Nicholas County, West Virginia
Nicholas County sits in the heart of West Virginia and is best known for its incredible rivers and outdoor adventures. The Gauley River is a major whitewater rafting destination, drawing thrill-seekers from around the country each fall during the famous “Gauley Season.”
Summersville Lake is another popular attraction, with clear blue water surrounded by impressive sandstone cliffs. Summersville, the county seat, is often called the “Gateway to the Gauley” and serves as a convenient base for exploring the area’s natural beauty.
There’s much more to Nicholas County than water sports. Richwood offers a charming downtown and a unique history as the former “Ramp Capital of the World.” Coal mining and timber also played major roles in shaping the county, and reminders of those industries can still be found throughout the region. With rugged scenery and plenty of adventure, Nicholas County has something for everyone.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Nicholas County |
| County Seat | Summersville |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Summersville, Richwood, Craigsville, Nettie, Birch River |
| Interstates and Highways | US-19, WV-20, WV-39 |
| Etymology | Named after Wilson Cary Nicholas, a Virginia politician and governor |
| FIPS Code | 54-067 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 654 sq mi (Land: 648 sq mi; Water: 6 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 38.2882° N, 80.8356° W |
| Major Landmarks | Summersville Lake, Gauley River National Recreation Area, Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Braxton County (North), Webster County (Northeast), Greenbrier County (Southeast), Fayette County (Southwest), Clay County (Northwest), Kanawha County (West) |
| Population | Approximately 24,000 |
