The 10 Best Lakes In Virginia For A Relaxing Getaway

Claytor Lake

Not only can you swim, fish, and jet ski on Claytor Lake’s 4,500 acres of water, but it’s also a location ripe with education. Of course, there is the opportunity to observe the flora and fauna above, on, and under the water, but the State Park’s historic Howe House offers interactive exhibits detailing the region’s wildlife and ecology of the lake. As expected, there are plenty of trails, beaches, and waterfront cabins to enjoy, yet paddleboarding is also a highlight while on this lake in Dublin, Virginia. Try a balancing act during paddleboard yoga, or treat both you and your furry friend to a "SUP With Your Pup" session. Guided fishing tours and float trips are also a must while in town.

Douthat Lake

Although Douthat Lake doesn’t allow gas-powered boats, there are a whole host of other activities—for example, paddleboating, kayaking, and sailing—to keep visitors busy while on site. This 50-acre lake is within Douthat State Park in Millboro and is fully stocked and ripe for fishing. Lounge the day away while waiting for a pickerel, trout, crappie, or largemouth bass to catch your line, or wade in a nearby stream, as four miles of them await. You can rent paddleboards and canoes or try something different, such as a hydro bike or “funyak” to explore the waters. Bikers and hikers will also enjoy the 40 miles of hiking trails that encircle this lovely lake.

Hungry Mother Lake

It’s no wonder that the town of Marion’s body of water is popular, as the name alone evokes a sense of curiosity. Housed in Hungry Mother State Park, the namesake lake doesn’t allow gas-powered boats (electric motors are permitted), but that doesn’t mean it’s short on fun activities. Utilize the 108 acres to kayak, paddleboat, or canoe, or stay on land and traverse the over 17 miles of biking and hiking trails winding along the wooded shores.

The park also has a boat launch, campsites, a sandy beach, and a fishing pier to ensure a leisurely day of fun in the sun. You can also pack a lunch or grab a bite to eat at the park’s on-site restaurant.

John H. Kerr Reservoir

Dubbed Buggs Island by locals, the John H. Kerr Reservoir in Clarksville is the largest lake in Virginia—its 800 miles of shoreline and 50,000-acre footprint are evidence of that. Although you can plunge straight into water activities, booking a seaplane excursion allows visitors to get a lay of the land before getting wet.

Known for crappie fishing, the lake hosts state and national fishing tournaments, which draw contestants and curious observers to the water. Traditional daytime water activities abound at this lake, but also plan to head out at night to see the Clarksville Bridge illuminated with twinkling lights that reflect beautifully on the water’s surface.

Lake Anna

As one of the most popular spots to catch largemouth bass on the East Coast, Lake Anna attracts fisherfolk from all over for year-round fishing. The over 200 miles of wandering shoreline make it an ideal location for spending the day in a cove, casting your line while waiting for the perfect catch. For relaxation, rent a paddleboard, canoe, or kayak to explore.

However, for a few hours of adrenaline-pumping fun, grab a wakeboard, water skis, or tube to pull behind a boat at thrilling speeds. No matter what you choose to do at this lake in Louisa, seize the opportunity to stay at one of the local inns or overnight at the state park campground, where you can swim or claim a picnic spot.

Lake Fairfax

When planning a day out with the kids, head to Lake Fairfax in Northern Virginia. At just 18 acres, the lake is urban, meaning you can stop by for a few hours or plan a whole day of water-filled fun. Take a guided boat ride, rent a pedal boat, or fish from the shoreline (the only permitted place), as the lake is well-stocked with trout. Children of all ages will also enjoy the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, a Western-themed, watery adventure land complete with slides, flumes, wet playgrounds, and a lazy river. This lake makes a refreshing respite after exploring city life for a bit.

Lake Gaston

As you move from the beautiful mountains of North Carolina to the lush landscape of Virginia, there is a seamless transition, only noticeable if you spot a welcome sign denoting the state line. Such is also the case with Lake Gaston in Bracy, which straddles the border between the two states.

Covering over 20,000 acres with open waterways, this lake is perfect for high-energy sports, such as water skiing, yet quieter areas allow for more peaceful activities like paddleboarding, sailing, and canoeing. If you’d like to rent a pontoon or kayak, stop by Holly Grove Marina, but you can also launch your own vessel there or at the public access point

Philpott Lake

The Blue Ridge Mountains provide a lovely backdrop for those who wish to enjoy Philpott Lake in Franklin, Henry, and Patrick Counties. Boasting six beaches, nine boat launches, and eight campgrounds, this Virginia lake allows visitors to curate various experiences to suit their tastes. While exploring the water in more traditional ways, such as motor boating or swimming, is an intelligent choice, also consider getting familiar with what’s underneath the surface by snorkeling or scuba diving.

Whether spending a day or weekend in the area, make time to explore the coastline as the surrounding land is also a hotspot for biking, hiking, and observing wildlife if you enjoy more terrestrial activities.

Sherando Lake

While many of Virginia’s lakes feature miles of shoreline and vast acres of watery playland, Lyndhurst’s Sherando Lake is diminutive at best, although don’t let its size fool you. Covering just 24 acres, explorers make the most of the water and surrounding terrain to maximize the experience. Ideal for peaceful sports, such as kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding, the lake also has a beach area complete with bathhouses for a post-plunge shower.

Due to its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and two national forests, you’ll never lack stunning views. Whether you want to spend time sunning, canoeing, or wandering the trails, Sherando Lake is the place to go for a slower-paced water experience.

Smith Mountain Lake

Although the weekends can get pretty busy, renting a boat and spending the day on Smith Mountain Lake is an ideal way to while away a sunny day. Spanning three counties—Bedford, Franklin, and Pittsylvania—this body of water formed when Appalachian Power built a dam on the Roanoke River in 1963. The lake serves as a source of electricity and splash-worthy fun for locals and visitors alike.

Thrill seekers can jet ski, wakeboard, and parasail, while outdoor lovers can roam via a houseboat or lounge at a waterfront campsite. If you have a vessel, there are over a dozen launches, or you can forgo boating to swim at the state park, fish for striped bass, or check out the local golf courses.