construction project.