Posted January 16, 2015 | Updated August 20, 2018

Every season of the year is charming at Smith Mountain Lake State Park.

We think you will agree, that these are some of the things that make this Park of the Month a great destination all year round. Let's start with the least popular season at the lake.

Cabins allow access to beautiful sunsets year-round at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

WINTER

In winter, when the trees are mostly bare, a visitor to the park can observe things one might not see at other times of the year. Wildlife is abundant, both in and around the park and on the lake. Many varieties of waterfowl have been spotted on Smith Mountain Lake.

The fishing pier at Smith Mountain Lake State Park wearing its winter coat

A mallard contemplating the day on the lake

Winter is also a great time to kick back and relax in one of our cozy cabins, complete with wood stoves. Winter also brings the Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park Winter Lecture Series. The park is a quiet oasis.

The cabins at this park are the only ones in our state park system featuring rustic wood stoves

SPRING
The trees will be budding, wildflowers will be blooming, and Virginia state Parks’ campgrounds open the first weekend in March. Spring break is the perfect time to enjoy a visit to Smith Mountain Lake.

Campers count down the days to the opener the first of March

Dogwoods the official floral emblem of Virginia since 1918 bloom throughout the park in early Spring

There will be special activities the week before and after Easter. The park also hosts an annual Youth Fishing Clinic and Aspiring Anglers Tournament each year in June. Enjoy a guided hike, or you can explore the miles of trails on your own.

Also, in spring the ospreys return. You can watch them on their nest from the webcam in the park's visitor center.

This lake not only hosts bass tournaments but is a great place to catch striped bass

SUMMER
Summer means it's time to head for the beach.

The swimming beach is very popular in Summer with a full service snack bar and other amenities

Camping with s'mores over the campfire, wagon rides through the park, boating and lots of programs and activities for kids of all ages make summer a busy time of year. Also there is “Music in the Park” the fourth Saturday of each month, with bluegrass, cloggers, and concessions in the beach pavilion, sponsored by the Friends of SMLSP.

FALL
Fall color makes for spectacular views of the lake, with crisp temperatures it is a favorite time of the year for hikers and photographers.

Fall shows off its colors at Smith Mountain Lake State Park

While this park is not far from the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, there are also scenic highways and byways all around the park, whichever direction you travel.

To make overnight camping or cabin reservations at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, click here or call our Customer Service Center at 800-933 PARK (7275). To find fun park programs throughout the year, click here.

Whether you come for a day trip or a longer stay, Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a fun destination any time of year.

 

See Part 1 of this series "It's All Here at the Lake" which showcases the park's recreational opportunitues.

Posted January 16, 2015 | Updated August 20, 2018