Discover Summersville Lake’s stunning limestone cliffs and clear blue waters aboard a comfortable, pet-friendly pontoon boat. Hillbilly Holler Hopper offers a full-day lake adventure with expert guidance and plenty of easygoing fun.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the activity involves boating with minimal physical exertion
Wildlife
History
Summersville Lake was created in the early 1960s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a flood control and recreational reservoir.
Conservation
Hillbilly Holler Hopper emphasizes responsible boating practices to protect the lake’s delicate aquatic ecosystems and native wildlife.
Summersville Lake Retreat
Discover Summersville Lake’s stunning limestone cliffs and clear blue waters aboard a comfortable, pet-friendly pontoon boat. Hillbilly Holler Hopper offers a full-day lake adventure with expert guidance and plenty of easygoing fun.
Summersville Lake Retreat operates pontoon boat rentals on Summersville Lake from Mount Nebo, West Virginia. The company offers full-day, eight-hour pontoon rentals designed for families and dog owners seeking a relaxed lake experience. Each rental includes hands-on training, lake maps highlighting scenic spots, and required safety gear to support a safe day on the water.
Boats feature a power bimini top, ample storage, and an onboard radio for convenience and comfort. One specific offering, the Hillbilly Holler Hopper, is a 2022 16-foot pontoon boat equipped to carry family groups and pets. Other named rentals—Slow and Steady, Lake Licker, and Gad Dam Boat—provide similar eight-hour experiences with the same safety and convenience features.
Summersville Lake Retreat emphasizes accessible, self-guided lake exploration: guests receive instruction before departure and can use provided maps to find coves, beaches, and scenic viewpoints on Summersville Lake. Safety equipment and training are included with every rental, reflecting a focus on responsible boating.
Located near Mount Nebo, the business serves visitors to Summersville Lake looking for a full-day boating option. The rental packages are structured to support relaxed, family-oriented outings and are explicitly dog-friendly, allowing pet owners to bring their dogs on board.
For travelers seeking a straightforward, safety-focused pontoon rental during a day at Summersville Lake, Summersville Lake Retreat provides the necessary equipment, local maps, and brief training needed to enjoy a full day on the water.
Reservations cover single eight-hour rental periods and include in-person training, lake maps, and required safety gear before launch for guests.
8-Hour Rentals
8 hours
Full-day pontoon adventures
Guided Maps
Scenic spots
Maps of local highlights
Family Friendly
Family & Dogs
Bring the whole crew
Boat Features
Bimini & Radio
Power top, storage, radio
Reserve Slow and Steady, Hillbilly Holler Hopper, Lake Licker, or Gad Dam Boat for a safe, scenic day on Summersville Lake.
Bring a Tow Vehicle with Class II Hitch
A Class II 2" receiver hitch is necessary to tow the pontoon about two miles to the launch point, so ensure your vehicle is equipped accordingly.
Wear Sun Protection
The boat’s power bimini top offers shade, but sunscreen and hats are recommended for extended sun exposure on the water.
Limit Dogs to Two Per Boat
Hillbilly Holler Hopper welcomes pets but limits dogs to two to ensure a comfortable environment for all guests.
Arrive with Your Driver’s License
You must present a valid driver’s license to receive your 24-hour temporary boater safety certification and start the rental.
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from the sun’s reflection off the water for greater comfort and visibility.
summer
Waterproof Cooler
Keep drinks and snacks cold throughout your day on the lake.
summer
Light Jacket
Provides warmth during cooler morning or evening temperatures on the water.
spring
Non-slip Boat Shoes
Ensure safety and comfort when moving on the boat’s deck.