Smith Mountain Lake
Virginia's jewel. Over 500 miles of pristine shoreline, world-class fishing, and lake life 45 minutes from your door.
Virginia's Favorite Lake
Smith Mountain Lake is the second-largest body of freshwater in Virginia, sitting in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Bedford, Franklin, and Pittsylvania counties. Over a dozen luxury communities surround the lake's 500 miles of shoreline, making it one of the most popular vacation destinations in the state.
The lake is legendary for striper fishing, with trophy-class striped bass regularly exceeding 30 pounds. But fishing is just the start. Boating, wakeboarding, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and tubing keep the lake busy from spring through fall. Four championship golf courses line the shore, and the dining scene ranges from Caribbean-inspired lakeside bars to upscale country club restaurants.
From our property in Lynchburg, Smith Mountain Lake is about 45 minutes south. Close enough for a day trip, far enough that you get the mountain-and-lake combination that makes this part of Virginia special.
Quick Facts
On the Water
Fishing
Trophy-class striped bass regularly exceeding 30 pounds. Largemouth bass, smallmouth, crappie, and catfish year-round. Multiple fishing guides and tournaments throughout the season.
Boating & Watersports
Open channels and sheltered coves ideal for powerboating, water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. Kayak and paddleboard rentals available at multiple marinas.
Marinas
Bridgewater Marina, Halesford Harbour, Parkway Marina, Crystal Shores, and Pelican Point all offer boat rentals, slips, fuel, and supplies.
Swimming
Smith Mountain Lake State Park has a sandy public beach. Community beaches and private dock access throughout the lake's communities. Best from May through September.
Golf at the Lake
7,000-yard George Dillon PGA Championship course. Country club setting with lake views.
18-hole layout through hardwood forests with mountain vistas. Equestrian center on-site.
6,511-yard Russell Breeden design at Westlake. Scenic mountain and lake views throughout.
Robert Trent Jones Sr. 18-hole course. One of the most respected course designs in the region.
Dining at the Lake
Lakeside Dining
- Mango's Bar & Grill (Caribbean, live music)
- The Landing Restaurant (seafood)
- Bruno's at Mariners Landing
- Cafe del Lago (Mediterranean)
- The Pointe Dining Room (upscale)
Italian & Pizza
- Napoli by the Lake (wood-fired pizzas)
- Westlake Towne Center (multiple options)
Wineries & Breweries
- Hickory Hill Vineyards
- Ramulose Ridge Vineyards
- Devils Backbone Brewing (30 min)
Events & Festivals
- SML Wine Festival
- Chili Cook-Off
- Antique & Classic Boat Show
- SML Charity Home Tour
- Fourth of July Fireworks (lakeside)
- Holiday Flotillas (decorated boat parades)
- SML Pirate Days (summer, family)
- Seasonal Farmers Markets
Beyond the Water
Smith Mountain Lake State Park
1,500 acres with hiking trails, a sandy beach, campgrounds, and boat launch. The park sits on the north shore and is the best public access point for day visitors.
Nearby Day Trips
- National D-Day Memorial, Bedford (30 min)
- Roanoke Star & Mill Mountain (45 min)
- Peaks of Otter / Blue Ridge Parkway (30 min)
- Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest (30 min)
- Downtown Lynchburg (45 min)
- Appomattox Court House (45 min)
Family Activities
- Smith Mountain Lake Community Park (playgrounds, sports)
- Crazy Horse Marina (mini golf, arcade)
- Water's Edge Equestrian Center (trail rides, lessons)
- Community trails throughout 13 lakeside neighborhoods