This Lake Has Some Of Virginia's Bluest Water And Is An Outdoor Recreation Lover's Dream

Looking for waters as blue and calm as the sky? Lake Moomaw in Virginia's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains is calling. Located in a secluded corner of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest about two hours north of Roanoke by car, Lake Moomaw is part of a 2,530-acre outdoor recreation dreamland. It draws visitors with a unique color palette of crystal blue waters along a backdrop leafy hillsides dotted with wildflowers. 

Lake Moomaw, the second-largest impoundment in Western Virginia, was created from damming the Jackson river in the 1980s, a project envisioned since the outset of World War II.  What was once expected to be a major outdoor recreation destination for the East Coast largely remains a local secret. Unlike nearby Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Moomaw is a quiet, secluded retreat for outdoor recreation. Here, you can find peace on the water or the trail without major resorts, real estate, or tourism development. And since the entire area has been designated as a national forest, any development will be limited to preserve the land for future generations' use. 
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Lake Moomaw's opportunities to connect with the natural environment and see wildlife throughout the year, being just a stone's throw from the north end of the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the best road trips in the United States.

Lake Moomaw's habitat is a haven for local wildlife, including whitetail deer, turkeys, bald eagles, and other migratory birds. Nearby fields and woods provide habitat for numerous types of songbirds, including American goldfinches, eastern kingbirds, and indigo buntings. As you walk closer to the lake, you may also find other species of waterfowl including Canada geese and possibly a loon.

Lake Moomaw has four campgrounds and three boat ramps on all sides of the lake to make your trip seamless. One of these, the Coles Point Day Use Area, near the dam at the southeastern corner of the lake, charges a $5 vehicle access fee per vehicle, on the honor system. Coles Point is steps from the scenic Jackson River Scenic Trail and is a jumping-off point for the Fortney Loop Hiking Trail the Morris Hill bike trail, and fishing trips around Lake Moomaw. 

The serene, turquoise waters of Lake Moomaw are a haven for fishing due to a unique "two-story" fishery habitat. This supports both warm water fish (bass, crappie, sunfish, and catfish) near the surface, and trophy-sized brown and rainbow trout in the deeper waters. If you are looking for a deeper sense of peace and quiet, head to the Bolar Mountain Recreation Area on the other side. Bolar Mountain also has campsites, and a boat slip, as well as a beach touching the lake's clear waters. Note though that there is limited cellular service, making it easier to focus on your environment and not on your phone. Don't worry though, your dog is welcome, just be sure to dispose of any dog poop and leave no trace!

Each season at Lake Moomaw offers unforgettable experiences for you to connect with your natural environment. From January until July, be on the lookout for bald eagles nesting along the lakeshore. During the summer months, watch blue and green herons splash and soar along the lake's inlets as you play on or in the water. 

Cooler temperatures make the fall a perfect time to fish for both bass and trout. If throwing out a line is on part of your Lake Moomaw itinerary, local outfitters or guides can point you to a few honey holes and set you up with everything you need to bring in the catch of a lifetime! Moreover, at this time of year, the Appalachian Mountains transform from a green canopy to a gorgeous kaleidoscope of red, yellow, orange, and brown. If you're taking a regional road trip, a visit to Lake Moomaw ties in perfectly with visiting West Virginia's gorgeous Bluestone Turnpike, one of the best places to see the seasons change on the East Coast, located just a couple of hours away. And yes, the scenic route is faster!

No matter when you decide to go, following those country roads will take you home to where you belong — with your loved ones. Take time to rest and relax as you explore and relish the experience. Spend a few days relaxing at wineries dotting Virginia's Skyline Wine Trail, or explore the area's charming small towns, each with something to keep everyone in the car happy the whole way. Or, rest and recoup in nearby Hot Springs, Virginia, a relaxation spot of 24 former U.S. presidents and the home of America's first resort. And, regardless of where you're going, this packing list will make your trip stress and worry-free.