Summary
Situated between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Virginia is a state renowned for its captivating landscapes and rich historical significance. Its history traces back to the Native Powhatan People and has played a pivotal role in the United States’ development, hence its nickname, ‘Old Dominion.’
Virginia’s diverse terrain attracts countless visitors each year, keen to explore its vineyards, mountainous regions, and coastal shores. Furthermore, numerous lakes dot the state, offering unique recreational opportunities. If you plan to visit, consider exploring these 15 premier lakes in Virginia.
1. Smith Mountain Lake; Bedford, Franklin & Pittsylvania Counties
Established in 1963 through the damming of the Roanoke River, Smith Mountain Lake exists as a substantial reservoir nestled in a valley of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The captivating scenery surrounding the lake contributes to its popularity.
This lake is Virginia’s largest waterbody entirely within state boundaries, featuring an extensive 800-kilometer shoreline, which has been considerably developed to accommodate commercial, retail, and residential properties.
Among its many attractions, recreational activities such as water skiing, wakeboarding, boating, swimming, and sailing are particularly favored. Most activities are accessible from Smith Mountain Lake State Park, which is located on the lake’s northern shore.
2. Lake Anna; Louisa, Spotsylvania and Orange Counties
As one of Virginia’s most significant freshwater lakes, Lake Anna was formed by the damming of the North Anna River. Its proximity to Washington DC, Richmond, and Charlottesville makes it an attractive recreational destination.
This 53,000-hectare lake comprises both private and public segments, with the public side being more expansive and featuring several marinas and boat ramps, particularly bustling during the summer months.
Lake Anna State Park lines the public side’s shoreline and offers visitors amenities such as picnic areas, hiking trails, a snack bar, and a beach, along with hosting a variety of summer events.
3. Kerr Lake; Mecklenburg County
Encompassing 20,000 hectares, Kerr Lake stands as the largest reservoir in Virginia, though much of it extends into neighboring North Carolina. The lake, alongside the Roanoke River, was created by the construction of the John H. Kerr Dam.
This lake, named in honor of Congressman John H. Kerr, enjoys popularity among residents of both Virginia and North Carolina. It is a favored site for tourists due to its excellent fishing opportunities for largemouth bass and striped bass.
The US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the lake and provides campsites along its shoreline as well as marinas offering water skiing, jet skiing, tubing, and yachting experiences.
4. Lake Gaston; Brunswick & Mecklenburg Counties
Positioned along the Virginia-North Carolina boundary, Lake Gaston covers approximately 8,100 hectares and features a long shoreline of 560 kilometers. Several small towns surround this lake, which supports a population exceeding 150,000 residents.
Lake Gaston attracts both residents and tourists for its superb wakeboarding, water skiing, swimming, and boating opportunities. Furthermore, it serves as a sought-after location for fishing activities.
Since the 1970s, Lake Gaston has become a favored retirement destination, in addition to being a beloved vacation spot due to its relaxed ambiance and breathtaking views.
5. Mountain Lake; Giles County
Located near Newport, Mountain Lake stands as one of only two natural lakes in Virginia. This 20-hectare lake is situated at an elevation of around 1,180 meters in the mountains.
The spectacular landscape surrounding the lake makes it a highly sought-after vacation destination. It may also be recognized as the filming location for the 1987 film ‘Dirty Dancing’.
Fishing, canoeing, and paddleboarding are common activities enjoyed on the lake, while hiking and mountain biking are available in the surrounding areas. Additionally, the Mountain Lake Biological Station is located here.
6. Claytor Lake; Pulaski County
This 1,810-hectare lake is situated along the New River, encircled by the beautiful mountains. The New River Trail State Park runs alongside a portion of the lake’s shoreline.
Claytor Lake is adorned with magnificent shale rock formations, enhancing its visual appeal. Activities such as sailing, rowing, wakeboarding, and scuba diving are available.
Claytor Lake State Park, positioned along the northern edge, offers visitors hiking, camping, and opportunities for boating, fishing, or simply relaxing on its beach.
7. South Holston Lake; Abingdon, Virginia & Bristol Counties
Spanning 3,100 hectares, South Holston Lake is shared between Virginia and Tennessee, though most of its area lies within Tennessee. Approximately 60 percent of its shoreline is bordered by the scenic Cherokee National Forest.
This lake is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts, showcasing species such as black bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill, and trophy trout.
If possible, visit on July 4th to experience the breathtaking fireworks display over the lake, along with various boat racing and fishing events held throughout the year.
8. Lake Drummond; Chesapeake & Suffolk Counties
This freshwater lake is located at the heart of the Great Dismal Swamp in southeastern Virginia. It represents one of the two natural lakes found within the state, alongside Mountain Lake.
Lake Drummond is positioned within a hilly landscape, sitting at an elevation of two meters. The 1,300-hectare lake constitutes the highest point in the Great Dismal Swamp.
Activities such as boating, canoeing, and fishing are popular here, while hiking, cycling, and birdwatching can be enjoyed in its breathtaking surroundings. Overnight stays are possible at campsites within the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
9. Leesville Lake; Pittsylvania, Bedford & Campbell Counties
Covering 1,320 hectares, Leesville Lake represents a smaller segment of Smith Mountain Lake, located in a valley within the Blue Ridge Mountains at an elevation of 190 meters.
This lake features an approximate 180-kilometer shoreline lined with lakefront homes, cabins, and a few family farms. It is a favored recreational spot for local residents and visitors alike.
Compared to the larger Smith Mountain Lake, boat traffic on Leesville Lake is significantly lighter, making it an excellent alternative for water sports enthusiasts. Additionally, it is well-known for striped bass fishing opportunities.
10. Lake Chesdin; Chesterfield, Dinwiddie & Amelia Counties
Spanning across three counties in south-central Virginia, Lake Chesdin serves as a water supply for the city of Petersburg and the surrounding areas.
This lake is abundant in largemouth bass, making it a preferred fishing location. Various other species, including crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, and walleye, can also be found here.
The lake was formed in 1968 with the construction of the George F. Brasfield Dam, strategically positioned along the Appomattox River.
11. Burke Lake; Fairfax County
Burke Lake serves as the centerpiece of Burke Lake Park. This 88-hectare freshwater lake emerged from a dam constructed along South Run.
Owned and operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority, the lake remains entirely accessible to the public. Visitors flock from across Virginia and beyond for activities such as boating, rowing, canoeing, and fishing.
For those without a boat, fishing opportunities exist along the 7.2-kilometer shoreline or from the fishing pier. Furthermore, running, jogging, and walking paths encompass a 7.53-kilometer trail within Burke Lake Park.
12. Occoquan Reservoir; Fairfax & Prince William Counties
Located just southwest of Burke Lake, Occoquan Reservoir spans 850 hectares along the Occoquan River. This reservoir serves as a primary water source for the region while also facilitating recreational activities.
Fishing is particularly popular here, with a variety of species such as largemouth bass, channel catfishing, black and white crappie, bluegill, and northern pike available. The lake also houses the prominent Occoquan Boat Club (OBC).
Two regional parks along the northern shoreline grant access to the reservoir. Fountainhead Regional Park provides options for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, whereas Sandy Run Regional Park features a rowing club.
13. Philpott Lake; Franklin, Patrick & Henry Counties
Philpott Lake, located in the mountains at an elevation nearing 300 meters, covers 1,200 hectares. The lake was formed through the damming of the Smith River.
In addition to supplying hydroelectric power to the locality, the lake offers a range of recreational activities. Popular pastimes include swimming, boating, and fishing.
Beyond water activities, parks surrounding Philpott Lake provide opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, and cycling adventures.
14. Lake Maury; Newport News
This reservoir, situated within the Mariners’ Museum in Newport News, serves as the park’s centerpiece, occupying 68 of its total 222 hectares.
Named after 19th-century oceanographer Matthew Fontain Maury, Lake Maury prohibits private boating but offers paddleboats through the museum for rowing and fishing purposes.
The northern edge of Lake Maury features a natural area that provides hiking and cycling trails, including an eight-kilometer path along the lake’s perimeter.
15. Gardy’s Millpond; Northumberland & Westmoreland Counties
The defining feature of Gardy’s Millpond is its serene environment. This 30-hectare lake, adorned with lily pads, provides picturesque views.
The shoreline is primarily forested, and the water is relatively shallow, making it an ideal location for peaceful fishing.
Many species of fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and black crappie, utilize the lily pads for protection. Additionally, the lake is home to a multitude of other fish species.
