We all know West Virginia has lakes. Lots and lots of lakes. But abandoned rock quarry lakes? Those aren’t quite so common. We do have them here in the Mountain State, though, including the stunning Bakerton Quarry located near Harpers Ferry.
(Please note that this lake is privately owned. DO NOT attempt to access it in person without permission!)
Limestone rock quarries have existed in Jefferson County, West Virginia since the late-1800s, including Bakerton Quarry, which was established by the Baker brothers in 1889.
Remotely Filmed/YouTube Conveniently located with access to the B&O Railroad for easy transport of the quarried limestone, the quarry was actively used for decades (among other things, limestone is used in building and for gravel, glass-making, iron-making, coal mining, and as a component of cement).
But now, the long abandoned quarry has filled with water, forming a lake of dreams that boasts underwater caves, cliffs for jumping, a strip of beach, and beautiful aqua water.
Remotely Filmed/YouTube Although I couldn’t confirm this, rumor has it that scenes from a movie were even filmed here: Patsy Cline’s “Sweet Dreams.”
But Bakerton Quarry Lake is privately owned (by a property owners association) and closed for use by the general public - so please don’t head out and try to visit it for yourself!
Remotely Filmed/YouTube Instead, enjoy exploring it courtesy of this short clip of drone footage captured by Youtuber Remotely Filmed.
Are you one of the lucky ones with permission to enjoy Bakerton Quarry in person? We have to admit that we’re a little jealous! But like we said earlier, there are lots of other lakes around the state that anyone can enjoy. Summersville Lake, for example, has beautiful blue-green water, cliffs, hiking, and even a lighthouse!
Remotely Filmed/YouTube
Conveniently located with access to the B&O Railroad for easy transport of the quarried limestone, the quarry was actively used for decades (among other things, limestone is used in building and for gravel, glass-making, iron-making, coal mining, and as a component of cement).
Although I couldn’t confirm this, rumor has it that scenes from a movie were even filmed here: Patsy Cline’s “Sweet Dreams.”
Instead, enjoy exploring it courtesy of this short clip of drone footage captured by Youtuber Remotely Filmed.
Are there any other quarry lakes in West Virginia that are open to the public? What’s your favorite lakeside destination in the Mountain State? Let us know in the comments.
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