Picking the best lake in Virginia for you can be a difficult decision. There are many lakes to choose from, and each one has its own unique features which make it special.
Here are some of the best lakes in Virginia that offer great scenery, recreational opportunities, or both!
Fortunately for you, we’ve assembled the ultimate catalog of lakes in the state to help you plan your next Virginia lake vacation. Our listings will help you plan your next vacation by helping you find:
- The best Virginia lakes for swimming. On a hot summer day you can take the family to enjoy a sandy beach and some serious sunshine at one of Virginia’s many beautiful lakes with public beaches.
- The best lakes for boating in Virginia. You want to catch some fish? Oh baby, Virginia’s not just for lovers, it’s also for fishermen. You can launch your boat or find a fishing pier and toss in a line and catch yourself a trophy fish on your next getaway. Take the kids or grab your buddies and make a weekend of it!
- A watersports weekend. Take out your jet ski or speed boat and head out for some water skiing or wakeboarding on one of Virginia’s freshwater lakes.
Find Virginia Lakes Near You
Virginia has a lot of popular lakes like Philpott Lake and Lake Gaston, but we thought we’d point out a few other lakes that might not be top of mind for some travelers. If you’re making plans for a lake getaway, check out some of our favorites from the list below.
The best lakes to visit in Virginia
Lake Anna
Lake Anna is best known for having many miles of waterfront property, two marinas, and three public beach areas. It’s also the best spot in Virginia to go fishing because it has an abundance of game fish like crappie, bass, catfish, bluegill, and trout (however local fishing rules dictate that only catch-and-release methods are permitted). Other fun things you can do at Lake Anna include paddle boating on its peaceful waters near the lakelands golf course; camping overnight or spending a weekend at one of Lake Anna State Park’s cabins; swimming at one of Lake Anna State Park’s five beaches; enjoying the lakefront restaurants’ food while surrounded by beautiful views of the lake; and renting a boat at either one of the two marinas. There’s plenty for everyone!
Smith Mountain Lake
Smith Mountain Lake is best known for its boating, fishing, camping, water sports, nature activities, and hiking trails. The best place to fish is from a jet ski because you can cover more territory this way. You can also get great views by going on a cruise with one of Smith Mountain Lake Tours’ yachts or catamarans. Adventure seekers should check out Bucks Bikes & Boat Rentals because they offer everything from small motorboats to stand up paddleboards to mountain bikes! Another fun thing that happens on Smith Mountain Lake is the Annual Fishing Rodeo, which is the largest family fishing tournament in Virginia. It takes place every June and there are other activities, food vendors, and live music to enjoy as well.
Buggs Island Lake
Buggs Island Lake lies partly in Virginia and partly in North Carolina. It’s best known for its peaceful setting along the Blue Ridge Mountains and its water sports, camping facilities, nature trails, restaurants, resorts & hotels, boat rentals and marinas (including a store where you can buy everything from fishing rods to bait), and lakeside cabins that offer beautiful mountain views. Some fun ways to spend your time at Buggs Island Lake kayaking or canoeing on the lake, hiking the nature trail, fishing off of a boat with friends, or enjoying one of Buggs Island’s many waterfront restaurants. Whether you’re looking to relax on vacation with your family or go out and have fun with your best buddies, Bugg’s Island Lake is the best place for you!
Smith Mountain Lake
Smith Mountain Lake is best known for its boating, fishing, camping, water sports, nature activities, and hiking trails. The best place to fish is from a jet ski because you can cover more territory this way. You can also get great views by going on a cruise with one of Smith Mountain Lake Tours’ yachts or catamarans. Adventure seekers should check out Bucks Bikes & Boat Rentals because they offer everything from small motorboats to standup paddleboards to mountain bikes! Another fun thing that happens on Smith Mountain Lake is the Annual Fishing Rodeo, which is the largest family fishing tournament in Virginia. It takes place every June and there are other activities, food vendors, and live music to enjoy as well.
If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or are coming in from out of state, there is no shortage of lakes in Virginia to explore. Virginia’s lakes offer an opportunity to relax with family and best buddies or the perfect setting for boating, fishing, camping, water sports like kayaking and canoeing on the lake (or renting one), nature activities like hiking trails and exploring caves, restaurants by waterfronts with great views everywhere you turn. Whether you want peace & quiet or action-packed fun all day long – Virginia’s lakes have it all!