Smith Mountain Lake is surrounded by mountains in southwestern Virginia and is the second largest body of freshwater in Virginia. The lake is 40 miles long and equals 20,600 acres with 500 miles of shoreline. It was originally formed by damming the Blackwater and Roanoke Rivers, a process that lasted from September 1963 through March 1966. The lake is still primarily used for hydroelectric power generation.
There are a number of activities available to children around the lake. You can change these activities to suit the age of the child, such as smaller hikes for smaller children. Camping is an option. Depending on your idea of a vacation, you can pitch a tent or stay in a cabin at the state park. The cabins are clean and cozy and kids love the rustic atmosphere. Another popular choice is swimming, which is permitted in designated areas of the lake.
Smith Mountain Lake is home to a diverse population of fish, such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, crappie, white perch, yellow perch, channel catfish, white catfish and flathead catfish. Your child will be delighted to find any one of these fish on the other end of their pole.
Another way to bond with the family is by having a picnic. Pack some food and go have a picnic on the beach by the lake. Kids love eating outside since it gives them time to run and play. If you prefer to be on the water, go boating. The lakefront hosts seven public boat launching sites, as well as a number of public marinas.
Nature lovers should explore the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail. This trail was created by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (DGIF) as a way for the public to view the diversity of species of plants, flowers and wildlife throughout various regions. According to DGIF, some of the wildlife you might find includes red bellied and downy woodpeckers, eastern phoebe, eastern kingbird, wild turkey, nesting osprey and a number of butterflies. There are a number of other animals, and you and your child can create a list of all the plants, animals and insects that you find.
Finally, there are also local family entertainment centers with miniature golf courses and arcade games.
An enjoyable family vacation requires being prepared. So pack your sunscreen and insect repellent. If you take your child boating, be sure to wear a flotation device. Be certain that all outside fires are in specially designated areas and check with fire regulations to see if any restrictions are in effect. Do not feed any wildlife you encounter, no matter how cute and fuzzy. This could not only endanger you but will result in the eventual demise of the animal. Once an animal is accustomed to humans, it is only a matter of time before a complaint is issued and the state is asked to destroy it. Watch, but do not touch or feed the wildlife.
