Lakes in Virginia

1. Briery Creek Lake

• Where is Briery Creek Lake located?
  • Located just south of Farmville in Prince Edward County, Virginia, Briery Creek Lake is a fantastic fishing and recreation destination in Central Virginia.
• How was Briery Creek Lake created?
  • The lake was formed by the impoundment of Briery Creek and Little Briery Creek. The reservoir was completed in 1986, with timber and brush left in place to create an incredible fish habitat that continues to thrive today.
• What types of fish can be caught at Briery Creek Lake?
  • Anglers can catch a large variety of fish, including:
    • Channel catfish
    • Crappie
    • Bluegill
    • Monster-sized largemouth bass
    • Redear sunfish
• What makes Briery Creek Lake a great recreational spot?
  • Set within the Briery Creek Wildlife Management Area, the reservoir is surrounded by the rolling hills of Piedmont. It is very accessible, making it a favorite spot for enjoying water-based sports and picnics on warm summer days.

Briery Creek Wildlife Management Area, Farmville, Prince Edward County, Central Virginia, Map

2. Carvins Cove Lake

• Where is Carvins Cove Lake located?
  • Nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains, Carvins Cove Lake is the primary water source for the city of Roanoke and a popular destination for both land and water-based recreation.
• What makes Carvins Cove Lake special?
  • Carvins Cove Reservoir is one of Virginia’s most precious natural treasures, located within Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, which is the second-largest city park in the United States.
• How was Carvins Cove Lake created?
  • The lake was formed by the damming of Carvin's Creek, creating a reservoir that now supports both water supply and recreation.
• What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy at Carvins Cove Lake?
  • The lake and surrounding area offer a wide variety of outdoor activities, including:
    • Hiking
    • Mountain biking
    • Horseback riding
    • Picnicking
    • Boating
    • Fishing
    • Kayaking
    • Waterskiing
• Is there wildlife at Carvins Cove Lake?
  • Yes! The surrounding park is home to an abundance of birds and wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature viewing.

Carvins Cove Lake, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve: Carvins Cove Rd, Salem, VA 24153, Phone: 540-853-2236

3. Chickahominy Lake

• What is Chickahominy Lake?
  • Fed by the fertile waters of the Chickahominy River, Chickahominy Lake is a beautiful tree-lined reservoir with fish-filled waters that attract birdwatchers, photographers, and fishers throughout the year.
• What makes Chickahominy Lake special?
  • The lake, created in 1943, is known for its stunning scenery and has been a destination for visitors who come to soak up the natural beauty and enjoy various recreational activities.
• Where is Chickahominy Lake located?
  • The lake is located in the Tidewater and Hampton Roads area of Virginia, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists.
• What was Chickahominy Lake originally built for?
  • Initially, the lake was built to provide water for military bases during wartime, but today, it serves as the water supply for the Newport News Waterworks.
• What recreational activities are available at Chickahominy Lake?
  • The lake features an excellent fishery and is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Chickahominy Lake, Chickahominy River, Tidewater and Hampton Roads area of Virginia

4. Claytor Lake

• Where is Claytor Lake located?
  • Set within southwestern Virginia's Blue Ridge Highlands region, Claytor Lake is a 4,475-acre impoundment of the New River that stretches over 21 miles in Pulaski County.
• How was Claytor Lake created?
  • The lake was created in 1939 by the Appalachian Power Company for hydroelectric power, flood control, and recreation. It was named after W. Graham Claytor, a former mayor of Roanoke.
• What makes Claytor Lake a popular destination?
  • The lake has a convenient location near Interstate 81 and shares its shores with the peaceful 475-acre Claytor Lake State Park. It offers a beautiful setting for all types of recreational activities.
• What activities can visitors enjoy at Claytor Lake?
  • The lake and state park provide opportunities for:
    • Hiking
    • Mountain biking
    • Boating
    • Fishing
    • Kayaking
• Is there wildlife at Claytor Lake?
  • Yes! The park’s well-maintained landscapes feature an abundance of fauna and flora, making it an excellent spot for bird and wildlife watching.

Claytor Lake State Park: Ben H. Bolen Drive, Dublin, VA 24084, Phone: 540-643-2500, website, Map

5. Douthat Lake

• Where is Douthat Lake located?
  • Surrounded by the beautiful Allegheny Mountains in Virginia’s 4,545-acre Douthat State Park, Douthat Lake (pronounced “DOW-thut”) is a 50-acre reservoir accessible year-round for a variety of recreational activities.
• What recreational activities are available at Douthat Lake?
  • Visitors can enjoy a range of land and water-based activities, including:
    • Camping
    • Cabin rentals
    • Hiking
    • Mountain biking
    • Horseback riding
    • Boating
    • Fishing
    • Water-biking
    • Water skiing
• Does Douthat Lake have a swimming area?
  • Yes! The lake features a large swimming beach with protected swimming areas, a great spot for sunbathing, and boat rentals.
• What fishing opportunities are available at Douthat Lake?
  • Douthat State Park provides boat ramps for non-motorized boats and two fishing piers, offering anglers the chance to catch:
    • Brook trout
    • Brown trout
    • Rainbow trout
    • Black crappie
    • Channel catfish
    • Chain pickerel (a prized species)

Douthat Lake, Douthat State Park: 14239 Douthat State Park Rd, Millboro, VA 24460, Phone: 540-862-8100

6. Fairy Stone Lake

• What is Fairy Stone Lake?
  • Named for the rare staurolite diamond-shaped crystals known as “fairy stones” that are found in the lake, Fairy Stone Lake is a 168-acre lake set within the 4,741-acre Fairy Stone State Park.
• How was Fairy Stone Lake created?
  • The lake was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The Fairy Stone Lake Dam spills over into Philpott Lake, providing both recreational and environmental benefits.
• What recreational activities are available at Fairy Stone Lake?
  • The lake offers a wealth of land and water-based activities, including:
    • Hiking and mountain biking trails
    • Picnic areas
    • Swimming beaches
    • Group camping areas
    • Equestrian camping
    • Ranger-led programs for all ages
• Is Fairy Stone Lake a good fishing destination?
  • Yes! The lake is a popular fishing spot, home to an abundance of:
    • Bluegill
    • Black crappie
    • Largemouth bass
    • Redear sunfish
• Where is Fairy Stone Lake located?
  • Fairy Stone Lake is situated near the Blue Ridge Parkway in Patrick County and is close to the towns of Floyd, Meadows of Dan, Rocky Mount, and Stuart.

Fairy Stone Lake, 967 Fairystone Lake Drive, Stuart, VA 24171, Phone: 276-930-2424

7. Germantown Lake

• Where is Germantown Lake located?
  • Tucked away in the gentle hills and woodlands of C. M. Crockett Park, Germantown Lake is a 109-acre lake in Fauquier County that offers a variety of watersports from dawn to dusk.
• How was Germantown Lake created?
  • The lake was created in 1985 by damming Licking Run to help control flooding in the area.
• What types of fish can be found in Germantown Lake?
  • The reservoir is renowned for its large fish populations, attracting anglers looking to catch:
    • Channel catfish
    • Bluegill
    • Crappie
    • Largemouth bass
• What boating restrictions are in place at Germantown Lake?
  • Only electric motor boats are allowed on the lake. There are shore access points and boat ramps for launching watercraft.
• Are there accommodations near Germantown Lake?
  • The lake is located about seven miles from the Washington, D.C. suburb of Warrenton in Midland. While there are no vacation rentals directly around the lake, overnight visitors can stay in Warrenton.

C. M. Crockett Park: 10066 Rogues Rd, Midland, VA 22728, Phone: 540-422-8870, website, Map

8. Hungry Mother Lake

• Where is Hungry Mother Lake located?
  • Set within the beautiful 2,180-acre Hungry Mother State Park in Smyth County, Hungry Mother Lake is a 108-acre lake surrounded by magnificent mountain vistas, making it a popular recreational attraction.
• Why is Hungry Mother Lake named as such?
  • The lake is named after an ancient Native American legend, adding to its mystique and historical significance.
• What outdoor activities are available at Hungry Mother Lake?
  • The lake boasts nearly 20 miles of trails for:
    • Hiking
    • Biking
    • Walking
    • Bird-viewing platforms overlooking the lake
• What water activities can visitors enjoy?
  • The lake offers a variety of water activities, including:
    • Fishing
    • Boating (electric only)
    • Swimming
    • Kayaking
    • Canoeing
• What kind of fish can be found in Hungry Mother Lake?
  • Fishing is a favorite pastime at the lake, which is well stocked with:
    • Channel catfish
    • Crappies
    • Spotted and smallmouth bass
    • Largemouth bass
    • Sunfish
    • Walleyes
    • Trophy muskies

Hungry Mother Lake, 2854 Park Blvd, Marion, Virginia 24354, Phone: 276-781-7400

9. John W. Flannagan Reservoir

• Where is the John W. Flannagan Reservoir located?
  • Located in Dickenson County in Virginia’s Appalachia region, the John W. Flannagan Reservoir is a 1,145-acre lake named after Congressman John Williams Flannagan, Jr..
• When was the John W. Flannagan Reservoir built?
  • The lake was completed in 1964 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• What is the primary purpose of the reservoir?
  • The reservoir provides drinking water and flood protection for areas downstream of the Pound River and Big Sandy River.
• What recreational activities are available at John W. Flannagan Reservoir?
  • Although originally built for flood control, the lake offers a variety of recreational activities, with fishing being the most popular.
• What types of fish can be found in the reservoir?
  • The deep, calm waters are stocked with a variety of sport fish species, including:
    • Channel and flathead catfish
    • Bluegill and crappie
    • Carp and musky
    • Largemouth bass
    • Smallmouth bass
    • Hybrid striped bass

John W. Flannagan Reservoir, Dickenson County, Appalachia Region

10. Kerr Lake / John H. Kerr Reservoir

• What is Kerr Lake?
  • Kerr Lake, also known as the John H. Kerr Reservoir, is a 48,900-acre body of water that straddles the Virginia-North Carolina border. It is a recreational wonderland offering a wide range of outdoor activities.
• What recreational activities are available at Kerr Lake?
  • Visitors to Kerr Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including:
    • Boating
    • Fishing
    • Camping
    • Sailing
    • Skiing
    • Swimming
• How was Kerr Lake created?
  • The lake was formed by the impoundment of the Roanoke and Dan Rivers in 1952 for flood control and the generation of hydroelectric power.
• Why is Kerr Lake popular?
  • The lake attracts both locals and visitors who come to enjoy its beautiful scenic surroundings and cold deep waters, perfect for water sports and relaxation.
• What was Kerr Lake originally called?
  • The lake was originally named Buggs Island Lake, after an island in the Roanoke River just below the dam.
• Where is the Kerr Lake Dam located?
  • The dam is named after U.S. Senator John H. Kerr from North Carolina and is located about 110 miles from Richmond, Virginia.