Boating is a fun water activity at Virginia State Parks, Fishing is accessible year-round at most of our parks (winterat Smith Mountain Lake State Park). The best fishing is in the upper portion of the river above the community of Rawley Springs, where the river gradually rolls down from the Allegheny Mountains along the VA/WV state line. The boat launch at Fairy Stone State Park is accessed from the road coming into the park (there is a fee to launch even though you aren't going through the park gate), Boat launch near marina at Occoneechee State Park on theKerr Reservoir/Buggs Island Lake. List of lakes of Virginia This is a list of lakes in the Commonwealth of Virginia in the United States. Explore the lush natural beauty of the Shenandoah River, which winds its way through quaint towns and along the famous Shenandoah National Park. We want to hear about your favorites, as always, so be sure to let us know in the comments below! And a list of Virginia's major lake and river water features by county. Lake Gaston is situated in southern Virginia, spanning about 35 miles (a large portion of which stretches across the border into North Carolina). (SOUNDBITE OF CREAKING) HAUSMAN: His largest job was here in Norfolk Harbor - a twin-masted sailboat stuck in the mud. Boat rentals vary across the state from row boats, kayaksand paddle boats to pontoons and ski boats on larger bodies of water, Rent a sailboat or take a sailing lesson at Leesylvania State Park. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Fishing is the most popular thing to do here, as there are plenty of largemouth bass, channel fish, black and white crappie, bluegill and northern pike, amongst other species. Check out this gorgeous. // 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station; 703-323-6600; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/burke-lake, Silver Lake Park To learn about park offerings and overnight accommodations, email, Best Boating Access in Virginia - State Parks Blogs, Virginia Boating Safety Education Requirement, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. The park provides great access to the upper portion of the river, while lower sections are accessible throughRapidan Wildlife Management Area. Required fields are marked *. Almost certainly the most famous trout stream in Virginia, Mossy Creek meanders through the picturesque farmlands of the Shenandoah Valley in Augusta County. Fishing is catch-and-release only with single-hook artificial lures. Its 800 kilometre shoreline has been highly developed with commercial, retail and residential buildings. The lake itself is popular for kayaking and canoeing, and rentals are available in the state park. Fountainhead Regional Park also offers hiking, cycling and horseback riding, while Sandy Run Regional Park features a rowing club. Virginia's third largest lake,Lake Annawelcomes you to enjoy your favorite watersport pleasure. After donning your life vest, and ashort safety briefingclimb aboard to see the flora and fauna around the lake as narrated by a park ranger. From Holly Grove Marina, you can launch your own boat or rent a pontoon boat or kayak. The Smith River is mostly known for the tailwater fishery below the Philpott Dam, which impounds Philpott Lake. Its a lot of fun to fish with dry flies. In fact, there are several lazy rivers where you can go tubing in Virginia for the perfect afternoon of rest and relaxation. The tiny Little River, just downstream from Claytor Dam, also was blocked to generate one megawatt of electricity for the City of Radford. Example: This is a freshwater trail that is perfect to paddle by kayak or canoe over one hundred miles of navigable river, leading to 1,200 miles of beautiful lake shoreline. Nymphing is the most prevalent tactic in the Jackson Tailwater, and theres plenty of overhead casting room in most areas, so a 9-foot 5 or 6 weight rod is appropriate. Many of the businesses and restaurants lining the lake offer docks for convenience. Access is available withinGeorge Washington National Forest. Still, it is a great place to go fishing, especially if you want a quiet spot to do it in. It is also home to the Mountain Lake Biological Station. As . Rowboats, paddleboats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks and canoes may be rented during the summer season. A smaller upper lake that's also part of the recreation area is used primarily for fishing. Some excellent places to go tubing in Virginia include: Summertime is all about finding ways to stay cool and beat the heat. In addition to being an outstanding bass and crappie lake, and even one of Virginia's better walleye fishing lakes, the reservoir also offers an abundance of catfish. It's 24 acres of great swimming and fishing. Visitors will find a sandy beach (with lifeguards Memorial Day to Labor Day) and a pier with motorboat, rowboat, paddleboat, stand-up paddleboard, canoe and kayak rentals at this state park. The lake is ideal for swimming, boating, paddlesports, hiking and picnicking while surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Boating, wakeboarding, water skiing, kayaking, canoeing are all popular recreational water activities travelers can enjoy at this lake. One of Virginias largest freshwater lakes, Lake Anna was built by the damming of the North Anna River. Enjoy every watersport imaginable at Buggs Island Lake - Virginia's largest lake and the location of the world record blue, Thirteen cabins, three lodges and a multitude of camping options await you at Claytor Lake State Park in Dublin. The water chemistry supports a diverse assortment of mayflies, caddis flies and some stoneflies. Buchanan Swinging Bridge over the James River. Floating the New is truly a step back in time, as it is the second oldest river in the world. If youre looking for some outdoor activities, some options are Elizabeth River, Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours at Chesapeake Bay, and much more! It is nestled in a valley within the Blue Ridge Mountains at an elevation of 190 metres. And forget pitching a tent, this all-seasons park also offers rental cabins for a bit of glamping. Newly stocked fish may readily strike spinners and Trout Magnet lures, but catching a trophy generally requires a subtle approach. The James River winds from west to east in Virginia, cutting through the Blue Ridge Mountains, southern Shenandoah Valley, and the, For the couples that love a little adventure in their vacations, a kayaking tour in Virginia may be the perfect getaway. Standard attractor flies like Adams and Stimulators usually do a good job tempting the native brook trout, and a Tan Caddis pattern is also a good option. Bask in views of Pohick Bay at this Lorton haven for all things outdoors. The stream is mostly narrow, and overhead growth is substantial. Mossy Creek can sometimes be a frustrating place to fish. Virginia outdoor recreation professionals use the term "water trails" and "blueways" synonymously. Philpott Lakeis 3,000 acres, with 100 miles of shoreline, nine boat launches, eight campgrounds, and six beaches inviting you to this lake that calls two counties home. These smaller rivers and streams also provide habitats for a wide variety of fish and wildlife where paddlers can get a bird's eye view of mother nature. Tucked away in the southwesternmost corner of Virginia near Damascus, Whitetop Laurel Creek is one of the states most beautiful and unique trout streams. The lake is located within Hungry Mother State Park in Smyth County, in the western part of the state. The state park's sandy beach area is family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Occoquan Reservoir is on the southern border of Fairfax County and serves as a major source of drinking water for northern Virginia. From fishing and hiking to kayak tours and golfing, Pohick Bay can easily make for a day or weekend of fun in the natural world. There's so much to explore when you visit this, Lake Anna Drive, Lake Anna Dr, Virginia 23024, USA, One of only two natural lakes in Virginia, Lake Drummond is part of the historic Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge. // Oct. 12 and Nov. 9; $28; ages 5-12, Lake Fairfax Park Virginia With thousands of miles of rivers, lakes and streams, Virginia offers endless recreational opportunities for water lovers. The lake is also home to a major boating club; Occoquan Boat Club (OBC). Lake Keokee Lake Keokee is a 92 acre lake, surrounded by a lovely wooded area, may be used for fishing or boating. The ability to make long, accurate casts is also essential. New River James River Rappahannock River Shenandoah River (North & South Forks) Chickahominy River Holston River (North Fork) Catch More Bass Best Bass Lakes in Virginia Lake Anna One of Virginia's most reliable largemouth lakes, 9,600-acre Lake Anna has long enjoyed a reputation as both a numbers lake and a trophy fishery. Those that dont have a boat can go fishing from the 7.2 kilometre fishing shoreline or the fishing pier. A few parks feature third party concessionaire who offer additional boat activities like sailboats at Leesylvania State Park: Guests may rent canoes, tandem kayaks and stand-up paddle boards at the Breakwater Marina Store Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Boats with gasoline engines can be used at the Philpott Reservoir, 20 minutes from the park. There is excellent bank fishing access near the dam. During normal flows, the Dry River is easy to wade, and the width of the banks makes fly casting relatively easy as well. Twenty miles south of Lexington in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 7-acre Cave Mountain Lake is a popular recreation area for families in the warm-weather months with its sandy beach. Boat traffic on Lake Leesville is much lower than the larger Smith Mountain Lake, making it a great alternative for water sports. The Gathright Dam releases a steady stream of cool water from the lake, and as a result, the tailwater section seldom rises above the mid-60s, even in summer. 60 per cent of its shoreline is bordered by the Cherokee National Forest, boasting some fantastic scenery. Though primarily stocked fishbrowns in Mossy Creek are known to successfully reproduce only occasionallythese trout are cunning. The hatchery itself provides some of the easiest access and parking. The public section of the lake borders Lake Anna State Park, where visitors flock for swimming, boating, fishing and hiking. The Lake Maury Natural Area is at the north end of the lake, offering hiking and cycling. For boating access sites and information, see the DGIF website here. Harrison Lake; . While you're visiting, you can also enjoy swimming and hiking at this. The scenery around the lake is jaw-dropping, making it a popular destination. Bear Creek Lake sits at the center of Bear Creek Lake State Park in central Virginia, about 55 miles west of Richmond. Experience 230 acres of nature, complete with a 23-acre lake, at this park in Haymarket. The Delayed Harvest portion of the river has the classic riffles, pools and runs of a freestone stream, and is stocked generously. Theres always a chance a group will come roaring up the stream bed while youre trying to fish. It has all the family favorites for a day of fun on the water, and many services and restaurants accessible by water for whatever you may need. Both the lake and the dam sit along the Appomattox River. Crockett Park Hidden Valley Lake; South Holston Reservoir; Westmoreland. Learn more about the mysterious Mountain Lake in Virginia and why, after so many years, it's spontaneously filling up with more water. Some may also recognise it as being the set for the 1987 film Dirty Dancing. Cabins, lodges and campsites are available within the state park. Chickahominy Lake. Smith Mountain Lake State ParkFriend's Group (pontoon pictured above) held fundraising events to purchase a pontoon boat for park programs out on the water. Atlantic Ocean north of Chesapeake Bay Cockle Creek Machipongo River Chesapeake Bay Pocomoke River From the wooded shoreline, visitors can launch a recreational boat, a stand-up paddleboard, a kayak or a canoe for a fun day on the water. A variety of lodging, from budget to upscale, is available in Newport News, including the Newport News Marriott at City Center. The North Fork Moormans River is a small river that lies mostly within the boundaries of Shenandoah National Park. The recreational activities are one of its biggest draws, with water skiing, wakeboarding, boating, swimming and sailing being popular. The marina also features a tackle store and a deli serving breakfast and sandwiches. Exploring the Lakes, Creeks, and Rivers of Southwest Virginia - Virginia's Mountain Playground Search Home For Visitors Appalachian Trail Arts Cascade Falls Castle Rock Golf Dismal Falls The Gathright Dam and Lake Moomaw Visitor Center on the southeast corner of the lake is a good spot to learn more about recreational opportunities in the area, including fishing (stocked trout are plentiful), hiking, boating and camping. Each park that offers a boat launchalso has specific guidelines, like the 168-acre Fairy Stone lake above. Anglers catch some truly massive brown trout here, and theyre known for their spectacular coloration. Blue Winged Olives, Sulphurs, Quill Gordons, and a few other typical hatches happen here. Some are nestled in mountains and surrounded by wooded forest, while others are found not far from city centers, but all of Virginia's lakes provide scenic spots for rest and reflection. Dan River. Leesville Lake boasts a 180 kilometre shoreline that is home to lakefront houses, cabins and a few family farms. Working slowly upstream is the best approach. Its a classic limestone spring creek, with slow to moderate flows and great water quality. In addition to water-based activities, Philpott Lakes surrounding parks offer hiking, horseback riding and cycling. Or seeing it return with a splash of its tail to fight another day? Spend some time outdoors in Reston at this popular lakefront park, where overnight camping availability allows you to take full advantage of boating, birdwatching, fishing and more. It is also a popular spot for fishing. of Forestry offers this summer program for teachers, a ranger guided paddle along Taskinas Creek atYork River State Park. Rent paddle boats, take a boat tour or spend the weekend camping - you'll never run out of things to do at this awesome park in northern Virginia. The lake features a paved boat launching ramp, four picnic units with tables and grills, and a 3.7 mile lakeshore loop trail that provides access for shore fishing and wildlife walking. Fishing, canoeing and paddle boarding are popular activities enjoyed on the lake, while hiking and mountain biking are offered in its surrounding area. The farther up you go, the better the fishing seems to get. Simply put, there is no shortage of outdoor activities in Virginia. Some sections of the Jackson River are stocked annually. The biggest fish tend to hide below undercut banks and in the shade of the abundant beds of swaying watercress and elodea that give the stream its name. There are tiny hydropower lakes as well. The 88 hectare freshwater lake was formed by the building of a dam along South Run. Don't forget your fishing license! Interestingly, Lake Anna has a public and a private side. Blue-winged Olives, Blue Quill, Quill Gordon, March Browns, and Tricos are some of the most prevalent mayfly hatches, and the river also supports sedges (Cinnamon, Green and Autumn Brown) and stoneflies. It is also a favourite vacation spot thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and stunning scenery. Flowing from Virginia into North Carolina, the Smith River is a tributary of the Dan River that offers varied fishing opportunities. This 1,810 hectare lake sits along the New River within the slopes of the mountains. Skidmore Fork feeds the lake. Much of the tailwater section is made up of long pools interspersed with riffles. Mossy Creek is known primarily as dry fly water. Provost needed a crew of six, a barge and crane to dismantle it. Downsizing your flies is a good call, unless youre really trying to select for the biggest brown trout. These two rivers meet in Port Republic to form the South Fork Shenandoah River. Lake Gastonstraddles Virginia and North Carolina and at 20,000 acres, you can see why. Lake Drummond sits within the hills at an elevation of two metres. The state park features 3 lodges, 15 cabins, and a full-service marina with slips, supplies, fuel, and boat rentals. It also produces numerous trophy trout. How to attribute? The 25-acre spring-fed lake is part of the developed Sherando Lake Recreation Area, with opportunities for picnicking, boating, hiking, swimming from a sandy beach and fishing. In general, rivers in Virginia flow into the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. Map of Virginia Lakes, Rivers, Streams and Water Features. State law requires a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device for each person on board. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the average temperature in June that year was 76.2 degrees Fahrenheit.Virginia's average June temperature is 5.3 degrees cooler. Heres a link to a listing of Virginia Trout Heritage Waters. Bring some grasshopper, beetle and ant flies that time of year. The river also supports baitfish including sculpins, as well as a variety of aquatic insects and crustaceans. Note that there are special regulations on the Rapidan, including catch-and-release fishing in recommended sections. In the summer, fees and trout stocking are suspended. Both of these, Scuba diving is the big draw for this lake. Grab your boat shoes and sunscreen and start exploring these beautiful Virginia lakes and parks. In summer, the carousel and train rides are a hit among tots. 15 Best Trout Fishing Rivers and Lakes in Virginia, listing of Virginia Trout Heritage Waters, better smallmouth bass fishing found outside of Virginias famous bronzeback rivers, our full guide to favorite trout fishing techniques and tips. Brook trout feed within 10 feet of the surface in spring and fall, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees. Created in 1963 by the impounding of the Roanoke River, Smith Mountain Lake is a large reservoir that sits in a valley in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Travelers can enjoy fishing, boating and kayaking at Virginia's various lakes, in addition to more laid-back pursuits like simply admiring the scenic setting on a nature walk. Little Winter Stoneflies are first in the year, usually hatching in January. South Holston Lake is a great spot to go fishing for black bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill and walleye. The nearest hotel and camping accommodations are about 15 miles east in Big Stone Gap. You might nab the occasional smallmouth bass this way too. Use the airline's app or make an international call if your flight has been canceled. Safety first when it comes to boating at Virginia State Parks, All state boating and safety regulations must be followed when using our facilities at a Virginia State Park. The 218-acre lake is popular among anglers for its variety of fish: largemouth bass, muskellunge, walleye, bluegill, white perch and sunfish are just a few of the many types of fish you can catch here. Short rods work best; the trees claim their share of flies. Camping available. While many lakes lie solely in Virginia, some of them also occupy other states like North Carolina and Tennessee. No gas-powered boats are allowed on the lake, but there is a boat ramp for smaller craft. When you book a hotel or tour that we link to, we may earn a commission. Pretty white sand awaits you atLake Arrowhead Beach, 34-acre lake beach just below Skyline Drive. Camping And Lodging Along The Blue Ridge Parkway, George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Micro-Brasseries et Cidreries Artisanales, Spend a History-Packed Weekend in Fredericksburg, Abingdon: Your Gateway to Southwest Virginia, Adventures for Couples: Kayak Tours in Virginia, 20 Virginia Flatwater Paddling Destinations, Virginias Best Guided Paddling and Biking Adventures, Great Places for Whitewater Kayaking in Virginia, Best Overnight Paddling Adventures in Virginia. Spend the day (or week!) The rapids range from Class 3 to 5 and some drop 25 . Roanoke River, James River, and New River are the three longest rivers in Virginia. Catchable rainbow and brown trout are stocked several times between October and May each year. This 1,230-acre water supply reservoir supports a lot of black crappies measuring 11 inches and up. Fishing is also welcome at this 7-acre lake. Thirty parks offer fishing from the shore; six offer pier fishing. These Virginia lakes, found all over the state, should make that list without a doubt. A 5-mile walking trail circles the lake. Otherwise, Homewood Suites by Hilton Reston is just outside the park. Access is available throughSwitzer Lake Recreation Area. Brookies measuring 12 to 16 inches are common, and individuals up to 3 pounds have been confirmed. The river offers ample populations of wild brown and rainbow trout. The lake hosts many state and national fishing . Farther east on Virginia's coastline, the tidal creeks and estuaries near the Chesapeake Bay are becoming increasingly popular with sea kayakers. Buller Hatchery Road crisscrosses the stream, and a bit of hiking and wading will get you to the best spots. (Getty Images). Most lakes you happen upon in Virginia are man-made, with the exception of two natural lakes in Virginia. One place to enjoy recreation facilities is Fountainhead Regional Park in Fairfax Station. The lower Rapidan River broadens out significantly and becomes a major waterway by the time it reaches the Rappahannock. Read more about the bestVirginia lakes below. U.S. Route 33 runs roughly parallel to its banks, providing plenty of pull-offs for easy access. Swimming, boating and fishing are all popular things enjoyed on the lake. An abundance of insects hatch here, including various species that are collectively referred to as Blue Winged Olives from February to June and September to November. Pull in your camper or pitch a tent to stay longer. Concessions and a lifeguard are on-site, as are picnic accommodations. The program's success is due to its many partners. Buy Printed Map. // 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston; 703-471-5414; fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-fairfax, Burke Lake Park The state park also has horseback riding, biking and hiking trails, as well as an archery range. Huge open waters are perfect for boating, skiing and other water sports. Stretching 17 miles across Louisa and Spotsylvania counties, as well as a small slice of Orange County in the northeastern part of the state, Lake Anna is located about 80 miles south of Washington, D.C. The lake is 100 per cent public, being owned and run by the Fairfax County Park Authority. As a general rule, if you dont see insects hatching or trout rising, nymphing is more effective. Virginia also has a wide variety of fishing opportunities, from fishing in the Chesapeake Bay and Virginia Beach to fly fishing in one of its panoramic rivers. Its a beautiful river, and is also a freestone stream in the truest sense. Lake Keokeeis a 92 acre lake, surrounded by a lovely wooded area, may be used for fishing or boating. Youre likely to encounter stocked rainbows and brookies here that have come up from the put-and-take water farther downriver. You Can Explore A Stunning Reservoir Hiding In The Virginia Mountains By Paddle, Few People Know Theres A Natural Wonder Hiding In This Tiny Virginia Town, Nestled In The Virginia Mountains, Lake Moomaw Has Some Of The Clearest Water In Virginia, The Most Remote Lake In Virginia Is Also The Most Peaceful, This Summer Fair Is Nothing Short Of Pure Virginia Fun, 7 Lazy Rivers In Virginia That Are Ideal For Tubing On A Summers Day, These 10 Virginia Parks Also Have Beaches And Youll Want To Visit, If You Didnt Know About These 11 Swimming Holes In Virginia, Theyre A Must Visit, it's possible to go scuba diving in Virginia, VA Department of Conservation and Recreation / flickr, US Fish and Wildlife Service Northeast Region / flickr, beautiful destination in southwestern Virginia. Fishing is excellent, and the New River teems with almost every variety of freshwater game fish found in Virginia, such as rock bass, striped bass, yellow perch, bluegill and flathead catfish. Fishing is more challenging in this part of the stream, but its a wilder experience that gets you farther from the crowds. Travelers can enjoy fishing, boating and kayaking at Virginia's various lakes, in addition to more laid-back pursuits like simply admiring the scenic setting on a nature walk. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers operates a visitor center at the north end of Philpott Dam Road not far from Philpott Marina. There is also an eight kilometre trail that runs along the lakes shoreline. An angler landed a state-record brown trout weighing nearly 15 pounds here in 1990. About four miles of Mossy Creek are open to the public, and most of that section flows through open meadows with grassy banks and occasional overhead trees. TheUpper James River Water Trailwinds beautifully through the scenic Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. Thirty parks offer fishing from the shore; six offer pier fishing. Electric motors are allowed on the lake; gas-powered boats are prohibited here. The town of Dublin is home to moderately priced hotels, including the Holiday Inn Express Dublin, just 5 miles away. View listing photos, review sales history, and use our detailed real estate filters to find the perfect place. Often cited as one of the best trout streams in the South, the Jackson River flows through a little over 96 miles of Virginia before feeding the James River. But many streams stay cool enough for year-round fishing, and Virginias statewide trout season lasts all year. Canoe, kayak and pedal boat rentals are available through Oct. 14. Trout often suspend at 15 to 20 feet, but may also feed on the surface. Parks access Virginia's most popular waterways, including Buggs Island Lake, Claytor Lake, the Chesapeake Bay, the James River, Lake Anna, the Potomac River, the Rappahannock River, Smith Mountain Lake and the York River. A tent to stay longer the Philpott dam, which winds its way through towns... 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